The Aura Around Students’ Politics

 

By ARIKANKI Esther

A successful election can pave the way for a more engaged, empowered and responsive student union, ensuring that the voices of all students are heard and valued.

It's the fourth week of the second semester already, fliers adorned with the faces and slogans of aspiring candidates hanging here and there, candidates campaigning. Although it hasn't gotten intense as a lot would still be yet to be uncovered, competition is in the air, and the sound of election keeps drawing near and near. Discussions, debates and informal gatherings are becoming more frequent as students engage in conversations about their preferred candidates. 

The journey towards the election is just beginning. Now the question is, how will it play out? Are students going to be reluctant or portray a sense of political apathy due to the perceived incapability of the student union to fight for their rights? Will they feel that their voices do not matter or that their participation in elections will lead to no meaningful change? This sentiment can result in political apathy, where students disengage rather than invest time and engage in the electoral process.

Other ponding questions are, Will they rally behind candidates who promise a fresh approach and a commitment to address their concerns? Will the upcoming government propose a reduction in the already elevated dues? The direction of the upcoming election hinges on the responses to these vital questions. The ability of candidates to inspire confidence and demonstrate a commitment to addressing students' needs will be instrumental in shaping the upcoming election.

As the awareness season unfolds, the dynamics within the student body will undoubtedly evolve. The active participation of students in the electoral process is crucial. Aspiring candidates have therefore taken up the responsibility of organising tutorials and interactive forums, leveraging social media and campus events to grip the minds of the students by assuring them that there will be more to enjoy and sip in if they emerge as the winner. 

This atmosphere narrows down to the fact that the upcoming election will be a bit more tense than the others as the number of candidates vying for limited positions is unlimited, breeding competition and rivalry. Also, it's a bit surprising that instead of a portrayal of apathy by students in response to the present deeds of the student union government as to their inability to cause a reduction and deduction of the fees to a tangible amount, students are strong, more involved than ever, inclined and enthusiastic. This buttresses more on them not being passive observers but also active participants as they engage in awareness fliers on available surfaces and groups, showing their commitment to politics in the University. This heightened involvement among students is a promising sign of positive change.

As the campaign season approaches, the challenge lies in maintaining this pace and momentum. Candidates must continue to engage with students and demonstrate their commitment to crucial issues by listening to academic concerns and offering actionable solutions that will encourage a positive voter turnout.

As a mixture of excitement and tension grasps the atmosphere, the University community is prepared for a transformative election season that will contribute positively to student politics knowing fully well that the choices made during this election could have lasting implications for the student union and its ability to advocate for students’ rights. Not only that but it affects how the upcoming elections will turn out. The question then is: Will they offer actionable and practical solutions or plans to cause a complete reduction in the tuition fee? Well, we await that during the campaign season.