Makerere University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Umar Kakumba, expressed his views on the use of the title “doctor” by honorary doctorate holders. He emphasized that this title should primarily be reserved for individuals who have earned a PhD through rigorous academic work.
Honorary doctorate degrees are granted by educational institutions to recognize individuals for their contributions to society, irrespective of their academic background. They are not the result of a formal academic journey.
During the 27th Annual International Management Conference of Makerere University Business School in Kampala, Prof. Kakumba stressed the importance of distinguishing between those with academic PhDs and those with honorary doctorates. He stated, “A PhD is a highly respected academic achievement worldwide. Nowadays, we see people referring to themselves as ‘Doctor,’ even those who pay fees ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 in certain North and Latin American colleges to receive honorific titles. Unfortunately, they may not fully understand the distinction. They use ‘Doctor’ followed by their name and then add ‘PhD’ in parentheses, even when they have received an honorary degree. We should educate them about the difference.”
Prof. Kakumba further pointed out that Makerere University, with its long history of over a century, holds the moral authority to inform the public about these distinctions and ensure that due credit is given to individuals who have academically earned the title of “Doctor of Philosophy.”
