Winter graduations 2024
More than 2,000 students will graduate this week from the University of Bradford, which has just been ranked 1st on the Social Mobility Index for the fourth year in a row.
A total of 2,239 graduands are due to attend ceremonies from Monday to Thursday in subjects ranging from archaeology and engineering to nursing and social work.
They will be joined by eight honorary graduates, chosen for making a difference in their respective professions or pursuits.
The University of Bradford holds two graduation ceremonies each year - one in the summer and one in winter.
Commenting on this week’s celebrations, Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirley Congdon said: “This is a special moment for all our graduates. Here at the University of Bradford, we care about what matters, giving people the opportunity to access university and prosper in life, in employment, being self-employed, or as an entrepreneur. We are determined to be the best at supporting people and communities to prosper.
“I am also very proud with the news that our university has once again been ranked 1st on the English Social Mobility Index, which ranks universities based on their ability to improve people’s life chances. To have been ranked 1st for four years in a row is a tremendous achievement and a reflection on our hard work.”
All graduates at the University of Bradford receive a ‘six month check-up’ and are offered support for up to five years by its Careers & Employability Service.
Our honorary graduates
Emma Merva – Doctor of Education
‘In recognition of her significant contribution to education on a regional and national scale.’
Emma Merva is a highly experienced national and international educational professional, who has worked across the world in both an advisory and inspection capacity with governments and educational providers.
Asghar Ali, Ishfaq Farooq and Shakoor Ahmed – Outstanding Contribution Award
‘In recognition of the significant impact they are making in the city of Bradford, collectively and as individuals.’
Asghar, Shakoor and Ishfaq, along with other family members, are the founding brothers and cousins behind the MyLahore restaurant chain.
Chief Constable John Robins QPM DL – Doctor of the University
‘In recognition of his significant impact and contribution to the District of Bradford and West Yorkshire.’
Chief Constable John Robins has 34 years of policing experience, uniquely all in West Yorkshire Police (WYP).
Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge – Doctor of the University
’In recognition of being an internationally renowned campaigner and her outstanding contribution to positive peace and social justice.’
Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge is a highly respected political figure, with a distinguished history of campaigning for human rights.
David Nicholas Wilkinson – Doctor of the University
‘In recognition of his significant contribution to supporting and promoting cinematic arts in Bradford and internationally.’
David Nicholas Wilkinson is Yorkshire-born director, producer, writer and founder of Guerilla Films.
Rebecca George CBE – Doctor of Technology
‘In recognition of the significant impact and contribution she has made to the promotion of inclusion of women in technology.’
Rebecca is an independent advisor to the Public Sector. She has held roles in Skills Reform since 2019 and most recently advised DfE on Employer Engagement and putting employers at the heart of Skills Reform. Rebecca is also Non-Executive Director for the Metropolitan Police.
Vicky Burns – Doctor of Health
‘In recognition of the significant impact she is making in the field of women’s healthcare.’
Vicky has worked in women's health for 18 years within gynaecology and early pregnancy, and more recently in female gynaecology cancer services.
Elgidius Edgar Bwinabona Ichumbaki – Doctor of the University
‘In recognition of the significant impact he has made internationally in the field of archaeology, and as a valued collaborator and friend of the University.’
The National Geographic explorer, Elgidius Edgar Bwinabona Ichumbaki, is an Associate Professor of Heritage Studies at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. He is also a Visiting Associate Professor at the University College Dublin, Ireland and an Adjunct Professor at Korea University in South Korea.