World marathon record holder Eliud Kipchoge was on Friday feted with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by Laikipia University during its 7th graduation ceremony.
Kipchoge received the award for his exemplary performance in sports.
“Pursuant of Laikipia University Charter, 2013 Section III, (21) (4) (k) on the conferment of honorary degrees and upon recommendation of the university senate and approval therefore by the Laikipia University council, the university has the pleasure of to present Mr. Eliud Kipchoge to Kenyans and the international community for the award of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) during the 7th graduation ceremony,” read a statement from the University’s website.
“The University senate in making this award noted that Eliud has made tremendous contributions in the realm of sports. The senate specifically recognizes his most recent achievement of becoming the first human in history to run a sub-two-hour marathon,” added the statement.
The world marathon record holder took to his Twitter account to thank the university for honoring him.
"Today I was awarded the Honorary Degree of Science from Laikipia University. I thank the university fraternity for this auspicious award. Thank you," tweeted Kipchoge.
The award-winning athlete was recently crowned the World Male Athlete of the Year for the second year running at the World Athletics awards gala held last weekend in Monaco, France.
Kipchoge was also awarded the highest civilian state commendation – Elder of the Order of Golden Heart (EGH) by President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20th.
The Olympic champion also successfully defended his London marathon title in April to capture his fourth title at the English capital in a course record of 2:02:37.
Then he recently excited the world when he went for the INEOS challenge that he became the first man on earth to run under 2hrs in a 42km distance.