Dr. Aicha Bahij

Biography

I am a Lecturer in the Department of Sociology and Criminology at the University of Bradford, where I also serve as Programme Leader for the Foundation Year. I lead several modules including Health in Society, Gender and Sexuality, The Sociological Imagination, and Critical Study Skills. My teaching spans sociological theory, intersectionality, feminist thought, health inequalities and the lived realities of race, gender, culture and belonging. Drawing on my background in TESOL and arts-based methods, I design inclusive, creative and student-centred learning experiences that respond to the needs of diverse learners.

My academic journey began with a deep interest in my own history and decolonial narratives, which led to my PhD at the University of Bradford titled The Socio-Economic Legacy of French Colonialism in Morocco (2012). In that research, I combined archival analysis with oral histories to explore the enduring impacts of colonial policy on Moroccan trade, agriculture, education and identity.

My research and creative interests often intersect. My latest project, The Colour and The Space, is an arts-based participatory research project that explores the experiences of Muslim women on campus. Through a series of screen-printing workshops and collaborative exhibitions, participants visualise their personal narratives, reimagine belonging and challenge exclusionary spaces through art.

I’ve also delivered several public art and community projects across Bradford, including Bradford, I Love You!, The Human Seasons mural at Cartwright Hall, and This is the Home of Change with Impact Hub Bradford—each project celebrating local heritage, female empowerment and community expression. I use my art as a tool for inclusion, visibility and social commentary, contributing to Bradford’s cultural landscape in meaningful and creative ways.

My background in teaching English to speakers of other languages has significantly shaped my pedagogical philosophy. I use multimodal, engaging methods grounded in the VARK learning preferences model and often incorporate storytelling, humour and cultural context into my lessons to ensure they are meaningful and empowering for every learner.

For more information about my work, you can visit my website: aichabahij.com

Research

My research sits at the intersection of sociology, decolonial studies and creative practice. I explore themes of identity, belonging, race, gender and postcolonial legacies, often through participatory and arts-based methods. My PhD focused on the socio-economic impact of French colonialism in Morocco, and I continue to investigate how cultural memory and colonial histories shape contemporary lived experiences. Projects like The Colour and The Space allow me to merge research with art and storytelling to centre the voices of Muslim women and challenge exclusionary spaces. I’m particularly interested in how creative practice can support visibility, inclusivity and transformation within both public and academic spaces.

Teaching

Modules

• The Sociological Imagination - SAC3002-B
• Health in Society: Community Care Perspectives - SAC6026-B
• Critical Study Skills - SAC4019-B
• Gender and Sexuality: Concepts and Applications - SAC5024-B