Coventry University has today conferred an Honorary Doctor of Education on Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, the Rector and Vice‑Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, recognising his leadership in higher education, research and international collaboration.
Recognition for collaboration and supervision
The award highlights Professor Ramjugernath’s work in building institutional partnerships and supporting the next generation of academics. The university’s oration was read by his predecessor, Wim de Villiers, who emphasised the recipient’s commitment to bringing people and institutions together across borders and disciplines.
"It was an absolute privilege and honour to be receiving the award. I have had a journey in higher education over the last 30 years."
Professor Ramjugernath, a chemical engineer by training, has an extensive record of postgraduate supervision. According to the university, his supervisory record includes:
- More than 90 Master’s students
- Over 50 PhD candidates
- More than 20 postdoctoral researchers
These figures underline his role in mentoring emerging researchers who have gone on to work in both academia and industry.
Senior roles and strategic partnerships
Before assuming the top role at Stellenbosch, Professor Ramjugernath served as Deputy Vice‑Chancellor: Learning and Teaching at Stellenbosch from 2021 to 2025 and held senior roles aimed at advancing research, innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of KwaZulu‑Natal. Coventry University’s statement also notes an ongoing strategic relationship between the two institutions.
| Area | Detail |
|---|---|
| Award | Honorary Doctor of Education |
| Recipient | Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector & Vice‑Chancellor, Stellenbosch University |
| Oration read by | Wim de Villiers (predecessor) |
Local and international impact
Honouring a senior figure from South Africa underscores Coventry University’s focus on global engagement and partnership. For students and staff in Coventry, such links can mean enhanced opportunities for collaborative research, exchanges and joint projects that bring overseas perspectives to local teaching and innovation.
At the ceremony, Professor Ramjugernath reflected on his three‑decade career in higher education and the importance of purpose and passion in academic life. He also congratulated Coventry’s graduates present at the event.
The award is part of a broader pattern of universities recognising international leaders who strengthen cross‑institutional ties and contribute to global research networks. For Coventry, which positions itself as connected internationally, the honour signals a continued emphasis on partnership and the development of research capacity both locally and overseas.
