Introduction
In recent times, there’s been a surge of confusion about honorary doctorates, especially those awarded by digital universities. Critics often lump all honorary titles into the category of “fake degrees” without understanding their actual purpose. This misunderstanding not only disrespects the award itself, but also the individuals whose lifelong service is being recognised.
Let’s be clear: an honorary doctorate is not a fake academic degree. It is a recognition, a symbolic honour, and a public tribute to real-world contributions. It holds cultural, emotional, and social value — when awarded transparently and used ethically.
What an Honorary Doctorate Really Means
An honorary doctorate is a non-academic award given by a university or educational institution. It honours someone’s life work, public service, or impact on society. It does not involve traditional classroom learning, thesis submission, or academic defense.
Instead, it says: “This person has contributed so much in their field or community that their experience is equivalent in value to years of research.”
It’s a public gesture of respect, not a claim of scholarly research.
A Global Tradition, Not a Modern Gimmick
Many of the world’s most respected universities — including Harvard, Oxford, and Delhi University — have long awarded honorary degrees. These recognitions are given to:
- Social reformers
- Artists
- Writers and poets
- Entrepreneurs
- Scientists without formal degrees
- Grassroots leaders
- Spiritual teachers
Just because someone didn’t complete a PhD doesn’t mean their contribution is lesser. Honorary doctorates acknowledge that contribution comes in many forms.
Why Calling Them “Fake” Is Misleading
The word “fake” implies something is pretending to be real. But an honorary doctorate is not pretending to be an academic doctorate. It is different — and clearly labeled as such.
Most structured platforms and digital universities, like Cambridge Digital University or Euro Asian University, clearly state:
- The degree is honorary
- It should not be used for academic employment unless otherwise accepted
- The “Dr” title is for honorary or social purposes
- It cannot be used to teach, publish, or practice without relevant qualifications
With such clarity, the accusation of “fake” loses all meaning. The problem is not the award — it is the public’s lack of awareness.
Who Is Receiving These Awards?
Honorary doctorates are being awarded to:
- A retired headmaster in Jharkhand who helped 1,000 students reach college
- A social worker in Tamil Nadu who runs a shelter for abandoned girls
- A tribal leader from Chhattisgarh preserving endangered languages
- A yoga teacher from Maharashtra with 25 years of community service
- A woman entrepreneur in Assam who created 300 rural jobs
These are not people looking for shortcuts. They are individuals who have earned recognition — just not in the classroom.
Calling their honours “fake” is not just incorrect — it’s deeply unfair.
Digital Platforms Are Not the Problem
Many critics assume that because a convocation happens online, it must be invalid. But the world has changed. In the post-pandemic era, many real-life milestones — weddings, births, court hearings, and even international summits — happen digitally.
A digital honorary doctorate still involves:
- Verification of the person’s background
- Institutional approval
- An official ceremony or citation
- Public record of the award
A virtual stage doesn’t make the recognition less real. It simply makes it more accessible.
Processing Fees Are Not Bribes
Another point of criticism is the presence of a one-time processing fee. This fee:
- Covers documentation, media coverage, and ceremonial arrangements
- Helps maintain the platform, advisory committees, and logistics
- Is not a payment “for the degree” but for the service around the award
Just like a passport or professional certificate has a processing charge, so does this recognition. Calling it “paid recognition” misunderstands the difference between a facilitation charge and buying a degree.
Can You Use the Title “Dr”?
Yes — with context. After receiving an honorary doctorate, it is common and acceptable to use the “Dr” prefix for:
- Social introductions
- Professional seminars
- Community platforms
- Visiting cards or CVs (with “Honorary” mentioned clearly)
- Invitations and award nominations
The key is transparency. Don’t claim it as an academic or earned PhD. Use it proudly — but with clarity.
Why These Recognitions Matter in India
India is a country where status and titles matter, not for ego, but for social mobility and family pride. When a person from a modest background is called “Dr,” it often:
- Inspires local youth to dream bigger
- Brings dignity to the family name
- Gains attention for meaningful community work
- Encourages the person to do even more for society
In a village in Madhya Pradesh or a small town in West Bengal, this title brings hope and visibility. That cannot be dismissed.
Conclusion
Honorary doctorates are not fake degrees. They are honest, symbolic recognitions that fill a deep gap in traditional academic systems. They are meant to celebrate impact, not compete with PhDs. And when awarded with process, intent, and clarity, they hold lasting value.
Criticising these honours without understanding their purpose only hurts the people who deserve them most. So instead of mocking or doubting, it’s time to recognise what they really are — a society’s way of saying thank you to those who uplift it.
And that, in any format — online or offline — is not fake. It is honour.