What are the benefits of an honorary degree to a celebrity?

On May 10, 2016 Nigerian music legend

2face who was excited that he is going to be bestowed with this honour took to his Instagram page to write “Ladies and gentlemen! I’m plsd 2 let u know that I’m going 2 be Conferred with an honorary degree @ Igbinedion University on the 10th of may in okada,” the ‘African Queen’ singer said, adding, “U are all invited. #GRATEFUL#igbinedionuniversity Thank u for the honour.”

Personally I have always wondered the benefit of having a honorary degree from an educational institution is What does it mean if a celebrity is now a Doctor of Social Sciences? What benefit does a celebrity get from having a honorary degree?

Well after much research I found out that there are no real benefits of getting a honorary degree. When a university awards a honorary degree to a celebrity it means that institution recognizes his efforts within his chosen field.

For 2face Idibia, Igbinedion University recognizes his achievements and contribution to the music industry in Nigeria. This is why the university is giving him a honorary degree. A lifetime achievement award or special recognition is the same as a honorary degree. It’s a celebratory mark of one's efforts. Also people with honorary degrees are not regarded as highly as people who studied for these degrees. They are basically for decorative purposes.

For universities, the purpose for handing out honorary degrees is for association and publicity. By giving out these degrees the university is mentioned in the press and thereby gets free publicity which down the line attracts more people to the school. Also aligning itself with a popular person or celebrity, a university attracts more donors.

Abroad, universities take donations seriously because it is a major source for funds. By giving out honorary degrees to famous people donors are attracted to donate to the school.

While honorary degrees has had its fair share of criticism over the years, many higher institutions are continuing the tradition. It is beneficial to both celebrities and universities, so why stop?

Watch 2Face Idibia's 'Coded tinz' music video below.