The largest gathering of Muslim students in recent times debated how the diversity amongst them is not an obstruction to engage in wider society.

The Annual Conference of the Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) concluded at the University of Leicester. Over 500 Muslim student representatives and ordinary students from all over the UK and Ireland debated and discussed the challenges and opportunities that they face in utilizing its diversity as a strength to effectively engage in all aspects of society.

A vibrant programme of talks, workshops, sports and entertainment spanning four days saw the events numbers swell significantly from recent years.

The newly re-elected FOSIS President Wakkas Khan commented:

'A Muslim student equipped with a comprehensive understanding of Islam, can be an ambassador of their faith, while at the same time be a constructive member of society. We consider the diversity within our community as a strength that will enable us to contribute to all aspects of society.

We have witnessed at this conference a truly diverse group of students are able to effectively discuss various issues facing not only the Muslim community but the wider society as a whole. The diversity has indeed enriched our discourse and I am confident it will greatly enrich the society that we are part of as well. The spotlight should be shifted onto the academic institutions, civil bodies and the wider society to meet half way with the young Muslims of today who have so much to offer,

Under the title United Colours of Islam, participants heard from an array of prominent international speakers. The workshop titles ranged from 'Make Poverty History' and 'The Year of the Volunteer to 'Managing Diversity' and 'What you can do for your Students Union?'

FOSIS, which this year assembled the largest ever representation of Muslims students at the National Union of Students (NUS) Conference, also discussed civil liberties and political participation.