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Coventry University awards honorary doctorate to Rector of Stellenbosch University
Professor Wim de Villiers, Professor Deresh Ramjugernath and Professor John Latham
University news
Monday 27 July 2026
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Coventry University has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education to Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University.
The award recognises his outstanding leadership in higher education, pioneering research contributions and commitment to fostering innovation and international collaboration that aligns with Coventry University’s mission to deliver globally connected, impactful education.
The oration during the ceremony today was read by his predecessor Wim de Villiers.
What stands out most is Deresh’s commitment to collaboration and connection. He has brought people and institutions together across countries and disciplines, building partnerships that support shared progress and meaningful impact.
Professor Wim de Villiers
A chemical engineer and internationally respected higher education leader, Professor Ramjugernath has supervised more than 90 Master’s students, more than 50 PhD candidates and more than 20 postdoctoral researchers, supporting emerging academics and innovators who are now contributing across academia and industry.
Professor Ramjugernath’s leadership journey has seen him hold several senior positions in South African higher education. Before becoming Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University, he held the position of Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching at Stellenbosch University from 2021 to 2025 and played a key role in advancing research, innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
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. Starting off at the junior ranks as a researcher and a lecturer, and then working my way over the last 30 years into senior leadership and management of the university and in terms of building strategic relationships and partnerships, one of which is with Coventry University.
Congratulations to all of the graduates of Coventry University - absolutely fantastic on your achievements in terms of graduating today. For this journey that you're on, just remember you've got to have passion and the purpose about what you want to achieve and then it's all about excellence and perseverance in terms of ensuring that you achieve all that you have in your life goals.
Professor Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University
This year saw Coventry University celebrate a decade of collaboration with Stellenbosch University, a relationship which has created opportunities for students and researchers across both institutions, with one of its most significant achievements being the collaborative dual degree programme.
At Coventry University we believe in the power of global partnerships to deliver education and research that makes a difference. Professor Ramjugernath’s leadership and vision embody this ambition.
His dedication to collaboration, innovation and supporting the next generation of researchers has made a profound impact and we are proud to recognise his contribution with this honorary doctorate.
Professor John Latham CBE, Coventry University Vice-Chancellor and Group CEO
Find out more about Coventry University’s graduation ceremonies.
