A new petition calling for reform of the curriculum to include Afro-Scottish history has been lodged by supermodel and campaigner Eunice Olumide.

The petition also asks supporters to share their views on what should be included “to ensure a full account of Afro-Scottish history is taught”.

In the background to her parliamentary petition, Ms Olumide (pictured) says she was “horrified by the recent conflicts in America, sparked by the killing of George Floyd, fanned by hundreds of years of oppression and racism”.

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She writes: “It is easy to think that this does not happen here but, in fact, statistics and personal accounts prove otherwise. When black parents have ‘the talk’ with their sons or daughters, it is often about what to do when you are racially abused, attacked or assaulted.

“It can be argued that much of the discrimination and racism faced by Afro-Scots is due to the poor levels of education on the history of the transatlantic slave trade and Scotland’s role, and how Scotland benefited economically from this.

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“The current national curriculum also does not highlight the many prominent Afro-Scottish and black British figures who have contributed significantly and positively not only to Scotland but to the UK as a whole.

“I believe this has led to racial profiling, physical and mental abuse, and to Afro-Scots being less likely to be recruited after achieving a degree.”

Ms Olumide - who was made an MBE in 2017 for her contribution to arts, broadcasting and charity - adds: “I am calling for a commitment and pledge from policymakers for pro-active anti-racist action.

“In recognition of these historic times, a meaningful step that can be taken is the implementation of a thorough and robust account of Afro-Scottish history through the national education system.”

The petition itself states: “Calling on the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish government to reform the national curriculum to include Afro-Scottish history including artefacts of African diaspora, cultural and economic contributions, the role of the British Empire and the benefits to Scotland from colonies of the Caribbean and Africa.”

The petition can be viewed on the Scottish Parliament website.