Shadow Justice Secretary Sadiq Khan has become the first recipient of the FOSIS award for “Achievement and Inspiration”.

Liam Burns, NUS President who presented the award in Parliament said: "Over many years, Sadiq Khan has always made the time and effort to connect and engage with the UK's diverse student body.

"Whether attending FOSIS Conference or joining NUS lobbies of Parliament, Sadiq has also shown himself to be a friend of the student movement.

"His life story is an inspiration to the many students who have followed his successful career as a human rights lawyer, his chairmanship of Liberty, his election as MP for the area where he grew up, his status as the first Muslim to attend Cabinet in the UK, and now in his role as Shadow Justice Secretary."

Sadiq Khan MP said: “It is a huge honour to receive this award. It is crucial that university students realise how privileged they are to have the opportunity to have a university education.

"This brings with it a responsibility to be active citizens. It is very humbling to receive the award for ‘Achievement & Inspiration’ – Whatever I have achieved is through the support of my family and teachers. If I can help others fulfill their potential than its mission accomplished as far as I am concerned."

Nabil Ahmed, the former FOSIS president said, "Around the country there are stories every day of Muslim student contribution to civic society that should be celebrated, amidst some sadly negative stories and the gloom of tuition fee rises.

"One individual who has inspired students from all backgrounds, raised aspirations and shaped British civic and political participation for young people - throughout his career - is Rt Hon Sadiq Khan MP.

"His unique story and background resonates with so many, and his achievement should be seriously recognised. This is why we chose to award him, and students around the country valued and enjoyed his important message at the FOSIS Conference".