Stormzy awarded honorary degree by Cambridge for work supporting black students

Rapper Stormzy has been awarded an honorary degree from Cambridge University for his work helping black students get into higher education.

The 31-year-old received a Doctorate in Law on Wednesday for his “transformative” scholarship programme, which funds black UK students to study at the university.

Stormzy, whose real name is Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr, launched the Stormzy Scholarship in 2018.

Stormzy takes a selfie with students, after receiving his honorary degree from Cambridge University (PA)PA Wire/PA Images - Joe Giddens

So far, 56 undergraduates have benefited from full tuition and maintenance support, backed by his #Merky Foundation and HSBC UK.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice said: “Stormzy’s scholarship programme has had a transformative impact and we are proud to recognise his work with this degree.”

He was among eight public figures to receive the honorary degree.

Ms Prentice added: “Each of this year’s honorary graduands has made an extraordinary contribution to their field, and their work continues to inspire people in Cambridge and around the world.”

Other recipients included acclaimed actor Sir Simon Russell Beale, who was awarded a Doctorate in Letters, and US political activist and author Professor Angela Davis, who received the same honour.

Lady Arden of Heswall, a former justice of the UK Supreme Court, was honoured with a Doctorate in Law while Olympic gold medallist Dame Katherine Grainger, the current chairwoman of UK Sport and incoming chairwoman of the British Olympic Association was also awarded a Doctorate in Law.