Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan donned ceremonial robes on Thursday to receive an Honorary Doctorate from an east London university.
The honorary business doctorate was conferred on Sir Sadiq by the University of East London at a ceremony on Thursday, which cited what the university called his “exceptional contributions to leadership, social justice and fostering business innovation in the capital.”
It comes just weeks after he was knighted in the New Year’s Honours List for his achievement in winning a record third term as London mayor – a move which prompted criticism from the Conservatives that it was a reward for “failure” in his running of the capital.
Sir Sadiq Khan receives Honorary Doctorate in Business from the University of East London (UEL)
Conferring the doctorate on the 54-year-old, the University of East London pointed to his Good Work Standard scheme, which encourages businesses to adopt fair employment practices and investment in green industries, as being among his achievements for the capital’s businesses.
It said he had championed London as a “global hub” for commerce in the wake of the 2016 Brexit referendum through his “London is Open’ campaign.
Vice Chancellor and President of UEL, Professor Amanda Broderick, said: “Sir Sadiq’s remarkable journey is a shining example of determination, resilience and the transformative power of education.
“As a champion of social justice, diversity and economic growth, his legacy inspires not only our students and alumni but all who strive to make a meaningful impact in their communities.
“We are proud to honour his outstanding contributions to public service and the community.”
Sir Sadiq thanked the university for the honour, saying: “London is a thriving hub of opportunity – celebrated around the world for its innovation, diversity, and resilience – and that really is evident among the new generation of business leaders graduating here today.
“I would like to thank the university for this honour – and for its vital work to inspire and guide students, who in turn shape the future of our city and society, as we continue building a better and more prosperous London for everyone.”
Sir Sadiq Khan received an Honorary Doctorate in Business from the University of East London (UEL)
The Tooting-born son of a bus driver worked as a human rights lawyer before entering Parliament as MP for his home town in 2005, serving as a junior minister under Gordon Brown and then as shadow justice secretary under Ed Miliband.
In 2016, he defeated Conservative Zac Goldsmith to succeed Boris Johnson as mayor of London, becoming the first Muslim mayor of a major western city and going on to win two further terms.
However, he has faced scrutiny by critics on his record, particularly over crime in London, as well as the capital’s housing crisis.
On Thursday full details of his budget were revealed as his share of council tax is set to rise.