The spotlight was firmly on 18 year old Hajira Qaiser, a second year student at Stockport College, as she took to the stage to introduce Sir Martyn Oliver, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, at the Association of Colleges Annual Conference in Birmingham last week.
Hajira was invited down personally by Sir Martyn during a visit to Stockport College earlier this month. A group discussion with learners about student life and ways to strengthen the further education experience, showed Hajira’s confidence and enthusiasm, leading to Sir Martyn offering her the chance to introduce him on stage.
Outside of her studies, Hajira coordinates the college debate team, sits on the Equalities Council, and regularly presents at local authority level to the Children and Families Scrutiny Committee on issues affecting young people. She also plays a leading role in organising the Muslim Arts and Culture Festival across Trafford and Stockport College Group.
The annual AoC conference brings together leaders, educators, and students from across the country to explore best practice in further education through keynote talks, workshops, and panel discussions.
Hajira attended the conference alongside Michelle McLaughlin, Head of Student Personal & Professional Development at TSCG. Michelle said, “Witnessing one of our students share the stage with Sir Martyn Oliver was a moment of immense pride for our college group. Hajira represents the passion and drive within our student community, and her voice is a powerful reminder that student experiences must remain central to further education.”
Hajira was introduced onto the stage by ITV Presenter Samin Ali Khan in front of an audience of more than one hundred people, she then opened her speech with, “My name is Hajira Qaiser: I’m 18 years old and currently studying for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Information Technology at Stockport College. Alongside my studies, I actively take part in enrichment activities and have a real passion for public speaking and representing student voices.”
She added, “When I was asked, I didn’t hesitate, I said yes straight away! It’s both exciting and a little daunting, but above all, it’s an honour to be here representing learners like me.”
Hajira also went on to praise her parents and mentioned how she wouldn’t be where she was today without them. She was also introduced to David Hughes, the CEO at the Association of Colleges and was given the opportunity to apply for a summer internship at the civil service.
Cllr Wendy Meikle, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Stockport Council, said: “It is a real honour to hear that Hajira, a local student from Stockport College has been invited to introduce Sir Martyn Oliver at this prestigious event. I am so proud that Hajira had the confidence to put herself forward for the opportunity to introduce Sir Martyn Oliver at the Association of Colleges Annual Conference.
“I am looking forward to hearing from Hajira when she returns about her experience and I am hoping she shares this far and wide to inspire others. We are immensely proud that students like Hajira are able to benefit from experiences like these that broaden their horizons and this reflects in the high quality of education available across the borough.”
Speaking to Hajira, after her speech, she said, “It was an amazing feeling, it felt great being up there. There were so many principles, but I tried to stay calm and collected. Everyone also recognised me afterwards and was wanting to say hi and get pictures.”
