By KUNA,
London : Former South African President Nelson Mandela has accepted a unique honorary doctorate from Queen’s University, in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the University said Tuesday.
Mandela will formally become the University’s “Centenary Honorary Graduate” at a ceremony tonight.
The former South African President, who was in London for his 90th birthday celebration concert in Hyde Park last Friday, is not able to attend the ceremony, but recorded a message to be played at the event.
The Nobel Peace Prize winner, who led the struggle against apartheid, receives his doctorate for distinction in public service.
In his citation, Queen’s Chancellor, Senator George Mitchell, described Mandela as “an inspirational figure.” His degree is being conferred at a special ceremony taking place during the University’s summer graduation dinner tonight.
Mandela received a copy of his degree document a few days ago from newspaper magnate Sir Anthony O’Reilly and recorded a special message to be relayed to the audience at the ceremony.
Sir Anthony, who holds an honorary doctorate from Queen’s and is a close friend of the former President, said “It was a real honour for me to hand over the parchment (document) on behalf of the University.” “Nelson Mandela is an exceptional human being. He has been honoured around the world, but he told me that this award was very precious to him.” “He is a great friend of Northern Ireland and he is proud of the role South Africa played in supporting the peace process here,” he added.
Last May, the University honoured former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former Irish Premier Bertie Ahern with special degrees for their efforts to bring peace to Northern Ireland.
The ceremony took place during an international peace conference at the University.