Sir Sadiq Khan receives Honorary Doctorate in Business

As Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq has spearheaded numerous initiatives to foster business growth, innovation, and inclusivity in the capital. His Good Work Standard initiative has encouraged businesses to adopt fair employment practices - ensuring workers have access to fair pay, workplace rights and professional development opportunities. He has also prioritised investment in green industries, championing sustainability by creating jobs in renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.

Recognising London as a global hub for commerce, Sir Sadiq launched the London Growth Hub to provide essential guidance, funding, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. The “London Is Open” campaign has been one of his defining initiatives as Mayor, launched in the wake of the 2016 Brexit referendum to send a clear and positive message to the world: London remains open to people, ideas, trade, and business.

Sir Sadiq’s journey began in Tooting, South London, where he grew up as one of eight siblings in a hard-working family of Pakistani immigrants. His father, a bus driver, and his mother, a seamstress, instilled in him the importance of education and perseverance. These values propelled him to earn a law degree from the University of North London, which laid the foundation for a distinguished career as a human rights solicitor. Throughout his legal career, he tirelessly defended the rights of the marginalised, earning national recognition for his dedication to justice.

His political career began in 2005 when he was elected Member of Parliament for Tooting. In 2016, he made history by becoming the first Muslim Mayor of a major Western capital, securing a record-breaking personal mandate.

Vice Chancellor and President of UEL, Professor Amanda Broderick, paid tribute to Sir Sadiq’s remarkable achievements:

Sir Sadiq’s remarkable journey is a shining example of determination, resilience and the transformative power of education. As a champion of social justice, diversity and economic growth, his legacy inspires not only our students and alumni but all who strive to make a meaningful impact in their communities. We are proud to honour his outstanding contributions to public service and the community.”

Executive Dean of the Royal Docks School of Business and Law, Professor Fatima Annan-Diab, highlighted his significant contributions:

Sir Sadiq Khan truly reflects the values we aim to nurture in our students and community: resilience, innovation, inclusivity, and justice. His unwavering commitment to supporting enterprise and entrepreneurship has transformed London into a dynamic hub of opportunity. His leadership inspires us all to dream boldly, champion fairness, and lead with purpose, empowering the next generation to shape a brighter, more equitable future.”

The Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, commented on receiving the Doctorate: 

London is a thriving hub of opportunity - celebrated around the world for its innovation, diversity, and resilience - and that really is evident among the new generation of business leaders graduating here today. I would like to thank the university for this honour – and for its vital work to inspire and guide students, who in turn shape the future of our city and society, as we continue building a better and more prosperous London for everyone.”