Director-General of World Trade Organisation awarded honorary doctorate by University of Bolton

The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Bolton to a rapturous reception from students and their families.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and the first African to assume the role, was made a Doctor of Business Administration for her outstanding contribution to global economics and diplomacy.

She received her honorary degree from University of Bolton Pro Chancellor Rasha Said at the graduation ceremony in Bolton’s grand Albert Halls on Thursday.

Earlier, on behalf of the WTO, Dr Okonjo-Iweala had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Bolton to work in partnership

Dr Okonjo-Iweala has held pivotal positions, including Senior Advisor at Lazard and Chair of the Board of Gavi.

She was Nigeria’s first female and longest-serving Finance Minister, as well as the country’s first female Foreign Minister.

She said: “It’s a real pleasure to sign this Memorandum of Understanding today.

“We are really keen at the WTO to see how artificial intelligence and the digital economy can create opportunities in trade and this is why as the World Trade Organisation we think it will be opportune to sign an agreement with the University of Bolton to create a special programme in AI, so that together we can train our staff what opportunities in reducing costs, supply chain costs for instances, creating opportunities to make trade less expensive and more inclusive.”

Dr Okonjo-Iweala told the audience: “The University has a strong commitment to its local community and plays a crucial role in providing opportunities for lifelong learning and community enrichment.

“The University of Bolton prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to students from all backgrounds. It is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all, fostering a diverse academic community.

“In receiving this honorary doctorate I am reminded of the importance of education and the role it plays in shaping our lives.

“My father taught me, never take education for granted, it is a privilege not a right.”

She added: “I wish each of you the very best, most of you have fought hard to be here. Use your education, every ounce of it. See it as a responsibility to help not just yourselves but to help others.”

Students from the University’s Greater Manchester Business School and the School of Law received degrees throughout the day in Bolton Town Hall.

Before conferring degrees, Ms Said told the congregation: “To the class of 2024 – congratulations. We are so proud of your achievements, which are a testament to all your hard work and dedication. I know that your loved ones will be hugely proud.”

Other honorary degree recipients included:

Judith Bromley – Doctor of Laws Judith is the Chair of Bolton Hospice and celebrates her 37th year as a practising solicitor in 2024. When she joined Russell and Russell Solicitors, Judith became the firm's first female solicitor to achieve a full equity partnership. She pioneered a new area of law dedicated to supporting older individuals, focusing on issues of capacity and end-of-life legal matters. Judith is also a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester.

Kenan Poleo – Doctor of Letters Kenan is His Majesty’s Consul General in Istanbul and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. As Head of Mission in Istanbul, he oversees one of the largest British diplomatic interventions in Europe’s largest city. Kenan also previously served as Regional Director for the UK Science and Innovation Network and Head of Global at Innovate UK.

Raj Nambiar – Doctor of Education Raj brings over 25 years of international academic experience to his role as Director of the University of Bolton Academic Centre in Ras Al Khaimah. He is committed to innovation in higher education, playing a crucial role in establishing transnational partnerships and developing greenfield campuses. Scores of students from diverse backgrounds have received a top-tier educational experience under his leadership.

Guy Kioni – Doctor of Business Administration Guy is a prominent geostrategy advisor and digital transformation expert with an international and diverse career. Coming to the UK as a conflict-displaced refugee in 2002, Guy’s experience instilled deep resilience and a commitment to driving meaningful change. After earning a first class BSc in Business Information Systems, Guy created 12 Ounces, a digital transformation consultancy firm that has saved the NHS millions of pounds. He then founded Missang Ltd UK, a consultancy firm that specialises in geostrategic advisory services and digital transformation.