The University of Glasgow conferred an honorary degree on Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda.

At a ceremony in Bute Hall, the President received a Doctor of Laws in recognition of the role he has played in the development of his country.

After receiving the degree. President Kagame delivered a lecture on education challenges facing Rwanda and the continent of Africa.

He was been invited to speak by the University’s Centre for International Development.

Sir Muir Russell, Principal of the University of Glasgow, said: “Paul Kagame is the central figure in the rebirth of Rwanda and he is one of the most impressive leaders in Africa. He preaches a doctrine of security, guided reconciliation, anti-corruption, and above all a drive toward self-reliance that he hopes will free his country from its heavy dependence on foreign aid.

“I am delighted that he chose to speak at our university and has accepted our offer of an honorary degree.”
 
Professor Peter Holmes, Chair of the University’s Centre for International Development said: “The presidency of Paul Kagame has been characterised by major reforms and very significant progress through a commitment to democracy, women’s rights, the ending of the death sentence, the development of close diplomatic relations with Britain and economic development.
 
“After the genocide of 1994, Rwanda seemed likely to become either a dictatorship or a failed state torn apart by ethnic warlords. Instead, it is stable and full of ambition.   The central figure in its transition, President Paul Kagame, has emerged as one of the most impressive leaders in Africa.

“There have been growing connections between Rwanda and Scotland and particularly in higher education. The President of Rwanda makes regular visits to Britain and was keen to have an opportunity to speak in Scotland on the role of higher education and information technology in the development of Rwanda.

“The University of Glasgow was pleased to offer to host this event which accorded well with our growing activities in international development and it’s Centre for International Development.

“Part of the Centre’s remit is to build on and strengthen links between Scotland and low income countries and an ideal way to do that is to host a visit from one of Africa’s most important democratically elected leaders.”

First published: 6 November 2007