Partnership offers scholarship opportunities for British Muslim students

Northumbria University, Newcastle, has announced a partnership with the Aziz Foundation to provide scholarships for Masters’ students from British Muslim communities. The move is part of the University’s commitment to widening participation and promoting fair access to higher education for students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds.

Established as a family charity in 2015, the Aziz Foundation is inspired by the values and teaching of Islam to support the most disadvantaged communities. It has now named Northumbria as a preferred partner and is offering 100% tuition fee Masters’ scholarships to Muslims lacking the financial means to complete a post graduate degree at the University.

Dr Zain Sardar, Programme Manager at the Aziz Foundation said: “We are delighted to partner with Northumbria University – a forward looking inclusive institution that is taking the necessary steps to diversify its student cohorts at the post graduate level. We are certainly impressed by the range of initiatives and interventions run by the University in support of marginalised students.”

Professor Graham Wynn, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) at Northumbria, added: “Northumbria University is committed to providing fair access to enriching and empowering higher educational experience for students from all backgrounds. We are very proud to work with the Aziz Foundation to support up to nine British Muslim students each year to pursue their educational goals and build a strong platform for success in their future careers and life ambitions.”

In January 2022 Northumbria launched its Higher Education Without Barriers campaign to enable talented students from all backgrounds to access higher education. Supported by businesses, charitable trusts, and alumni, the campaign has raised over £2m and benefited more than 800 students in outreach, scholarships, hardship, well-being, and enterprise.

For more information about the Aziz Foundation scholarships, contact sue.vout@northumbria.ac.uk. Applications are made directly to the Aziz Foundation, with applications opening in the New Year.