Charan Sekhon becomes first British Sikh of Indian origin to receive the highest honour given by Cranfield University in its 78 years history
Bedford (UK)(Asian independent) Founded in 1946, Cranfield University is leading global institution for specialist postgraduate study and research based in Cranfield village near Bedford. The university is ranked amongst the world’s best universities in the QS World University Rankings, announced their Alumni Awards.
Charan becomes the first British Sikh of India origin to receive the Distinguished Alumni Award in University’s 78 years history.
Announcing the winners the Cranfield University said ‘We are delighted to announce Charan Kanwal Singh Sekhon MBE, is the winner of Distinguished Alumni Award 2024. Charan completed his MSc in Energy Conservation and the Environment in 1997.
The Distinguished Water, Energy and Environment Alumni Award is one of Cranfield University’s highest honours which recognises exceptional achievement of individuals who have achieved significant success within the water, energy and environment sectors while upholding the highest standards in industry practice with international visibility showcasing the global impact of Cranfield University, influence and experience of working and contributing across different sectors and geographic regions.
Charan is serving as a Senior Environment Officer for the Environment Agency and has led many environmental projects and Equality and Diversity related projects in East Anglia.
Charan 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 motivated him to create and 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.
Charan’s commitment to public service is further exemplified by more than 20 years’ 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. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Charan led a team of volunteers in Bedfordshire, Milton Keynes, and Hertfordshire to assist 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.
The relentless dedication to charity and environmental causes, and support for his local community earned Charan an MBE in the 2022 New Year’s Honours List. He has also been recognised 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 Communications Team.
Annually, the University announces total five awards, one Distinguished Awards and fours Awards in Excellence that went to Elodie Aubanel, Dr Prafull Sharma, Enrique Morán Montero and Dr Sarah Fane for their contributions and achievements in design engineer, energy and sustainability, environment, agrifood and water.
Reacting to this announcement by the University, Charan said, ‘I am very surprised and feel humbled to be named for this special award. Cranfield, a world-class education & research hub & the alumni network played vital part in my career & helped to extend my network worldwide leading to setting up two charities, SEVA Trust UK and SEVA Trust India. It is also a reflection on the collective team effort and enormous support and guidance I received from my colleagues at the Environment Agency, UNISON and our fantastic team of volunteers of SEVA Trust.
I feel this recognition brings further responsibility to do more & better for all by promoting education, better health, environmental sustainability, equality & social justice for all.’ said Charan.
The Awards will be presented in September at University’s Annual Awards day.
