“It’s really humbling to be part of today’s ceremony – not just because of the amazing people I’ve stood alongside today, but because just a few months ago I sat in the same space and watched as Oxford awarded a posthumous MPhil to Mākereti Papakura. which was so incredibly special.“
Papakura, a Māori scholar, was thought to be the first indigenous woman to study at Oxford, attending from 1927 and researching the customs of the Te Arawa people from a female perspective.
Oxford’s vice chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey, said Wednesday’s ceremony was a chance to celebrate and reflect on individuals’ impact on the world through their “dedication and vision”.
“This year, our nine honorands have each reached the highest levels of achievement in their respective fields, advancing knowledge, shaping society, inspiring audiences and improving lives.
“Their contributions exemplify the power of ideas and creativity to make an enduring difference, and we are proud to honour and welcome them into the Oxford family.’
Dame Jacinda Ardern (far right) received an honorary degree from Oxford University on Wednesday, alongside eight other individuals who have had an “extraordinary” impact in their fields. Photo / John Cairns
Degrees were also awarded to Nobel Prize-winning economics professor Daron Acemoğlu, Birmingham Royal Ballet director Carlos Acosta, actress and theatre director Adjoa Andoh, literary critic Henry Louis Gates Jr, biochemist Katalin Karikó, electronics engineer and inventor Shuji Nakamura and former GSK CEO Dame Emma Walmsley.
The university’s website says honorary degrees are “the most prestigious awards the university can confer” and are only bestowed sparingly.
Previous honorands include Nelson Mandela and Dame Judi Dench.