Allexer Namundjembo
Namibia has seen a growing trend of awarding honorary doctorates to sitting politicians and high-ranking officials.
While intended to recognise public service, we must ask: are we equating political office with academic achievement?
Honorary degrees should celebrate exceptional contributions to society or scholarship. When they are routinely given to presidents or ministers without evident academic work, the value of higher education risks being diluted.
Sociologist Pierre Bourdieu reminds us: “Education is not just about knowledge. It is a means of establishing legitimacy and authority. When credentials are given without the corresponding effort, the social value of education is undermined.”
Reggae legend Bob Marley also said, “Don’t gain the world and lose your soul. Wisdom is more precious than gold.” These words resonate when public recognition favours title over substance.
Other governments, like Kenya, have moved away from awarding honorary PhDs to politicians to maintain the integrity of academic accolades. Globally, universities are scrutinising such awards to ensure they reflect genuine merit rather than political expediency.
The question remains: does Namibia’s trend inspire citizens to value education, or does it create cynicism by implying leadership alone warrants academic honours? Countries like the UK, US, and South Africa restrict honorary degrees to individuals with indisputable contributions, reinforcing the prestige of these awards.
If Namibia wants to cultivate a culture that values education, research, and innovation, the criteria for honorary PhDs must reflect true achievement. Leadership alone should not automatically confer academic recognition.
True leaders inspire through vision, service, and the pursuit of knowledge, not ceremonial degrees. Let us ensure that our academic honours retain their value and continue to motivate meaningful contributions to society.
*Namundjembo is a linguist with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Linguistics. He is currently an Honours student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust). The views expressed in this opinion piece are his own.
