At its spring graduation, the University of Cape Town (UCT) awarded honorary doctorates to two leading disability rights advocates, Dr Mohammed Cassiem D’Arcy and Shaib Chalklen.
Dr D’Arcy, an activist and scholar, has long advanced the rights of persons with disabilities through both grassroots organising and academic work. His research and advocacy have focused on building inclusive systems that challenge structural inequality while amplifying the voices of disabled people in policy spaces.
Shaib Chalklen, who previously served as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Disability, has been instrumental in shaping international and regional frameworks for disability inclusion. His leadership has contributed to stronger legislation, better representation, and practical improvements in access and equity for disabled communities. UCT’s recognition of these figures highlights the central role of disability rights in the broader pursuit of social justice and affirms the impact of decades of activism and commitment.
