Westminster students take on community engagement roles to support Members of Parliament

The students in the University’s Gene Editors of the Future programme led by Dr Kalpana Surendranath, Leader of the Genome Engineering Laboratory and Senior Lecturer in Molecular Biology and Microbiology at the University of Westminster, have played roles ranging from logistical support to leadership, showcasing their diverse skills and dedication to community engagement and service.  

Taking on a more prominent role, the students served as the key floor setup team for the London Mayoral Assembly, where they managed the strategic arrangement of the venue to accommodate large crowds and high-profile attendees. The efforts of Maha Mansha Akhtar, Mishal Mansha Akhtar, Maha Mahboob, Aya Hijazi, Magdalena Ruiz Perez, Khalid Akram, Harshana Chaurasia, Jolina Viesmann, Aabha Khaparde, Dr Assem Kalykova and Dr Serzhan Mombekov ensured the functionality and aesthetics of the space, demonstrating their leadership in handling significant civic events.  

In a display of leadership, students Mishal and Iman took the stage as chairs for a citizens' general election assembly for the Westminster constituency held at Central Methodist Hall. They were involved in discussions with Members of Parliament including Rachel Blake, Tim Barnes and Edward Lucas. Shally Sultana Choudhury, Anshul Vashshist and Md Kawser Khan also played significant roles in the meeting by speaking with the candidates and building relationships with them. The agenda included sharing the general election manifesto as well as asking questions and seeking commitments.

The Gene Editors of the Future programme aims to provide students with the necessary skills in genome engineering using the Nobel prize-winning CRISPR technology. It is paramount to the training and development of Westminster students, enabling them to differentiate themselves in a world of competitive employment. There is also the potential for students to attain certification in CRISPR basics or advanced training, which will provide valuable experience for their future careers.  

Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours student Maha Mahboob said: “Being a part of Gene Editors of the Future has been an amazing journey for me. From learning so much from Dr Kalpana to attending political events, it was an out-of-the-box experience. The knowledge I gained through this programme, I could never have obtained otherwise. Arranging and attending three political events improved my organisational, leadership and teamwork skills. Being a note-taker for the London Mayoral Assembly positively forced me to enhance my listening and observation skills. I am truly grateful for Gene Editors of the Future as it brings out a new side in every student.”

Maha Mansha Akhtar, another Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours student, said: “During the Mayoral assembly, I was recognised for my outstanding organisational skills and leadership, leading to my acknowledgment as a natural leader at the General Election Accountability Assembly, another Citizens UK event. I represented West London and stood on stage, holding high the banner for West London before an audience of 2,000 UK citizens.”  

Mishal Mansha Akhtar, who also studies on the Biomedical Sciences BSc Honours course, added: “Participation in high-profile community events such as the London Mayoral Assembly and the Citizens’ General Election Assembly have been crucial experiences for me. They have taught me skills beyond Biomedical Sciences, such as leadership, event management and communication. Being hands-on with large civic events has not only made me more capable of handling major events, but also set me above other peers in my field. In one way or another, it has made me proud to be a student at the University of Westminster and part of the Gene Editors of the Future programme, which has played an important role in shaping me into a well-rounded person.”

This programme directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Learn more about the Biomedical Science and Applied Biotechnology courses at the University of Westminster.