Harvard University announced on Monday it would have New Zealand’s prime minister serve as its principal speaker at the school’s 2022 spring commencement.
Lawrence Bacow, the university’s president, called Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern “one of the most respected leaders on the world stage,” adding the school is “delighted” to have her attending its commencement on May 26, according to the Harvard Gazette.
“From climate change and gender equality to COVID-19, she has modeled compassionate leadership that has brought together empathy and science-based solutions to address the most challenging issues of our time,” Bacow said. “I very much look forward to her address.”
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Harvard’s announcement comes a week after New Zealand’s capital was hit with hundreds of protesters who vowed to camp outside Parliament until the country’s COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. Ardern, who told lawmakers the country will have to prepare for more COVID-19 variants this year, did not meet with the protesters and told reporters that the protesters do not represent the majority view of the country.
A poll conducted in late January asked eligible voters whether or not they approved of Ardern’s performance as prime minister. The poll stated 52% of voters approve of the way Ardern is handling her job, while 37% disapprove, RNZ reported.
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Harvard University did not respond to the Washington Examiner’s request for comment.
