The UK rapper, real name Michael Owuo Jr, was given the honour for his “remarkable contribution to society and extraordinary talent,” the university said, Professor Lisa Roberts, University of Essex’s Vice-Chancellor added that he is “an outstanding musician and wordsmith [who] inspires people to speak openly about their beliefs and fight for their rights”.
Stormzy has been given an honorary degree by the University of Exeter. Stormzy gave a speech when receiving the honour, and praised the graduating class for having “the guts and the grit and the dedication that it takes to study for years and to finish your degree”.
Reflecting on his own time in education, he added:
“I got my AS results in my first year of college and said, ‘Yeah, see you later’. I didn’t have the same minerals that you guys have. A year later I took another swing at my A levels at a different college… until I sat down for my English exam in January and walked out after 10 minutes.”So from the bottom of my heart, I say congratulations, well done and you should all be so proud of yourselves, what you have achieved is incredible. Don’t let anybody downplay it and don’t let anybody undermine it. If you are sat in this room today you are worthy and you are brilliant.
“Due to his “great achievement in the sphere of higher education, philanthropy, and extending participation,” Stormzy was given the title of honorary graduate.
Watch speech video……