By Khanyisa Khenese and Nosiphiwo Nyangana
Well-known South African Anglican cleric, theologian, social and climate justice and education activist Archbishop Thabo Makgoba was among eminent individuals awarded honorary doctorates by Rhodes University last week. Makgoba is currently serving as the South African Anglican Archbishop of South Africa in Cape Town.
The university honoured Makgoba with an honorary doctorate in Law (LLD) (Honoris causa), acknowledging his notable role as a voice of reason and a conscience of society where he has been a steadfast advocate against corruption and the abuse of power, as well as his unwavering commitment to justice in South Africa and ethical leadership.
Makgoba is also a former bishop in Makhanda and played a leading role in discussions regarding the Anglican Church’s stance on homosexuality, advocating for the church to give pastoral guidelines for homosexual couples in covenanted partnerships. Makgoba fought for inclusivity within the church and fought against violence.
Makgoba holds a PhD in Business Administration from the University of Cape Town. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the Allan Gray School for Values at UG and a former chancellor of the University of Western Cape. Moreover, Makgoba is a founder of The Archbishop Thabo Makgoba Development Trust (ATMDT).
“It goes without saying that it is a great honour to receive this honorary degree from Rhodes, especially in the company of the other distinguished recipients at this week’s ceremonies. My heartfelt thanks to the university for the privilege of being admitted into the halls of this institution,” said Makgoba.
He further stated that he enjoyed and appreciated the years he spent in Makhanda. “This is a place that I love for the college, our schools, DSG and St Andrew’s, the Diocesan offices and Cathedral, my in-laws’ house in York Street, and this fine university. As the psalmist says, ‘I wept joy’.”
