Nelson Mandela University has vehemently refuted claims that it will be awarding renowned jazz artist Sizwe Zako an honorary doctorate.
According to the Eastern Cape-based tertiary institution’s media manager, Zandile Ngwendu, the university’s autumn graduation season has already concluded, and therefore, no graduation ceremonies will be taking place in May.
Zako not among recipients
“We would like to clarify that our autumn graduation season concluded on 24 April 2025. And no further graduation ceremonies are scheduled for May,” said Mgwendu.
She also highlighted that the university conferred four honorary doctorates during the autumn graduation season. Zako was not one of the recipients, she said.
Mgwendu’s rebuttal comes after Zako’s management team issued a statement stating that Zako will be honoured with a doctorate by the academic institution.
The statement reads in part: “Ahead of the June event, Zako will be formally honoured by Nelson Mandela University, where he will receive an honorary doctorate on 23 May 2025, a fitting recognition for a life dedicated to uplifting others through music.”
Zako’s team admits ‘error’
However, on Friday Zako’s PR team told Sunday World that there was a confusion from their side.
Ayanda Ngema, the communications and marketing manager, has since apologised for the confusion.
“I would like to sincerely apologise for the confusion and inconvenience caused regarding the recent press release. It was never my intention to mislead or miscommunicate any details. The information we initially received was unfortunately incorrect. And by the time we were alerted to the error, the release had already been shared with you.
“I truly appreciate your efforts and time. And I understand your frustration, especially with the urgency and deadlines you were working under.
“I take full responsibility for the miscommunication, and on behalf of the team, I deeply apologise. We are working internally to ensure a better and more accurate information flow going forward,” said Ngema.
