The America’s Duke University has yesterday conferred honorary doctorate degree on President of African Development Bank Group President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina.
The award was conferred on him with four other recipients yesterday 9th May, 2022 during its 2022 Commencement ceremonies in Durham, North Carolina.
The honorees were African Development Bank Group President and World Food Prize recipient Dr. Akinwumi Adesina; rocket scientist, businesswoman and former non-profit leader Sylvia Acevedo, who currently serves on the board of Qualcomm, a global leader in
semiconductors and wireless technology;
Patrick Brown, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Impossible Foods, a leading producer of meat and dairy products from plants; and Tom Catena, the medical director and sole surgeon at Mother of Mercy Hospital in the Nuba Mountains of central Sudan.
Adesina, a Nigerian former Minister of Agriculture received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in recognition of his career achievements in agriculture, and the innovative High 5 development priorities for Africa, which he conceived shortly after his election as President of the continent’s premier development finance institution in 2015.
The university’s academic council unanimously recommended Adesina as a recipient. Duke University President
Vincent E. Price said of Adesina:
“Yours has been a truly extraordinary career-you have fought to eradicate poverty and improve living conditions in Africa, and
your bravery and commitment have inspired countless people around thee globe.
“I know that your example will also
inspire our graduates to careers of equal
purpose and principle.”
While responding to the honour, Adesina said he felt deeply humbled by
Duke University’s recognition.
“To be awarded an honorary degree is always a privilege beyond measure. I regard this recognition as a reward for all who work tirelessly to accelerate Africa’s development and to ensure millions of Africans thrive and reach their fullest potential.”
Dr Akinwumi Adesina is a Nigerian economist who is currently serving as the President of the African Development Bank.
