Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) president and chief executive, has received an Honorary Doctorate in Medical Sciences by the University of Glasgow, Scotland, in recognition of his outstanding scientific contributions and global leadership in health research, reports Cape Times.
The honorary degree was conferred during the university’s Commemoration Day celebrations, marking its 575th anniversary, with Ntusi describing the recognition as “deeply humbling”.
“To be recognised by one of the world’s oldest and most distinguished universities, whose history spans nearly six centuries and whose contributions have shaped medicine, science, and society across generations, is an honour beyond anything I could have imagined… it reflects not only individual achievement, but also the many students, colleagues, institutions and communities whose support has made my journey possible.”
Ntusi has consistently championed the role of science in addressing some of the world's most pressing health challenges, while advocating for stronger investment in African research capacity, innovation and scientific leadership.
"The future of medical science cannot be built upon exclusion,” he said in his acceptance speech, adding that it should be collaborative, and include Africa not merely as a participant “but as a leader in scientific discovery, innovation, and knowledge generation”.
“If we invest in talent, we invest in solutions; if we invest in science, we invest in prosperity; and if we invest in health research, we invest in a more secure and equitable future for humanity.”
He emphasised the importance of defending scientific integrity at a time when public trust in science is increasingly under pressure, “particularly by those who hold high office in many countries, which is of great concern”.
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