Southwark College had the honour of hosting the Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Naima Ali, who delivered an impactful talk on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) to our student community. Principal Jane Button warmly welcomed Mayor Naima Ali, which showcased the college's commitment to addressing important social issues.
The visit began with a college tour led by our Student Union officers. The tour allowed the Mayor of Southwark to engage with various departments, including a music studio stop where she spoke with students practising their craft. That was followed by a visit to the science lab, where she learned about the innovative programs we offer to our students.
As the tour progressed, the Mayor interacted with students in Media, Games Design, Business, IT, and ESOL classes. The tour was completed with a visit to our dedicated Fashion studio, highlighting the diverse educational opportunities available at Southwark College.
The Mayor delivered a moving talk that resonated with the attendees. She shared her personal experiences with FGM, providing insight into the issue's emotional and cultural significance. The session concluded with an open question-and-answer, encouraging thoughtful dialogue among students.
Our Student Union facilitated a roundtable discussion, exploring potential collaborations between the college and the Mayor's office. This discussion opened the floor to opportunities for our students, including organising and attending events to raise awareness and promote education on pressing social issues.
Overall, the visit informed our students about FGM and empowered them to participate actively in community dialogue and initiatives.
To find out more about the support available to our students and opportunities to get involved, visit southwark.ac.uk/student-services
