What relevant experience, skills and qualities do you have that make you a strong candidate for this elected position?
As a graduate of Communications Studies, I offer a multifaceted perspective on the role of President (Education and Welfare). My academic background has sufficiently equipped me with the skills to effectively advocate for student interests and promote welfare initiatives through strategic communication. Also, having previously led a student organisation in my home country and leveraging on my current experience as a student ambassador and course representative, I have developed an understanding of the diverse needs of our student body and have successfully conveyed these needs in various forums to bring inclusive policies and support services. I bring on board my leadership and strategic planning skills, together with a passion for implementing impactful campaigns and projects that improve the student experience. I also have great teamwork skills, which will come in handy when working with other union officers and the university leadership when lobbying for campus jobs and funding avenues.
Priority Aim 1
This policy aims to improve mental, emotional, and physical well-being throughout a student’s university journey. I consider this to be a priority because ensuring the well-being of students is a moral imperative and closely linked with academic excellence. Researchers claim that students who feel supported and mentally well are more likely to perform better academically. Therefore, this policy, when implemented, will reduce the occurrence of academic underachievement and mental health challenges. I will begin this process by gathering data. I will then proceed to engage with the relevant stakeholders to develop policies, allocate resources, and periodically monitor and evaluate progress.
Priority Aim 2
This policy aims to create an inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed academically and personally. This will promote inclusivity, encourage a positive learning environment, and fulfil legal and ethical obligations. This will remove barriers that hinder some students from fully participating in and benefiting from their educational experience. I will work closely with the inclusive and diversity team to come up with a robust plan that will help identify such students and offer them the needed assistance.
Priority Aim 3
This policy will not only supplement student finances but also enhance student work experience, strengthen the bond of community on campus, and reduce the level of stress associated with commuting from school to work. When successful, it will reduce financial hardship, improve the level of employability, and prepare students for their careers. To bring this policy to life, I will conduct surveys and focus group discussions with students to understand their financial needs, preferences for job types, and level of commitment. I will then propose a university-approved recruitment process and collaborate with campus offices for regular monitoring and adjustments.
What is the biggest issue currently facing RGU students, and how will you work with the rest of the Student Presidents and Vice Presidents to tackle this?
Among the many challenges that affect RGU students, according to my interactions, academic pressure leading to mental health issues is the biggest. To tackle this issue, collaboration between the union officers is inevitable, especially between presidents and vice presidents. As a team, we will periodically organise meetings and forums amongst ourselves to share different perspectives on the issue. Through surveys and focus groups, we will gather sufficient information on the root cause and scope of the issue. We will then launch an awareness campaign to educate affected students on the support channels available while soliciting their feedback to gauge effectiveness.