University of Sheffield confirmed runner-up for Aziz Inclusion Award

The Aziz Foundation is pleased to confirm the University of Sheffield as the runner up for the inaugural Aziz Inclusion Award. The Award celebrates, on an annual basis, a university partner that has demonstrated excellence in accommodating British Muslims and upholding an excellent student experience for communities of faith.

Dr Zain Sardar, Programme Manager and chair of the judging panel, said:

“I would like to congratulate the University of Sheffield for being the runner up for our inaugural Aziz Inclusion Award, which celebrates institutions that have demonstrated excellence in accommodating British Muslim students. The panel of judges were very impressed by how central the Muslim chaplain was to the university’s EDI strategy; the effort put into providing guidance around alternative student finance options for Muslim students; and the commitment shown to understand the lived experiences of communities of faith on campus through the Listening Project. Sheffield have done their utmost to embed inclusive practices into their institutional culture, and this earned the admiration of the judges and the Foundation’s trustees.”

Susan Fitzmaurice, University of Sheffield Race Equality Steering Group Chair and Vice President and Head of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities,  said:

“We’re honoured and thrilled to be recognised and celebrated for our commitment to inclusivity and the well-being of our British Muslim students. We believe that diversity enriches the fabric of our university, and we are dedicated to continuing our efforts in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. This award serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering understanding, embracing diversity and promoting unity on our campus. We extend our thanks to the judges and the Foundation’s trustees for acknowledging our efforts.”

This year, seven universities were longlisted by Aziz Scholars and alumni, with four institutions shortlisted by a panel of judges. The judges examined the EDI and WP initiatives in place at partner universities, and reviewed evidence, submitted by nominated institutions, of upholding an excellent student experience for British Muslims on campus. The two external judges on the panel were Nahid Roshanali, Universities Coordinator at the campaign organisation Islamophobia Awareness Month (IAM), and Ayesha Ahmed, Aziz mentor and Public Affairs professional.

The Foundation would like to congratulate the Senior Leadership Team at the University of Sheffield on its achievement and is looking forward to continuing working closely with the institution to co-develop an inclusive learning environment for British Muslim students.