Shameel Joosub, CEO of Vodacom Group, received an Honorary Doctorate of Philosophy in Management Sciences at the annual Chancellor's Doctorandi Dinner hosted by the Central University of Technology over the weekend.
In
its citation at the official ceremony, the Bloemfontein, Free State, University
said: "Shameel's business acumen and
astute business administration skills have not only positioned the Vodacom
Group ahead of its competitors, but also allowed it to stay clear of economic
challenges facing many established enterprises."
The
University added that Shameel had been a critical figure in Vodacom's
transformation since 2012 and that he is "committed to driving change in
the telecommunications industry and leveraging Vodacom's capabilities to impact
communities positively."
In
his acceptance speech, Shameel said he was accepting "this honorary doctorate not just on behalf of myself, but on
behalf of the entire Vodacom family" and that his "journey to this
point would not have been possible without the immense support of my family,
loved ones, friends, colleagues and teams I have worked with over the last 34
years."
He
also paid a special thank you "to
those who saw potential in a young Shameel and for providing me with the
opportunities to grow my career."
"It is our purpose to connect for a
better future which is our guiding star in what we do. It transcends mere
profit, it's about creating meaningful connections, enabling progress and
enriching lives," added Shameel.
According
to the University, Shameel's skills and knowledge will "benefit and enhance CUT's potential to get closer to its 2030
vision of becoming a leading African university of technology, shaping the
future through innovation."
Shameel
also holds a Bachelor of Accounting Science (honours) from Unisa, an MBA from
Southern Queensland University and completed an Advanced Management Programme
at Harvard University.