°®ÆＧ

The proud graduates, including many in London for the first time, received their degrees in front of loved ones including family and friends. Around 5,000 people from more than 90 countries attended the three ceremonies over two days at London’s Barbican Centre. Music for the occasion was provided by students from the Royal Academy of Music.

°®ÆＧ of London Chancellor, HRH The Princess Royal, attended the Monday afternoon ceremony, presenting certificates to graduates and meeting with students afterwards. 

Three notable figures received Honorary Degrees and Fellowships over the two days: Craig O’Callaghan, Justice Ayesha A. Malik and Dr Mattur N. Nandakumara MBE. 

Craig O’Callaghan – Honorary Fellow

Craig, who received his award on Monday morning, joined the °®ÆＧ of London in 1986 as an examinations officer and in 1993 became Assistant Director Operations. In 2003 he was promoted to Director of Operations. In 2009 Craig assumed the role of Deputy Chief Executive Worldwide with responsibility for all student and operational services for International Programme students. Craig retired in 2023. During his time, student numbers grew to over 50,000 students, teaching centres numbers grew to over 120 and over 80,000 students graduated with degrees.  

Justice Ayesha A. Malik - Honorary Graduate, Doctor of Laws 

A powerful voice for gender inclusivity and a steadfast champion of constitutional supremacy, Justice Ayesha A. Malik has redefined Pakistan’s legal landscape through her transformative contributions. From her groundbreaking tenure at the High Court to her historic appointment as the first female judge of the Supreme Court, Justice Malik has undertaken significant steps to advance women’s rights, promote climate justice, and uphold principles of social justice and equity. Justice Malik received her award on Monday afternoon.

Dr Mattur N. Nandakumara MBE - Honorary Graduate, Doctor of Literature 

Dr Mattur Nandakumara has built a distinguished career as a pioneer in the propagation of Indian dance, classical arts and music in UK and Europe. As the Executive Director of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan in London, he has spearheaded the charity's journey to becoming the largest Indian arts organisation outside India. In 2023, he was awarded an honorary MBE by HRH King Charles III for his role as an ambassador for Indian art, culture and philosophy. He came to the UK in 1977 to undertake his PhD at the School of Oriental and African Studies, which he completed in 1983.  He received his award at the Tuesday ceremony.

An Honorary Fellowship had earlier been awarded to Mr Gamagedara Tikiri Bandara, Founder and Chairman of Royal Institute of Colombo (RIC), in Sri Lanka.

As always with Worldwide Graduations, the Barbican Centre enjoyed a joyous atmosphere as thousands of new graduates joined the °®ÆＧ of London alumnae, in the company of loved ones. 

Closing the ceremony, °®ÆＧ of London Vice-Chancellor Professor Wendy Thomson CBE, said:

On behalf of the entire °®ÆＧ, I thank you for the dedication and passion you have brought to your studies. We take immense pride in your accomplishments and we look forward to staying connected as you embark on this exciting new chapter. Congratulations once again. We wish you every success and fulfilment in the years to come.