Waqar Muhammad
International Student Officer
Portfolio Part-Time Officer for 2026/27.
Waqar was elected by SOAS students in October 2026. Part-Time Officers are voluntary roles, around 2–3 hours a week, in post until 31 July 2027.
Contact Waqar
Email 733109@soas.ac.uk
Manifesto
This is the manifesto Waqar stood on in the October 2026 election.
"Many Nations, One Community"
I’m Waqar Mohammad, an MSc Development Economics student at SOAS, and I’m standing for International Students’ Officer in the Students’ Union elections.
As an international student, I understand that studying abroad is more than pursuing a degree. It is about adapting to a new environment, overcoming challenges, building friendships, and finding a sense of belonging away from home.
I believe SOAS should be a place where every international student feels welcomed, supported, represented, and connected.
If elected as International Students’ Officer, I will focus on four priorities.
1. Stronger Representation, Louder Voices
I will work to strengthen communication between international students, the Students’ Union, and university management, creating opportunities for students to share their concerns, contribute ideas, and receive meaningful responses.
2. Making International Student Life Easier
I will advocate for better access to practical guidance on accommodation, visas, part-time employment, financial support, and student wellbeing. I will also encourage peer support to help newly arriving international students settle into life at SOAS.
3. Celebrating Cultures, Building Connections
Our diversity is our strength. I will work towards organising international cultural days, bringing students together through food, music, traditional celebrations, cultural exhibitions, and shared experiences.
I will also encourage collaboration between student societies and regular cultural exchange activities throughout the academic year.
4. Affordable opportunities for everyone
I will advocate for more affordable student activities, better awareness of student discounts and support services, and free or low-cost social and networking opportunities.
My Commitment
I believe representation begins with listening, but meaningful change requires action. I want international students to feel that SOAS is not just where they study, but a community where they truly belong.
Many Nations. One Community. Together at SOAS.
More about this role
Read the Part-Time Officer role descriptions.