A BETTER COMMUNITY FOR ALL; YES WE CAN
Introduction
Frank Oduro is my name, a PGT student studying MSc. Policy Evaluation with interests in regional integration and comparative studies. I joined the University of Aberdeen in the early days of October 2022 as an international student. Over the past few months, I have volunteered with the British Heart Foundation Furniture and Electrical Shop on 236 Union St., and a registered volunteer for the British Red Cross. I also volunteered with the Students Union during the Refreshers Welcome Week, and that was an experience to live for. I have led university students back in my home country as National Secretary to facilitate smooth education at the tertiary levels and a member of the National Union of Ghana Student 55th Central Committee to champion education as a right and not a privilege. My activism days began as an undergraduate student and I continue to do so even now, a reason for joining the campaign at Castlegate to call for the continuation of the mental health fund by the Scottish Government as published by The Gaudie on February 15.
What are your three priorities for the year?
- Improve the student community to foster a sense of belonging - The student union keeps improving the student community and giving a platform for interaction, yet, I believe more can be done. Introducing students' week within the semester, for fun activities and also opportunities to help societies, forums, and the RAG to showcase and discuss with students. The Qatar Campus needs representation also.
- Inclusivity and social justice - Continuing campaigns related to human rights, equality, and sustainability; making the university community accessible to all.
- Communication - Improving communication channels and dissemination of information to students. This in turn influences the participation of students in campaigns and activities of the union. Also, setting up a feedback system where necessary.
What unique skill/knowledge can you bring to the role to stand out from the other candidates?
To understand issues, give them a good hearing, and make the necessary impact, communication coupled with observation would be best and relevant for the task ahead. The office of the VP for Communities involves campaigns amongst many others, and these can be done with the necessary skill. Effective communication invites multitudes to join our campaigns, gives us essential feedback, and would be an asset most in negotiation processes; be it with the Scottish Government, City Council, or University Management.
What do you think is the biggest issue that students are facing at the moment and how do you plan to tackle it?
The cost of living crisis is the topical conversation across the United Kingdom now, and students are not left out of it. AUSA and NUS – both Scotland and UK continue to rally and campaign for the Scottish Government and PM Rishi Sunak to help improve the cost of living today.
My approach would be to assist students with the little support we have. Students who would want to work should be helped while studying should be helped by the Student Union. Especially for Tier 4 Visa holders who are limited to 20 hours per week. Moreover, there is an existing swap shop and food hub for students, yet they are hardly in known. Dissemination of information through forums and societies would help bridge the gap.
