We Listen, We Judge: A Look at Team Amelioration

By Sanni Juliet Oluwadarapupo

It was a season like this during the last session when political tension reached its peak. Banners and posters were plastered everywhere—on walkways, poles, public transport, and even inside our halls. One might have thought the school was undergoing massive redecoration. The slogans echoed so loudly that they became the only thing we could hear. But when all was said and done, was it truly worth it?

The Students' Union executives are elected representatives who advocate for students' concerns, needs, and interests to the school administration. They organize events, and activities, and provide services to the student body. They are the voice of the students, the channel through which students' needs are heard and addressed. But what happens when our voices go unheard? What can be done when those we see as our hope fall short of expectations? The current "Team Amelioration," led by Aweda Bolaji, has raised many concerns. Compared to previous administrations, students' hopes were reignited only to be let down.

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Communication is crucial as students seek updates about their welfare. Whatever happens at school, whether positive or negative, affects them. But what happens when communication breaks down? The Students' Union executives are the first to receive news, which they are expected to share with the students. Students rely on and await their responses.

Furthermore, the handling of crises such as the light issues and the school fee increase has been a significant point of contention. The expectation that the Students' Union would be more proactive and responsive has not always been met. This has led to frustration and a sense of abandonment among the student body.

"I remember last semester, especially during exams, when we all suffered. I didn't know what was wrong with the campus lights until a day or two later," an unnamed source shared. Another anonymous person noted, "During Sanjay and Gbemi's tenure, when there was a light issue, you could count on them to find a solution. They always send memos promptly. Now, all you see is them driving the bus up and down. Thankfully, I stay in Agbowo." Another person said, "I feel like they were not active in their communication."

The recent increase in school fees, leading to an unplanned three-week break for students to find the money, was a major blow. Many expected a different outcome and felt the situation was poorly handled. "How can you plan a protest in the 9th or 10th week, so close to exams, raising students' hopes? From then, I knew the school fees wouldn't be reversed," an unidentified source expressed. A secret informer added, "I had no idea where to find that kind of money in three weeks. No job could pay that amount in such a short time, and returning to exams made it worse."

Others acknowledged the executives' efforts but recognized the school management's ultimate authority. "Regarding this issue, they tried. This is not easy," an anonymous person said.

While some students were aware of the executives, others questioned their visibility. "As for me, the only people I knew were Oloye and Elemide because they were popular or active. The rest, even the Vice President, I had never heard of until a certain point," an unnamed source shared. Others disagreed, saying, "Some offices may not require much visibility. If you fulfill your duties, you are fine," an anonymous person said.

Organizing events and activities are an integral part of the responsibilities of the Students’ Union executives, with these initiatives part of the budget proposed by them. These initiatives are aimed at engaging, empowering and fostering a sense of community among students. However, matters arise when such events are questioned by the students. A nameless source said, “During the recently concluded SU week, especially the inter-house sports competition, there was no provision of anything. No water or glucose, throughout, and the results were not even announced. It was poorly planned”. “Well as for me, I did not attend their events this session, so I can’t say anything about it”, another undisclosed source said.

When asked the students their opinions about the Students Union executives, anonymous sources expressed;

 “As for me, I have no issues with them, but there was a time when I was experiencing an asthma attack on the road. The people around gathered to help me, but at that moment, the Students Union bus drove past and could not stop to offer help, which was disappointing ”.

 “Well, they are trying their best, even the Vice President has reduced in weight. The only issue I have is the Transport System of the School. For this session, the transportation price has been increased twice, yet, their services are so bad, even when you tell them that it is from the Students’ Union, they do not regard it. I just want that to be addressed”.

As another election approaches, will students believe and vote again? Will their hopes be raised and expectations met? Only time will tell.

An anonymous source stated, "I am not interested in voting in this upcoming election, as their words and actions don't align."