The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) has announced that it will award honorary doctoral degrees to three distinguished citizens at its 2025 graduation ceremony on November 19. The honorees include Peter Elias, who will receive an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts; Israel Khan, who will be awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws; and Jamwant Maharaj, who will be honored with an honorary Doctor of Science. Additionally, Gilman Figaro, founder and chairman of the Sunshine Awards and a prominent supporter of Caribbean music, will be named an honorary distinguished fellow.
Peter Elias, a renowned figure in the fashion industry, has made significant contributions to couture and Carnival costume design, particularly through his work with The Lost Tribe. His selection marks only the ninth honorary doctorate in fine arts at UTT, with Meiling Esau (2017) being the only other active fashion designer previously honored.
Israel Khan, president of the Criminal Bar Association and founder of Justitia Omnibus Law Chambers, has been a leading figure in the legal field since 1979. In 2023, he was recognized as one of the six most distinguished graduates of the Hugh Wooding Law School on its 50th anniversary. Khan has also served as a tutor at the institution for over three decades.
Jamwant Maharaj, a former chemistry teacher at Naparima College, has authored and published educational books for CSEC and CAPE students. He continues to mentor students through the online platform WEXL, leaving a lasting impact on the field of education.
An honorary doctorate, or honoris causa, is a prestigious recognition of an individual’s lifetime achievements and contributions to society. Unlike traditional academic degrees, it does not require formal scholarship but acknowledges the profound impact of the recipient’s work. This award inverts the conventional educational paradigm by celebrating a body of work that may itself become a subject of academic study.
UTT has a history of honoring influential figures, including Nelson Mandela, who received over 50 honorary degrees for his anti-racism and peace advocacy. Since 2005, UTT has recognized a diverse group of luminaries, such as Geoffrey Holder, Mungal Patasar, and Le Roy Clarke. Notably, only five of these honors have been awarded posthumously, highlighting the importance of celebrating living contributors to society.