MIHE Contributes to University of Oxford Workshop on Muslim Institutions and Belonging in Europe

Dr Zahid Parvez, Rector of MIHE, participated in a workshop entitled “Making Diversity Work: Muslims, Institutions and Belonging in Europe”, organised by Professor Masooda Bano at the University of Oxford’s Department of International Development on 26 October 2026.

The workshop brought together representatives from organisations across the UK, Austria, France and Germany to explore how positive changes within mosques and Muslim institutions can become more visible and better understood through greater engagement with schools, universities, public institutions and wider civil society.

In his contribution, Dr Parvez highlighted that many Muslim institutions in Britain are already adapting to contemporary societal needs, but much of their valuable work remains insufficiently recognised beyond Muslim communities. He emphasised the importance of building trust, demonstrating relevance and strengthening relationships with mainstream institutions and wider society.

Drawing on MIHE’s experience, he explained how the Institute has developed partnerships with mainstream universities, operates within the UK's higher education regulatory and quality assurance frameworks, and offers academic programmes that connect Islamic scholarship with contemporary societal needs. These programmes prepare graduates for professional roles in education, chaplaincy, pastoral care, Islamic finance and sustainable development.

He also highlighted MIHE’s Public Lecture Series, special seminars, professional development programmes and community partnerships as examples of how Muslim institutions can promote dialogue, mutual understanding and meaningful engagement with wider society. Dr Parvez concluded that Muslim institutions should be recognised not simply as organisations serving Muslim communities, but as valuable contributors to British society, offering knowledge, expertise, ethical perspectives and professional skills that benefit everyone.

He emphasised that the ultimate goal should be to move beyond community-specific engagement towards building lasting partnerships that contribute to a more just, inclusive, caring and flourishing society for all.