Floyd Shivambu, Deputy President of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has achieved a significant milestone by graduating with a Master of Science degree in International Development from the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies.
Shivambu shared news of his graduation ceremony on social media, revealing that he received the qualification on Tuesday.
Expressing his gratitude, Shivambu stated, “I had the honour of being awarded an MSc in International Development degree by the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies.” He further emphasized his pride in joining an alumni community that includes notable figures such as political activist Walter Rodney from Guyana and Ethiopian politician Arkebe Oqubay.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Shivambu remarked, “The journey was worth it and expanded our understanding of what is to be done.” His research focused on the economic relations between China and Africa.
This accomplishment adds to Shivambu’s academic credentials, as he previously obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2014. His dissertation explored South Africa’s negotiated transition to an inclusive political system.
Amid the upcoming elections scheduled for May 29, Shivambu highlighted the contentious nature of this year’s electoral process. He noted that credible polls suggest the African National Congress (ANC) is likely to receive less than 40% of the vote, citing widespread dissatisfaction with the party among South Africans.
Shivambu emphasized that the ANC’s longstanding tenure has failed to deliver significant economic transformation or empowerment for the majority of the country’s citizens. He underscored the sentiments expressed by many South Africans in the 2021 local elections, signaling a desire for change and accountability in government leadership.