The establishment of student councils plays an integral and important role in the student community. Student councils provide a representative structure through which students can debate issues of concern and undertake initiatives of benefit to the University and the wider community.
Students have a voice and a contribution to make to their University. It is important that they be given the opportunity to express their views on issues of concern to them. It is equally important that they are heared and encouraged to take an active part in promoting the aims and objectives of the University.
The guidelines mentioned in this manual are intended to provide practical guidance to student members in the establishment and operation of the student council.
Students have a voice and a contribution to make to their University. It is important that they be given the opportunity to express their views on issues of concern to them. It is equally important that they are heared and encouraged to take an active part in promoting the aims and objectives of the University.
The establishment of a Student Council gives students an opportunity to acquire the sort of communication, planning and organizational skills which will be of benefit to them in their future lives. It enables students to take responsibility for projects, and to demonstrate that they can manage and bring such projects to a successful conclusion. Moreover, the contributions made by the Student Council towards the development of University policy in a number of areas can have significant benefits for students and the University.
A Student Council sets its own objectives. Some general objectives include:
- To enhance communication between students and stakeholders.
- To promote an environment conducive to educational and Personal development.
- To promote friendship and respect among peers.
- To represent the views of students on matters of general concern to them.
Developing a spirit of partnership and co-operation between Student Council and teachers has benefits for both. The student Council can play an important role in recognizing and supporting the work of teachers. Similarly, the interest and support of teachers will be of great value to the Student Council, particularly during the early stages of its development. It is generally desirable for a member of the teaching staff to attend meetings of the Council. The support and guidance
offered by a teacher will be very useful to the Council when planning its activities.
The functions and activities of a Student Council should support the aims and objectives of the Council and promote development of the University and welfare of its students. In planning and undertaking activities during the course of the year, the Council should:
- Work closely with teachers.
- Consult regularly with students in the University, and
- Involve as many students as possible in the activities of the Council.
There is a wide range of activities of benefit to the University community which a Student Council may wish to undertake, some of which are outlined below:
This should be one of the fundamental aims of every Council. It involves talking and listening to the student body, considering their views and concerns, and discussing these with the University authorities on behalf of the students.
Improving communication within the University community is a shared responsibility and a Student Council can contribute to this process. Making presentations at staff meetings to keep staff informed of activities, keeping a Student Council notice-board or organizing a regular newsletter are just some ways the Council can communicate with the students and staff.
The Student Council can contribute to the learning environment for students in the University.
Starting University life is a challenging new experience for 1st Year students. During the mentoring programme senior students help new students to find their feet and can help their integration into the University community.
The Student Council can actively contribute to the development of University policy in a wide range of areas such as ragging, behavior code and extra-curricular activities. The Council could form sub-committees to consider individual policy issues.
Student Councils can assist in organizing and developing sports and cultural activities within the University, including, for example, sports days and drama or musical events.
The Student Council represents all students in the University. It is very important that students receive regular information on the plans and activities of the Student Council and that as many students as possible participate in events organized by the Council. Each member of the Council has a special responsibility and should ensure that their views are brought to the attention of the Council and that they remain fully informed of the Council’s activities.
Procedures should be put in place to ensure that all students are fully informed about Council activities. One way of ensuring this would be to provide for regular meetings between individual members of the Student Council.
Regular communication between the Student Council and authorities, Vice Chancellor and staff provides the basis for building a good and lasting relationship, based on trust and respect, between students and the rest of the University community. Much can be achieved where all members of the University community work together towards common goals, and good communication is vital if a common understanding is to be reached on what those goals are, and how best to achieve them.
Good communication doesn’t simply mean keeping everyone informed of planned activities; it also involves seeking their views and suggestions. It means consulting with, and sharing ideas with the management, Vice Chancellor and staff members and listening to their suggestions and making sure that all sections of the University community understand the purpose and goals of the Student Council.
