By Zaima Khaliq
Councillor Mohammed Aikhlaq of the Bordesley Green constituency has been recognised, amongst other local heroes, in the Queen’s New Years Honours list 2017.
The Councillor, who began as a School Governor in 2001 was nominated for the award by Birmingham’s Leigh School for his continued efforts in the education sector.
Julie Davies, Executive Head Teacher of Leigh School explained why they felt he was deserving of the accolade.
“Councillor Aikhlaq has been the Chair for Leigh Primary School for at least 15 years. He oversees the strategic planning of the school, he’s involved with the leadership of the school and on a day-to-day basis and he’ll come in and do a presentation, assemblies and Governor Awards as well as giving up voluntary time to be on our governing body.
“He’s been involved with events that go on and both of his children have been through this school, which speaks volume of what he thinks about the standard of education that is on offer within Leigh School.
He’s really passionate making sure that the children within Washwood Heath, Saltley and his constituency get the same sort of education as children in more affluent areas, these are the main reasons we nominated him for the MBE.”
Cllr Aikhlaq’s first venture into the field of education began whilst living in a remote village in Dadyal, Pakistan.
Speaking exclusively to Asian World, he said: “It all started way back in 1991; I was living in a remote village and on my way home one day, I saw children being educated under a tree and sitting on the floor. I went straight home and told my father ‘I want to build classrooms for kids.’”
25 years later, the school in Dadyal is still providing a safe and nurturing environment for the children in the local village, which Cllr Aikhlaq regularly visits.
His regular efforts with the school include supplying educational equipment for the students, as well as furniture and whiteboards.
The presitigious MBE award recognises services to charity, education, industry, policing, sport and healthcare, as well as helping the community.
The Queen spoke in her Christmas message this year of how she was inspired by the actions of ordinary people.
“I often draw strength from meeting ordinary people doing extraordinary things: volunteers, carers, community organisers and good neighbours; unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special,” she said.
Councillor Aikhlaq now urges parents to get involved in the school system, as well as being active in the decision making processes that are taking place.
“It’s really difficult to get parents involved, but changes are coming. I urge parents to get involved with the schools and the governing bodies because that’s where all the decisions are being made.”
He adds: “There are a lot of positive changes in schools now; they have support officers in place. That is a fantastic way to get the parents involved; they hold coffee mornings and other events that parents can get involved in.
“We’re trying to get parents to get involved with the school system. You find in Primary school, there are a lot of moms who get involved, but they’re done some fantastic projects to get dads involved.”
