Founded in 1946, Cranfield University is a leading global institution for specialized postgraduate study and research, based in the village of Cranfield near Bedford. It is ranked among the world’s top universities in the QS World University Rankings…reports Asian Lite News
Cranfield University has announced the winners of the 2024 Alumni Awards, with Charan Kanwal Singh Sekhon MBE receiving the prestigious ‘Distinguished Alumni Award’. This makes Mr. Sekhon the first British Sikh of Indian origin to be honored with the university’s highest accolade in its 78-year history.
Founded in 1946, Cranfield University is a leading global institution for specialized postgraduate study and research, based in the village of Cranfield near Bedford. It is ranked among the world’s top universities in the QS World University Rankings.
“We are delighted to announce Charan Kanwal Singh Sekhon MBE as the winner of the Distinguished Alumni Award 2024,” the uni said in a statement. “Charan completed his MSc in Energy Conservation and the Environment in 1997.”
The Distinguished Alumni Award in Water, Energy, and Environment is one of Cranfield University’s highest honours. It recognises individuals who have achieved significant success in these sectors while maintaining the highest standards of industry practice and international visibility. This award showcases Cranfield University’s global impact and the influence and experience of its alumni across various sectors and geographic regions.
Charan currently serves as a Senior Environment Officer for the Environment Agency, where he has led numerous environmental and equality and diversity projects in East Anglia. He has demonstrated exceptional dedication to environmental protection and community service.
Born in Punjab, India, Charan’s early life in a rural village with limited access to education inspired him to establish an international NGO, SEVA Trust UK. As the Founder and Chairman, he has made significant contributions to education, health, welfare, and environmental initiatives in the UK and India.
His commitment to public service is further demonstrated by his more than 20 years of experience as a local councillor. His involvement extends to various youth, charity, and sports projects, including fundraising campaigns and participating in the London Marathon to support individuals with disabilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Charan led a team of volunteers in Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, and Hertfordshire, assisting hundreds of vulnerable families, rough sleepers, and isolated international students with food and essential items. His efforts particularly supported Cranfield University students and the local community.
Charan’s relentless dedication to charity, environmental causes, and support for his local community earned him an MBE in the 2022 New Year’s Honours List. He has also been recognized with several national and regional awards, including the ‘British Asian Pride of Britain Award’ at the House of Commons, the ‘Volunteer Fundraiser Award’ by the Papworth Trust, and the Cambridge and Bedford Mayor’s ‘Citizen of the Year’ Award for outstanding community and charity services.
“Charan’s exemplary career and personal life reflect his unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on communities and society as a whole,” said the University.
Every year, the university announces a total of five awards, including one Distinguished Award and four Awards for Excellence. This year, the Awards for Excellence were given to Elodie Aubanel, Dr. Prafull Sharma, Enrique Morán Montero, and Dr. Sarah Fane for their contributions and achievements in design engineering, energy and sustainability, environment, agrifood, and water.
In response to the announcement, Charan said, “I am very surprised and feel humbled to be named for this special award. Cranfield, a world-class education and research hub, and the alumni network have played a vital part in my career and helped extend my network worldwide, leading to the establishment of two charities, SEVA Trust UK and SEVA Trust India. It is also a reflection on the collective team effort and the enormous support and guidance I received from my colleagues at the Environment Agency, UNISON, and our fantastic team of volunteers at SEVA Trust.
“I feel this recognition brings further responsibility to do more and better for all by promoting education, better health, environmental sustainability, equality, and social justice for everyone,” added Charan.
The awards will be presented in September at the university’s Annual Awards Day.