Reggae superstar Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley is among 13 distinguished Caribbean and international figures being recognised by The University of the West Indies (UWI) in its 2026 honorary graduations, alongside leaders in sports, journalism, diplomacy, medicine and culture.

Marley, the son of reggae legend Bob Marley, received an honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt) for his contribution to culture at the Mona Campus ceremonies in Jamaica, yesterday.

Known for blending reggae, dancehall and hip-hop, Marley has established an international career in his own right. His 2001 album Halfway Tree earned him his first Grammy, while Welcome to Jamrock brought him two Grammy awards in 2006. His album Stony Hill earned him another Grammy in 2018. He has also collaborated with international artistes, including American rapper Nas.

Among the other prominent recipients is Dominican Olympic champion Thea LaFond, who received an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) for her contribution to sport. LaFond made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by winning Dominica's first-ever Olympic medal, a gold in the women's triple jump.

Antigua and Barbuda-born investigative journalist Melvin Claxton will receive a Doctor of Letters for his contribution to journalism on November 14. His investigative work has earned him the 1995 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service and recognition for exposing systemic failures in law enforcement and the abuse of female prisoners.

Also being honoured is Trinidad and Tobago diplomat Ambassador Colin Granderson, who will receive an LLD for his contribution to diplomacy. He served as Assistant Secretary-General for Foreign and Community Relations at the CARICOM Secretariat for 20 years.

Other honorary graduands include Don Rojas, Doug E. Fresh, Reverend Dr. Lucille Onita Baird, Professor Shaneeta Johnson, Winston R. Rudder, Arnold Bertram, Dawn Robinson-Spence, Milton J. Samuda and René Baptiste.

Their contributions span media, music, religion, healthcare, agriculture, Caribbean scholarship, cultural preservation, public service, law and governance.

The honorary degrees are being conferred across UWI's five campuses, including Five Islands, Cave Hill, St. Augustine, Mona and the Global Campus.

Credit: UWI