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South Asian Heritage Month 2026

03 Jul 2026

Unity in diversity

South Asian Women in Higher Education network members

This July, South Asian Heritage Month is a national opportunity to recognise the histories, cultures and lived experiences of South Asian communities. It shines a light on the heritage of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and the many ways these stories are woven into both the UK’s and our university’s national identity.

This year’s theme ‘Unity in Diversity’, invites us to explore what unites us across our differences: shared values, intertwined histories, and a common commitment to community and belonging.

South Asian Women in Higher Education (SAWHE) Network

A great example of this is the recent launch of the South Asian Women in Higher Education (SAWHE) Network at Manchester Museum. As one of the founding partners, this was a positive and powerful moment for our University. Created by Dr Sayema Rahman Khan to tackle the underrepresentation and barriers faced by South Asian women in academia, SAWHE has already grown into a vibrant UK‑wide community of more than 300 members across 75+ institutions.

From a vision that’s successfully grown into a community, check out our reflection blog from Dr. Jahanara Miah and Dr. Binish Khatoon, hosts of the launch event and network members, exploring why the network matters, how it’s grown, and how you can get involved.

What's on at the Musuem?

The Contributions of North West Nurses to NHS Health and Social Care: Celebrate the South Asia Gallery’s new installation, marking the contribution of nurses from across South Asia to nursing in the UK.

Punjab Registers: Sharing the Stories for Evermore: An evening of discussion and remembrance, raising awareness of the ‘Punjab Registers’, a significant initiative that commemorates the contribution and sacrifice of Punjabi soldiers during the World Wars.

Chai and paint: A relaxed Chai and Paint workshop celebrating South Asian Heritage Month, designed especially for older South Asian women.