A Guernsey Islander is to be awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Essex in recognition of his pioneering work on computer games and the Internet’s name system, it has just been announced.
Nigel Roberts, an alumnus of the university, graduated from there with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science. He later obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the Open University/College of Law.
In their official announcement the University of Essex said it gives honorary degrees to ‘persons of conspicuous merit or distinction who are outstanding in their academic or professional life or particular field.’
Since its foundation in 1967, the University of Essex has honoured more than 300 individuals from many walks of life in this way, for their varied contributions to learning, creativity and the acquisition of knowledge, to human welfare and human rights, and to the building and maintaining of a fairer society.
Previous recipients of the prestigious honorary doctorate award are:
- (Inventor of the World-Wide-Web), Sir Tim Berners-Lee
- (UK Prime Minister), Sir Harold Wilson
- (Current leader of the UK Government opposition), Sir Keir Starmer
- (Barrister and Human rights activist), Baroness Helena Kennedy
- (Singer and activist), Annie Lennox
Described in a statement by the university as ‘an influential computer scientist’, Nigel was one of the group of students at the University of Essex who conceived and developed the world’s first multi-user computer game, known as MUD, which led on to the creation of today’s multiplayer games and the e-sports industry.
Nigel created the GG and JE top-level identifiers for Guernsey and Jersey in 1996.
Commenting on the University’s announcement, Nigel Roberts said today: “To say I’m honoured by the University’s decision is an understatement. I’m very much looking forward to returning to the Colchester Campus for the summer graduation ceremony”.
The ceremony will take place in the University’s Ivor Crewe Lecture Theatre on Colchester campus on 18th July 2022 when Nigel will give a commencement address to the 2022 Graduates.
