Heal the Kids is about trying to help adults and parents realise that it is in our power to change the world our children live in

Michael Jackson

The special appearance at the university's prestigious debating chamber is to launch his global initiative for children, Heal the Kids.

The singing star, who is also chairman of the Heal the Kids Foundation, said its message was "far too important to me to allow a broken foot to keep me from this commitment".

He added: "Heal the Kids is about making a difference and trying to help adults and parents realise that it is in our power to change the world that our children live in."

Jackson has two children of his own by Deborah Rowe, who filed for divorce in 1999.

He also was married briefly to Elvis Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.

The Oxford Union often invites celebrities to address its members - last year's list includes soul singer Barry White and actor Charlton Heston.

Former Israeli leader Shimon Peres is a foundation member

But Jackson has proved to be the most popular guest in its 178-year history with more than 20,000 people applying to attend.

Boteach is president of Heal the Kids, which is aims to "promote nurturing relationships between parents and children".

It is also devoted to "fostering programmes that help all children gain the love, attention and quality time they need to prosper and flourish".

Members of the charity's board include former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres and actress Elizabeth Taylor.

Uri Geller's best man

Jackson and Boteach will be introduced to the union's audience by the psychic Uri Geller, a close friend of both men.

The singer is also is scheduled to attend a number of events while in the UK.

On 5 March he is down to attend the official launch in London of Confessions of a Rabbi and a Psychic, a collection of letters between Mr Boteach and Geller.

He has planned to be best man when Geller and his wife renew their wedding vows, a ceremony at which Mr Boteach will officiate.

Jackson is also scheduled to make an appearance at the 10th annual Michael Jackson Day at the London Apollo in Hammersmith, west London, on 7 March.