WATCH: Jonathan Butler receive his honorary doctorate from Stellenbosch University

Jazz musician Jonathan Butler has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Stellenbosch University (SU) on Monday in recognition of his contribution to the arts and culture. Butler, who grew up in Athlone, received a Doctorate of Philosophy (honoris causa) during a graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. He also performed at the event.

In his acceptance speech, Butler said, “this moment is a dream fulfilled, one that has come through beyond anything I could ever ask, think or imagine. It is a glorious day, one that I will carry in me for the rest of my life. I stand before you deeply humbled. I am filled with gratitude and joy.”

He added that the degree is not for himself, but also for his family. Butler shared what he lacked in education due to his circumstances, he received through music. "Music became my teacher, my guide, my compass. Music has taught me discipline, courage and creativity. The journey was not easy for me. I wanted to use music to bring the world together, to make the world a better place and to see the change in communities."

Butler also offered advice to new graduates: "You will have your own race to run and your own trees to chop down. Sometimes you will get tired and you'll have to stop and regroup. But I say, if you start right, you will end right.

Following his acceptance speech, Butler entertained the attendees by singing some of his songs.

SU rector and Vice-Chancellor Professor Vim de Villiers said the university was proud to honour Butler for his impact on music and society. “We are particularly honoured to recognise Jonathan Butler, whose work has enriched society in profound ways,” he said. 

Butler, who was one of the first artists of colour to gain national recognition on South African radio and television, has built an international career while remaining involved in community upliftment projects. He serves as the first Global Entertainment Ambassador for the Lalela Foundation, which provides arts education at-risk youth.

"It is truly humbling for me as a kid who grew up in Athlone to be receiving an honorary doctorate from Stellenbosch University,” Butler said. “I’ll embrace it all, forever grateful and thankful for the recognition.”

SU graduation ceremonies will continue this week. On Tuesday, the university will also honour former Department of Science and Innovation director-general Dr Philemon Mphathi Mjwara with a Doctor of Science (honoris causa) for his contribution to South African science.

The graduation ceremonies will run until Thursday, with thousands of students set to receive their qualifications.

Cape Argus