What does Rassie Erasmus' honorary doctorate mean?
51-year-old Johan ‘Rassie’ Erasmus was awarded this honour by North-West University.
Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, and head coach, Rassie Erasmus, pose with the Webb Ellis trophy following the capping ceremony where Erasmus was with an honorary doctorate in coaching from the North West University on 2 May 2024. Picture: @Springboks/X
John Perlman interviews Bettine Van Vuuren, Registrar for the University of Johannesburg.
Listen below.
Over the recent months, Rassie Erasmus has encountered a series of triumphs and accomplishments.
Firstly, he led the Springboks to triumph in the 2023 Rugby World Cup and now, he has ascended to greater echelons in his career by being formally awarded with an honorary doctorate.
51-year-old Johan ‘Rassie’ Erasmus was awarded this honour by North-West University, being recognised for his “innovative and exceptional management” of the Springboks, his high standing in the international rugby coaching arena and his strong drive and focus on diversity and inclusion.
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So, what exactly constitutes an honorary doctorate?
Van Vuuren explains that it's the pinnacle recognition a university can grant an individual.
Despite the title change to "Doctor," she clarifies that it doesn't imply the recipient becomes an academic.
Usually, a specialised committee, comprising members from the council and senate, evaluates nominations, focusing on exceptional contributions that surpass typical leadership attributes.
"It's not a working title, it really is an honorary title."
- Bettine Van Vuuren, Registrar – University of Johannesburg
"We're looking for paradigm shifts."
- Bettine Van Vuuren, Registrar – University of Johannesburg
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