Tuks honorary doctorate for WHO chief

The University of Pretoria (UP) has awarded Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus an honorary doctorate on Friday, in recognition of his outstanding contributions as a global health expert, scholar, advocate and diplomat.

“It is a privilege for the University of Pretoria to honour such an outstanding health leader for his many and significant contributions, which span three decades,” said dean of the faculty of health sciences professor Tiaan de Jager of Ghebreyesus, who holds a Bachelor of Biology, Master of Science in Immunology of Infectious Diseases, PhD in Community Health and an honorary fellowship from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

“Ghebreyesus’ notable achievements in global health leadership, particularly in the areas of malaria, HIV/Aids, maternal and child health, have been immensely impactful,” De Jager said.

“His enormous contributions globally in the fields of public health and epidemiology as a scientist, global health expert, diplomat and advocate, together with his innovative, bold dynamism to reshape global public health, have been unmatched.”

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The WHO chief is regarded as a health scholar with first-hand experience in research, particularly in the field of malaria, and has published numerous articles in prominent scientific journals on a range of global health topics.

Ghebreyesus, who was born in Asmara (now part of Eritrea), held high-ranking positions in healthcare before his election in 2017 as director-general of the WHO – an appointment that saw him become the first African to lead the global public health agency.

As health minister of Ethiopia (2005-2012), he invested in health infrastructure and the workforce, giving millions access to healthcare.