Naledi Pandor and Adila Hassim were among the seven distinguished figures honoured by UWC with honorary doctorates.
It was a night of celebration and glamour as the University of the Western Cape (UWC) honoured seven remarkable figures with honorary doctorates.
The special ceremony took place on Friday, 28 August 2026, bringing together family members, dignitaries, students and academics to celebrate the recipients and their contributions to society.
Among the prominent honourees were former International Relations Minister Dr Grace Naledi Pandor and Advocate Adila Hassim, who represented South Africa in its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
They were joined by former Ireland’s president Mary Robinson, United Nations human rights expert Francesca Albanese, Professor Emeritus Loyiso Nongxa, and the late Charlotte Mannya Maxeke and Mandisa Monakali, who were honoured posthumously.
Pandor, one of South Africa’s accomplished educators, parliamentarians and diplomats, said the honorary doctorate carried particular meaning because of UWC’s history.
“The moment I received the call, the thought was about the historic character of the University of the Western Cape and its contribution to our struggle for freedom,” Pandor said.
“But also the role it has played post-apartheid and the continuing interest in building our society.”
Pandor said she felt privileged to be associated with the university and its history.
“And I thought: ‘Wow, what an honour to be associated with an institution that has all these characteristics’. I feel very, very privileged, and I was so thrilled to be nominated. Thank you,” she added.
The honour comes during another significant chapter in Pandor’s career.
In April 2026, she officially took up the role of Chancellor at Nelson Mandela University. She began the position on 1 April and was formally installed during a ceremony on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
Hassim said she was “completely overwhelmed” and “taken by surprise” when she was contacted by UWC about the honorary doctorate.
“I’m still as overwhelmed,” said Hassim.
“It’s really very special coming from UWC. The values of UWC resonate with me, and so it’s a very special honour indeed. I’m very thankful.”
Hassim currently serves as an evidence leader for the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating allegations of corruption, criminality and political interference in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
UWC Rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Robert Balfour reminded guests that the university confers few honorary degrees and does so with care.
“Our honorary graduates include figures closely connected to South Africa’s struggle for democracy. Among them are Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Albertina Sisulu and Albie Sachs. An honorary degree from this university has therefore long expressed solidarity, as well as inspired admiration,” said Prof Balfour.
“The people we honour this year have each made an exceptional contribution. Advocate Adila Hassim and Dr Naledi Pandor have advanced South Africa’s engagement with international law.
“Ms Mary Robinson and Ms Francesca Albanese have kept the world’s attention on human rights and accountability.
“The late Ms Charlotte Maxeke and Ms Mandisa Monakali devoted their lives to the education and protection of women and children.
“Professor Emeritus Loyiso Nongxa widened access to the mathematical sciences and to leadership in higher education.”
Each recipient received a standing ovation during the special ceremony, which celebrated their individual contributions and the values they continue to represent.
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