New university clinic suite named in memory of student and aid worker Khuram Shaikh

Nasser Shaikh – Khuram’s brother, Hanna Shaikh, Herra Shaikh

A new clinic suite in the redeveloped Brian Blatchford Building at the University of Salford has been named in memory of former orthotics and prosthetics student, Khuram Shaikh.

Khuram, from Rochdale, was a well-respected alumnus of the university and, following his graduation, became an aid worker with the Red Cross and other international development organisations. Helping people in some of the world’s most deprived areas, he used his expertise in prosthetics in places such as the Gaza Strip.

On Christmas Day 2011 Khuram was murdered while on holiday in Sri Lanka with his girlfriend, who was also viciously attacked. This horrific crime became the focus of international attention through the campaigning work of Khuram’s family, who have worked tirelessly to ensure that the culprits were brought to justice.

The family’s campaign led to Prince Charles and the Prime Minister, David Cameron, raising the issue with the Sri Lankan authorities and earlier this year four men were jailed for Khuram’s murder and attacks against his girlfriend.

The proposal to name the clinic after Khuram was supported widely by students and staff in Khuram’s former department and across the School of Health Sciences.

Speaking at the launch of the new Khuram Shaikh Clinic Suite, Professor Sue Braid, Head of the School of Health Sciences, said: “The entire University community was shocked by the brutal murder of Khuram. Since Khuram’s death we have sought to support the family’s fight for justice and have been inspired by their strength and determination in what has been the most difficult of times.

“Khuram dedicated his life to helping people in the most deprived parts of the world, using the skills he learned here in Salford to fit prosthetic limbs to people affected by conflict. This work gave so many people a new lease of life.

“This new clinic, named in Khuram’s memory, will give future students the skills to continue his legacy and is a fitting tribute to a much missed University alumnus.”

Rochdale’s Member of Parliament, Simon Danczuk, who has campaigned alongside the family to bring Khuram’s killers to justice, added: “I’m really pleased that the University of Salford is remembering Khuram in this way. I think it is great to have an occasion like this where we celebrate Khuram’s life and the contribution that he was making. That’s what he lived for, to help others.

“It is in this building where his hopes and dreams grew, from here he went on to help people right across the world. Today’s event honours Khuram in the place where he learned his trade and where it all began.”