UEL apprenticeships shortlisted for University of the Year

The University of East London (UEL) has been shortlisted for the ‘University of the Year’ title at the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards 2025.

The winners will be unveiled at the final awards ceremony at the Hilton London Metropole on 7 November.

Previously known as the BAME Apprenticeship Awards, the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards were established to showcase talent and diversity within multicultural communities, celebrating the achievements of apprentices and the vital roles played by employers and learning providers in supporting them.

In addition to the university’s recognition, we are proud to announce the apprentices who have been nominated as finalists across various categories. Their hard work, dedication, and talent truly set them apart:

Management and Professional Services Apprentice Finalists:

• Anaya Agrawal – Accenture (University of East London)
• Julia Gnyszka – Accenture (University of East London)
• Sarah Otite – Howden Group Holdings (University of East London)

Health, Medical and Social Care Apprentice Finalist:

• Idayat Titilope Lawal – Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospital NHS Trust (BHRUT) (University of East London)

Digital and Technology Apprentice Finalist:

• Aliah Amjad – Accenture (University of East London)

These finalists represent the strength, resilience, and excellence at the heart of UEL’s apprenticeship community. Their achievements embody the university’s mission to transform lives through inclusive and industry-connected education.

Launched in 2017, UEL’s apprenticeship programme has rapidly evolved into a leading initiative that supports over 700 apprentices across 250 organisations. Offering pathways in healthcare, management, education, sustainability, digital, and engineering, UEL’s apprenticeships are recognised by numerous professional bodies and consistently outperform national benchmarks. The university’s current Qualification Achievement Rate (QAR) stands at 81.3 per cent, significantly above the national target of 67%.

UEL’s inclusive approach is rooted in its east London identity. The university actively engages with local communities, especially multicultural and underrepresented groups, through partnerships, college roadshows, and community networks. This has been bolstered by dedicated learner support services, with full access to wellbeing, academic tutoring, and disability support.

Daljinder Hopal, Associate Director of Employer Partnerships, said, “Being shortlisted for this award reflects the passion, hard work, and collaboration that define our approach to apprenticeships.

“It’s not just about numbers, it’s about empowering individuals, building futures, and ensuring talent from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive. This recognition reflects the dedication of our incredible team committed to inclusivity, collaboration and celebrating diverse voices. It’s a proud moment for all of us and we will continue to drive positive change through our work.”

UEL’s nomination highlights its growing national recognition, following strong outcomes in its 2023 Ofsted inspection, where apprenticeships were rated “Good”, the second highest ranking.