In recognition of his outstanding philanthropic work and contributions across multiple fields, a Ghanaian rapper based in the UK Michael Ebenezer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr, known as Stormzy, has been nominated to receive an honorary degree from the University of Cambridge.
The artist is expected to be awarded a Doctorate in Law by the prestigious institution.
According to a statement published on the university’s official website, the honour is being bestowed “in recognition of his philanthropic endeavours and influence in education, music, sport, and literature.”
Stormzy has been a vocal advocate for educational equity, particularly for Black students in the UK.
In 2018, he established the Stormzy Scholarship, which funds two Black British students annually at Cambridge, covering both tuition fees and maintenance costs.
In 2021, the initiative was significantly scaled up when HSBC UK joined the effort, committing to support an additional 10 students per year.
To date, the Stormzy Scholarship has benefited 55 students, with the university announcing that the largest cohort yet will graduate this year.
Cambridge University noted that the “Stormzy effect” has played a meaningful role in encouraging more Black students across the UK to apply to the university.
Stormzy, along with seven other nominees, has accepted the University Council’s recommendation for the honorary degrees. The final approval rests with the Regent House, the university’s governing body.
The honourees are expected to be officially awarded their degrees during a special congregation at the Senate House on 25 June.
The ceremony will be presided over by Cambridge Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice and will be attended by university staff, students, alumni, and specially invited guests.
