A South African man has inspired social media users—including audiences across Kenya—after a video of his graduation ceremony went viral on TikTok.
Simon Mateus received his Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree from the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Law on 1 September 2026.
He earned a standing ovation and widespread acclaim as he was hooded in a striking red doctoral gown.
Simon completed his doctoral thesis under the guidance of Judge Mlambo, focusing on a groundbreaking international law topic.
His research examined the obligation to eliminate poverty as a fundamental norm in international law, known in legal terms as jus cogens.
During the graduation ceremony, the University of Pretoria shared a summary of his thesis, a tradition that resonated deeply with the online audience as reported by Briefly News..
Praises Young Doctor of Laws Simon Mateus’s achievement continued to inspire netizens online, with many praising him for earning his Doctor of Laws degree before turning 30.
His milestone at the University of Pretoria sparked admiration, with social media users describing it as an impressive display of academic excellence.
Watch the graduation moment that stopped netizens in its tracks in the TikTok video below:
The comments section was filled with congratulatory messages and questions about his academic journey.
@Obie said:
“I love how UP reads out doctoral abstracts. Well done, doc 🔥!”
@Mathota | HikingWithMathota declared:
“PhD under 30, now this is the biggest flex 😌.”
@tilokzn asked:
“Sounds like a good read. Where can we access the complete chapters of the thesis?”
@DR SK KGWELE offered:
“The title has a volume. Massive congratulations 🎊🎉.”
@user947081609869 shared:
“Yesterday I was there; it was humbling to hear your academic achievement.”
One commenter, whose handle was unclear, added: “Nothing, and no one should make us believe that education is not important, not even the rate of unemployment 😤.”
The reactions reflected the wider admiration for Mateus’s achievement, with many viewing his academic success as an inspiration for young people pursuing higher education.
