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The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has issued a new directive prohibiting the use of the title "Doctor" by individuals awarded honorary doctorates in Uganda.
This move follows growing concern over the misuse of honorary degrees by recipients, particularly in professional and academic settings.
The NCHE emphasized that honorary degrees, awarded as a form of recognition for extraordinary contributions to society, cannot be used in a way that implies academic qualifications or professional standing.
In a statement issued on May 7, 2025, Professor Joy C. Kwesiga, NCHE Chairperson, clarified that these awards should not be used for academic, professional, or work-related purposes.
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"An honorary degree, also known as Honoris Causa, is not an academic award. It is a ceremonial recognition for significant contributions to society," Prof. Kwesiga said. "The holder of such a degree must not use the title 'Doctor' in any academic or professional context."
The statement further outlined that honorary degrees in Uganda can only be conferred by public universities, private chartered universities, and other degree-awarding institutions.
NCHE also reiterated that honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society, academia, or culture, and who have demonstrated leadership in their respective fields.
NCHE's guidelines make it clear that recipients of honorary doctorates must indicate their honorary status. For instance, instead of "Dr. Daniel Musheke," individuals should be referred to as "Daniel Musheke, LLD (Hon. Causa)," or "Daniel Musheke, DSc (Hon. Causa)."
"Members of the public, media, and academia should refrain from addressing recipients of honorary degrees as 'Doctor' in any formal or informal capacity," Prof. Kwesiga added. "We aim to protect the integrity of academic and professional qualifications."
NCHE’s directive comes in response to growing concerns over the increasing misuse of honorary titles, particularly by individuals with no formal academic qualifications. The Council has urged the public to be aware of these guidelines to avoid confusion and embarrassment.
This move seeks to ensure the proper use of honorary degrees and to maintain the distinction between academic titles and those awarded for societal contributions.
Some prominent Ugandans with honorary degrees include Ministers Balaam Barugahara and Lilian Aber, and businessman Sudhir Ruparelia