Legendary stage and screen actress Sandra Prinsloo’s career has been marked by memorable performances spanning more than five decades.
On 29 September 2026, the North-West University (NWU) recognised her contribution to the arts and South Africa’s cultural heritage by awarding her an honorary doctorate at the university’s Potchefstroom Campus.
The nomination came from the School of Creative Industries and Performing Arts in the Faculty of Humanities. It acknowledged her work across theatre, film and television, through which Prinsloo became one of South Africa’s most celebrated performers.
Her artistic range extended from works by Shakespeare and Athol Fugard to acclaimed South African productions such as Kamphoer, Oskar en die pienk tannie and Naaimasjien. Her performances abroad introduced international audiences to her talent, while her longstanding association with Potchefstroom’s Aardklop National Arts Festival strengthened her connection with the city.
National recognition included the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver in 2014, awarded for her contribution to the performing arts and her stand against racism. In 2022, she received the Fleur du Cap Lifetime Achievement Award.
The honorary doctorate recognised a career in which artistic excellence and the courage to challenge social conventions had repeatedly shared the stage.
As part of her acceptance speech, Dr Prinsloo said the honorary doctorate recognised not only her career, but also the legacy of South Africa’s film and theatre industry. She encouraged young artists not to underestimate the social impact of their craft and to recognise its power to challenge perceptions, inspire change and bring people together.
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, said nationally respected artists have a responsibility to pass the baton of social change through the arts to the next generation, as the reach of arts are a powerful tool for social cohesion.
Dr Prinsloo, to resounding applause, agreed.
Prof. Bismark Tyobeka, principal and vice-chancellor of the NWU, with Dr Sandra Prinsloo.
Dr Sandra Prinsloo celebrates her honorary doctorate with the NWU’s mascot, Eagi.
Watch the video below as we celebrate Dr Prinsloo and her remarkable career:
To watch the full ceremony:
