University News Last updated 27 July
Higher education institutions have a powerful role to play in reducing health inequities, says a healthcare leader awarded with an honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University (BCU).
Professor Habib Naqvi MBE, Chief Executive of the NHS Race and Health Observatory, has worked nationally to tackle the issue of inequalities in healthcare, having spent four years at the Department of Health and Social Care leading on equality and diversity policy before joining NHS England in 2013, where he oversaw the implementation of national health equity programmes such as the NHS Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES).
He was presented with his honorary doctorate from BCU during a ceremony held at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall today (27 July), in recognition of his sustained leadership in equality and diversity.
Describing how he felt, Professor Naqvi said: “I am deeply humbled and truly honoured to receive this honorary doctorate, and I want to express my sincere thanks to the University for this extraordinary recognition.
“This acknowledgment reflects the efforts of many people who have worked to push for a health and care system that serves every community with fairness, dignity, and compassion.”
He also recognised the civic role Birmingham City University and other similar organisations play within their local community, adding: “As vital anchor institutions, universities can bring together research, education, employment, partnerships and civic leadership to address the root causes of unequal health outcomes.”
BCU offers a wide range of courses within health and care professions and is powering the front line across Birmingham and beyond, with 43 per cent of all new nurses in the West Midlands being trained at the university.
Professor Naqvi advises students and graduates who want a career in healthcare to take what they have learned to make a difference in the lives of others, saying: “Build your healthcare career on the foundations of strong values - dignity, respect and ensuring everyone counts.
“Healthcare is ultimately about people, and the best professionals are those who combine skill and knowledge with compassion, curiosity and humility.
“Whatever role you go into, remember that every interaction matters: how you listen, how you communicate, and how you make people feel seen and respected can have a lasting impact.”
Image: Professor Habib Naqvi addressing BCU graduation ceremony