On April 15th, 2009, Mr. Noppidan Theppitak, the Thai ambassador to Egypt, informed Zahi Hawass that Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University in Bangkok is planning to present him with an honorary doctorate on June 16th, 2009, in a gala ceremony in the Golden Room of the beautifully restored Manyal Palace.

Ambassador Theppitak said that for the last year, the university had been considering awarding Hawass an honorary degree in recognition of his contributions to the field of Egyptology over the course of his career. Just last week, the board of trustees met and approved the decision. Ambassador Theppitak mentioned that Hawass’ discoveries, including his identification of the mummy of Hatshepsut, his study of the mummy of Tutankhamun, and the Valley of the Golden Mummies in Bahariya are famous in Thailand. “Dr. Hawass has done much for humanity,” the ambassador said, “adding to our knowledge of the mysteries of ancient Egypt. He has revealed the secrets of the past one by one, and we know that there are more discoveries to come. Just recently, as we have seen, he discovered a new pyramid at Saqqara!” Hawass said that the ambassdor’s kind words touched him deeply. Hawass also said that he was amazed that at a time of great upheaval in Thailand, the Thai people are still fascinated by the world of the pharaohs, which shows their great awareness and appreciation of culture and history.

The ceremony is tentatively scheduled for June 16th in Cairo, and will be held in the Golden Room of the restored Manyal Palace. Ambassador Theppitak said that the university will invite Hawass to Thailand this fall, perhaps in October, to give a presentation. Hawass said that he was looking forward to the visit, adding
“The last time I was there, I had the honor of giving an exclusive lecture to Her Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, an amazing lady whom I admire very much. I found the Thai people to be kind, friendly, and welcoming, and I also love Thai food!”