Beatrice Chebet to Receive Honorary Doctorate from University of Kabianga

Decorated Kenyan athlete Beatrice Chebet is set to be awarded an honorary degree by the University of Kabianga in recognition of her outstanding achievements in global athletics. The ceremony will take place on November 14 during the university's 13th graduation event in Kericho County.

The university announced in a MyGov advertisement that Chebet will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters. This honour follows a period of remarkable success for the 25-year-old runner.

Chebet recently secured double gold at the World Athletics Championships in Japan, winning both the 10,000m and 5,000m events. In the 5,000m final, she outpaced her compatriot and friend, Faith Kipyegon, who finished with the silver medal. Her world championship victories add to the Olympic titles she claimed in the same disciplines at the 2024 Paris Games.

In its official statement, the university praised Chebet's global impact on the sport. "Chebet has demonstrated exceptional talent and discipline in sports globally, particularly in long-distance running," the institution noted. "She is a double gold medallist in the 10,000-meter and 5,000-meter races at the 2024 Summer Olympics and the 2025 World Athletics Championships. She is also the current world record-holder in the 5,000-meter race, the 5-kilometre road race, and the 10,000-meter race, among many other achievements.”

The university also highlighted her role as an inspiration to others, describing her as a role model and mentor. "She has represented Kenya in numerous international events, and her story promotes the values of hard work, resilience, excellence, ethical sportsmanship, professionalism, and patriotism," the statement continued.

Chebet, who comes from Saramek in Londiani, Kericho County, has also been nominated for the 2025 World Athlete of the Year award. Responding to the news of the honorary degree, she expressed her gratitude and said it would inspire her to continue striving for excellence.

"I’m happy to have been honoured by Kabianga University," Chebet said. "They have seen the hard work I have put in to inspire the younger generation and show them that it is possible."