Flying high for scholarship winner

Life-saving helicopter pilot Raja Khan works tirelessly within the Liverpool Muslim Community, which has earned him a Chancellor's Scholarship.

The 42-year-old from Liverpool, who is on the BSc (Hons) Science Secondary Education with QTS, has been described by staff as a ‘shining example' of a student who represents Edge Hill University in the best possible way. 

From carrying out humanitarian relief work abroad as a qualified helicopter pilot to opening care homes or dedicating his time to an impressive array of volunteering commitments, Raja has dedicated his life caring for others.

"I get so much from helping other people," explains Raja. "Being a god-fearing man, it makes me feel that if I have the chance to help change someone's life I will try my best to do that.

"I spent many years in South Africa and I would see so many traumatic sights when I was flying. One time I remember saving a woman and her babies who were being attacked by hyenas, it was heartbreaking. At the time I was doing a mixture of flight work for film companies and also wildlife organisations. That's when I realised that I wanted to do humanitarian work because it was so much more rewarding."

Raja's pilot dreams were crushed though when a dangerous landing resulted in an arm injury which has resulted in a lengthy rehabilitation programme before he can return to flying.

"After my accident, I couldn't fly, so I came back to the UK and decided that university would help me fulfill some of my goals. I opened two care homes, which is very gratifying because the welfare of children is so important to me. We are like parents to these children and we can make such a positive impact on their lives, more than what their own parents are able to. To see them progress makes me feel so proud."

The married father-of-two is dedicated to making positive changes and has spearheaded an initiative to enhance funeral and burial services for the Liverpool Muslim community by initiating a Muslim Bereavement and Burial Service in the area.

He also devotes much of his free time to his fellow students at Edge Hill. He has helped to establish an Islamic Society and Facebook Group, with over 100 members, and is currently developing a multi-faith volunteer chaplaincy service to assist students with ethnic, cultural and religious issues. In the words of his colleagues from the Liverpool Mosque where he volunteers, they say "Raja's humble demeanour, motivation and desire to improve the lives of individuals are an inspiration to us all'.

Speaking about winning a scholarship, Raja said: "This is very special for me and means more to me than winning all my flying awards. At the same time I also feel a little bit embarrassed because I just do what I do. I'm glad that I can use my abilities to help others and this will never change."

As well as the scholarship award from Edge Hill University, he has also been elected to be President of political party, Northern All-Pakistani Muslin League.