U2 frontman Bono has received an honorary degree for his contribution to music and humanitarian causes from Keio University in Japan.

The singer was greeted by a rapturous response from students at the university as he collected the award yesterday (May 27th).

Bono is currently in Japan to attend the fourth Tokyo International conference on Africa Development.

Speaking to students yesterday, the U2 singer urged the country not to ignore Africa ahead of the G8 summit in July.

Bono said that the world was watching Japan as the summit, which is due to take place in Hokkaido, approaches. After setting a precedent in the 1990s, Japan’s aid to Africa has fallen over recent years.

On Monday, former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney was awarded an honorary degree from Yale University. He was presented the honour along with other students at the prestigious college.

(by Jason Gregory)