CHENNAI: Local Administration Minister M.K. Stalin, music composer A.R. Rahman and space scientist Mayilsamy Annadurai will be awarded honorary doctorate this year by Anna University-Chennai. Vice-Chancellor P. Mannar Jawahar said: “At the syndicate meeting we have decided to celebrate the Anna centenary year by awarding honorary doctorates to people who have worked for the socially downtrodden. We submitted these names to the Governor and he has given his approval.” Mr. Stalin would be given an honorary doctorate in Humanities and Social Sciences, primarily for his work for all sections of society in building flyovers and encouraging Self-Help Groups, he said. Mr. Annadurai would be given an honorary doctorate in aerospace technology for his achievements in space technology, especially the Chandrayan mission, while Mr. Rahman would receive his doctorate in media sciences for his achievements in music, including the recent Oscars. “Annadurai (the first DMK Chief Minister) believed that science and technology should always be used for the benefit of the downtrodden. These awards are being given by Anna University in respect for this idea,” Mr. Jawahar said. The doctorates would be awarded at a special convocation at the university in the last week of March, the Vice-Chancellor said. The date would be announced soon. http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/01/stories/2009030153140400.htm
