Nigerian author receives honorary degree from University of Edinburgh

kehinde omotosho

August 29, 2017 2:00 PM

In recognition of her achievements as an author and public intellectual, Adichie was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters at the University of Edinburgh.

Acclaimed Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has been awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Letters at the University of Edinburgh.

Adichie was awarded by the university’s Principal and Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Timothy O’Shea, “in recognition of Ms Adichie’s achievements as an author and public intellectual," at the University’s recently redeveloped St Cecilia’s Hall - Scotland’s oldest concert hall.

Following the presentation, Ms Adichie was interviewed about her work and ideas by the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon at an event at Edinburgh International Book Festival in association with the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University.

Adichie who was honoured to be a recipient of the degree said "It is lovely to be in this place, which is hallowed. I feel very fortunate to be included among the people who have been honoured with a degree from this University."

Speaking about why Adichie was proposed to receive the award, the Director of the Centre of African Studies, Dr Barbara Bompani said, "Through her writing, her advocacy, and her public engagement, she inspires all of us to better understand our own, and other peoples’ stories."

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is as one of the world’s most prominent contemporary writers. She is the author of four award winning novels, Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah and Dear Ijeawele.

kehinde omotosho