British-Pakistani peer Lord Sarfraz named chancellor of University of East London

The University of East London has appointed British-Pakistani businessman and politician Lord Aamer Ahmad Sarfraz as its new chancellor, marking a significant moment for diversity and representation in UK higher education, an official statement said Thursday.

Lord Sarfraz, also known as the Baron of Kensington, is a member of the House of Lords and a prominent voice in business, politics and philanthropy.

He becomes the head of one of London’s most diverse universities at a time of transformation under its Vision 2028 strategy — a 10-year plan to establish UEL as the U.K.’s leading careers-first university.

“I am deeply honored to be the new Chancellor for the University of East London,” Sarfraz said in a statement. “UEL has a proud history of serving its diverse communities, opening doors to opportunity, and equipping students with the skills and mindset to shape the future.”

Born to Pakistani heritage, Lord Sarfraz’s appointment reflects the growing visibility of British-Pakistanis in national institutions.

His professional background includes venture capital and sustainable technology.

He is the founder of NetZeroAg, a company focused on climate-smart agriculture in developing countries. He also advises multiple public tech firms and funds across sectors, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing and electric vehicles.

Sarfraz has also led philanthropic efforts through the Lord Sarfraz Foundation, which focuses on educational access and economic opportunity.

He was nominated to the House of Lords in 2019 and became one of its youngest peers the following year. He has since served as the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Singapore and currently sits on the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy.

“Lord Sarfraz’s appointment is a celebratory moment for the University,” said Professor Amanda Broderick, vice chancellor of UEL.

“His leadership on sustainability mirrors our goal of achieving net zero carbon by 2030. We look forward to working with him to inspire our students and graduates, who make up one of the most diverse populations in UK higher education.”

Sarfraz holds degrees from Boston University, the London School of Economics, and the Royal College of Defense Studies.

His tenure as chancellor will begin during UEL’s “Year of Health,” an initiative aimed at expanding the university’s impact in health, wellbeing and sustainability.

As chancellor, he will serve as UEL’s ambassador, supporting its students, staff and alumni while promoting its mission to transform lives through career-focused education.