Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama was conferred an honorary doctorate by the Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) on Tuesday, 27 October 2026.

The ceremony took place in Moscow as Mahama arrived the day before for the third Russia‑Africa Summit, scheduled for 28‑29 October, which will host more than 30 African heads of state and government.

Photographs and video released by Ghanaian outlet The 1957 News show Mahama in the university’s academic gown, confirming the formal nature of the award.

Mahama is also slated to receive a second honorary doctorate from the Russian University of Transport during a separate ceremony later in his visit.

In addition to the academic recognitions, the president will hold bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the summit’s sidelines, as confirmed by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

Mahama intends to raise the Russia‑Ukraine conflict and advocate for a ceasefire, reflecting Ghana’s broader diplomatic engagement on global issues.

The president will also attend the Economic and Humanitarian Forum and visit a kente exhibition organised by the Russia‑Ghana Parliamentary Forum, showcasing Ghanaian cultural heritage.

Background on the university and honorary doctorates

Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University was founded in February 1960 to provide higher‑education opportunities for students from Asia, Africa and Latin America, later renamed the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia before restoring Lumumba’s name in 2023.

Honorary doctorates are ceremonial distinctions awarded by universities to recognise notable contributions or achievements, distinct from academic degrees earned through coursework and research.

The university has previously honoured African leaders, including Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who received a similar honour in June 2026.