University of South France (L'Universite du Sud) has honoured Mata Amritanandamayi, popularly known as the hugging saint, by appointing her as the International Patron Mother for students participating in the newly created degree in 'Humanitarian Action and Rural Development'.
The announcement about the title being bestowed on her was made earlier in November by Madame Martine Hardy, director of the common services, during her visit to Toulon.
According to her ashram, the university said the appointment is a 'tribute to Amma's exemplary action' and is in recognition of 'a woman who has dedicated her life to serving humanity and whose work has generated a vast amount of charitable activities'.
In an acceptance letter, Swami Amritaswarupananda, vice-chairman. board of trustees for the 'Ma Math', noted that Amma is very pleased to see the University's and the students' efforts to initiate projects that are beneficial to developing countries. Amma sent her best wishes for the success of all the university's projects.
Located in Toulon, France, the university of over 10,000 students has a high number of successful graduates and is under the Ministry of Education and Research.