Shanu S P Hinduja receives honorary doctorate from University of Bolton

CHAIR of S P Hinduja Banque Privée and co-chair of the UN global accelerator, Shanu S P Hinduja was conferred with a doctorate of business administration from University of Bolton for her contribution to the global economy.

Bolton University president and vice chancellor Professor George E Holmes awarded the honour to Hinduja in a virtual event watched by friends, family and colleagues from 56 countries around the world.

Hinduja, who is Professor of leadership at the University, gave her inaugural professorial address for the University’s institute of management.

During the lecture, she stressed the importance of allowing each individual to ‘shine’ and said that everyone was capable of practising values-based leadership.

“I feel awakened inside after reading the messages of support and inspired to fight my battle of honour for humanity and myself," she  said.

Hinduja is the only woman chairing the board of a Swiss bank, and has dedicated her life to the empowerment of minorities. She also supports the Duke of Edinburgh award.

She has captured the attention of the leaders of more than 130 countries at the UN general assembly, and publicly discussed achievement of the UN’s gender equality goals with former secretary-general Ban Ki-moon in Davos, a statement said.

Through the Hinduja Foundation, she has provided scholarships at Columbia University, Massachusetts General Hospital and University of Cambridge. She was a founding member of Prince Albert II of Monaco’s environment-focused Foundation.

Baroness Morris of Bolton, OBE chancellor emeritus of the University, introduced Hinduja to the audience and read the citation. Baroness Newlove, pro vice-chancellor of the University, also attended the event.