FOSIS Welcomes Opposition to Demonisation of Muslim Students in Higher Education

The Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) in the UK and Eire today welcomed the motion put forward at the University and College Union annual conference which condemned the demonisation of Muslim students on campus and called on staff to ‘oppose the ethnic profiling of students and staff for immigration control or security purposes.’

Faisal Hanjra, spokesman for FOSIS, said today, “Following the events of 7/7 there have been a number of allegations put forward that have suggested that universities are at particular risk of infiltration from those seeking to commit acts similar in nature to that seen on 7/7.

This is simply untrue and no evidence has been put forward to substantiate these very serious allegations. The continuous cloud of suspicion that has hung over Muslim students at universities has negatively impacted on the education experience of many young Muslims. The accusations put forward by the likes of Prof Glees have been dismissed by all those working in the Higher Education sector including Universities UK, NUS and UCU.”

He further added, “Islamic societies on campuses across the country continue to be positive examples of integration and representation. They play a pivotal role in ensuring that Muslims are able to both study and practice their faith while at university.”

FOSIS calls upon the media to refrain from sensationalist reporting on this sensitive issue.

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Notes:

1. FOSIS (est. 1963) is the umbrella organisation of student groups in colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland, representing over 90,000 Muslim students.
2. For more information please contact FOSIS media on 07930991950, email media@fosis.org.uk or alternatively visit our website www.fosis.org.uk