It’s Dr Sean Paul - UTech to honour superstar for contributions to music and culture

Grammy Award-winning superstar Sean Paul is set to receive an honorary degree from the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) at its 2024 graduation ceremony next Friday.

The dancehall superstar, known for his chart-topping hits like Gimme the Light and Temperature, will be conferred with a honorary doctorate recognising his extraordinary contributions to music and Jamaican culture.

Sean Paul, who once attended UTech to pursue a degree in hospitality and tourism management, famously shifted gears to follow his passion for music, a decision that catapulted him to international stardom. Despite leaving his studies behind, his relentless dedication to his craft has earned him worldwide acclaim, including Grammy Awards, and prestigious accolades such as the MOBO Awards, and Soul Train Awards.

UTech praised the dancehall legend for his distinctive voice, infectious rhythms, and electrifying performances.

"Sean Paul's talent and dedication to his craft have earned him several Grammy and Billboard Music Award nominations, as well as accolades including an American Music Award, MOBO Awards, Soul Train Awards, MTV Music Awards, ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards, a Source Award, and a BET Award. He is the only Jamaican artiste to win an American Music Award (2006) for Favourite Pop/Rock Male Artiste," Utech noted.

In 2019, Sean Paul was awarded the Order of Distinction by the Jamaican government for his role in promoting reggae and dancehall on the world stage.

Joining him in receiving honours at UTech's 2024 ceremony are former commissioner of police, Major General Antony Anderson, and business mogul Christopher Zacca.