Johannesburg – Veteran actor Sello Maake kaNcube has dumped the honorary doctorate conferred upon him by Trinity International University of Ambassadors.
In a statement made available to The Bulrushes on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, the Sello Maake KaNcube Foundation stated that “legendary South African actor, storyteller, and cultural icon Sello Maake kaNcube has formally rejected, renounced, and disassociated himself from the honorary doctorate previously conferred upon him by Trinity International University of Ambassadors”.
The foundation said his decision follows years of sustained public controversy, reputational harm, ridicule, and emotional distress arising from the manner in which the matter surrounding Trinity International University of Ambassadors was publicly handled and politicised.
“Mr. Maake kaNcube accepted the honorary doctorate in good faith and had absolutely no involvement in the institution’s administration, accreditation, governance, or regulatory affairs,” the statement said.
“Despite this, his name became one of the most publicly amplified in the national discourse surrounding the institution.”
The foundation said it believes that Mr. Maake kaNcube’s public profile and stature made him an easy target for political and media attention, unfairly exposing him to humiliation and reputational damage for matters entirely beyond his control.
“Mr. Maake kaNcube has spent more than six decades building a respected legacy in South African arts, theatre, television, and nation-building,” said the foundation.
“It is deeply unfortunate that a recognition intended to honour his contribution ultimately became a source of public ridicule and personal pain.”
The foundation revealed that formal correspondence had been sent both to Trinity International University of Ambassadors and the Department of Higher Education and Training.
In its letter to the Department, the foundation calls for:
• a public clarification that Mr. Maake kaNcube was never implicated in wrongdoing;
• a formal apology for the reputational harm suffered; and
• greater responsibility in the handling of innocent public figures during matters of institutional investigation and public communication.
The foundation stated that kaNcube was appointing legal representatives to advise on the matter and the appropriate legal remedies available to him.
All correspondence issued thus far has therefore been made strictly without prejudice and with full reservation of legal rights.
The foundation stated that it also “noted with sadness” that the controversy surrounding the Trinity matter reportedly disrupted separate discussions and considerations relating to possible honorary recognition from other respected South African institutions.
“This matter goes beyond a title or qualification. It concerns dignity, fairness, and the human cost of public humiliation,” the foundation added.
“Despite the pain caused by this experience, Mr. Maake kaNcube remains committed to his contribution to South African arts, culture, mentorship, and social development.”
The foundation thanked the public, industry colleagues, and supporters who have continued to “stand beside Mr Maake kaNcube” during this difficult period.
