Top Russian university honours First Lady with doctorate degree
RUSSIAN State University for the Humanities yesterday conferred an honorary doctorate degree in Philosophy (Honoris Causa) on First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa in recognition of her philanthropic work that has changed the lives of many Zimbabweans for the better at a colourful ceremony in Moscow.
This becomes the third university to honour Dr Mnangagwa this year alone after GD Goenka University of India, which awarded her a Doctor of Philosophy Degree, and Vernadsky Crimean Federal University of Russia which gave her a gold medal in recognition of her contribution to the edu
cation sector in Zimbabwe through her Angel of Hope Foundation.
The First Lady looked radiant in her academic regalia, a black gown with a blue hood, showing the lofty heights one can scale in life through dedication and commitment.
Mechanic Manyeruke’s song “Makorokoto” was played, sending academics and other guests onto the dance floor.
A video showing Dr Mnangagwa’s works was shown and the university authorities were touched by her hardwork and hands-on approach and implored Russians to emulate her.
Russian State University’s Vice Chancellor Professor Doctor Alexander Bezborodov gave a glowing
citation of Dr Mnangagwa, describing her as a unique person.
“Her Excellency is a unique person who has ventured in social work that has changed lives of many Zimbabweans for the better. We are very privileged to host her today please take heed and be guided accordingly.
“She also works in health and education fraternity promoting health and child care services. Here in Russia we have many Zimbabwean students on scholarships courtesy of the First Lady through her Angel of Hope Foundation.
“Recently, representatives from Russian universities visited Zimbabwe where they witnessed her launching a special project of providing scholar
ships to the less privileged students. Dr Mnangagwa also facilitated collaborations between Russia universities and Zimbabwean universities.
“Zimbabwe is under economic sanctions for many years and this hinders progress and development, but we bow our heads to the First Lady for her great works which are helping the people,” he said in his citation.
The First Lady, Prof Dr Bezborodov said, actively works with every social group in Zimbabwe and all those in need.
“She is touching and elevating every group. We are hereby thrilled to confer her with this honorary doctorate,” he said.
This dovetailed with the remarks
of Deputy Minister for Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Mrs Natalya Bocharova, who extended a hearty welcome to the First Lady and her delegation.
“I want to say that we have a unique guest today. She is unique not only in Zimbabwe but the entire Africa and the planet. She formed her Angel of Hope Foundation and supports underprivileged communities.
“She helps women and children in dire situations and this is her gift she has. We are proud to have her here today and it is an honour and privilege to meet and interact with her. We are immensely grateful for the idea of conferring her with this doctorate.” ◆