Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa to receive honorary doctorate

Doctor Who Star Ncuti Gatwa Honored with Honorary Degree

The University of Glasgow is set to bestow honorary degrees upon several notable figures later this year. Among them is Ncuti Gatwa, who portrayed the Doctor in the long-running science fiction series for two seasons, and Stuart Murdoch, the frontman of Belle & Sebastian since the 1990s. These accolades will be presented during a ceremony in June, alongside other distinguished individuals.

Additional honorees include BBC journalist Sarah Smith and her younger sibling, Baroness Catherine Smith, who serves as the Advocate General for Scotland. The university highlighted that recipients were chosen for their “profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society.” This year’s ceremonies will also feature musicians Deacon Blue and Eddi Reader, with the first honorary degrees awarded at a special Commemoration Day event on Wednesday, 17 June.

A Historic Milestone

The Commemoration Day marks the 575th anniversary of the University’s establishment in 1451. Gatwa, who recently concluded his role in the hit series, will be granted a Doctor of the University. Sarah Smith, BBC’s North America editor, will also receive the same honor. Baroness Catherine Smith, a graduate of the University of Glasgow with a history degree, will be honored as well. Meanwhile, Glasgow’s Lord Provost, Jacqueline McLaren, will be conferred a Doctor of the University.

Stuart Murdoch will be awarded a Doctor of Music, while Professor Guido Tabellini, head of the political economics chair at Bocconi University, will earn a Doctor of Letters. Dr. Stuart Campbell, an emeritus professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at King’s College London, will receive a Doctor of Science. The university’s principal and vice chancellor, Prof. Andy Schofield, emphasized the significance of the event:

“Commemoration Day allows us to reflect on our remarkable history. Honorary degrees give us the opportunity to recognize individuals whose achievements have had a profound and positive impact within their professions and wider society. Their work embodies values that continue to inspire our community. I am delighted to welcome our honorary graduates into the University of Glasgow community at such a significant milestone, and to celebrate them alongside our graduating students.”