Dear All,

I want to take this opportunity to inform you all that I will be campaigning for the position of President in the upcoming Student Union election. Throughout my academic life, I’ve actively worked with members of student union at different capacities being the voice of fellow students and representing them at local and national levels. I would like to utilise my past experiences alongside new challenges and responsibilities to ensure that both international and home students have a wonderful time at UWS.

During my tenure as president, I will be addressing some of the issues which are below:

1. Balanced Course Timetable: advocating for balanced course timetables that accommodate parents, carers and students with special needs alongside recorded lectures and flexible learning options to improve accessibility. Where possible opting for few but full lecture days rather than having short but daily classes. By doing so, students can use extra off days to work on their assignments or engage in extracurricular activities.
2. Career Opportunities: Organising CV and interview workshops to help students stand out in the market. Inviting UWS Alumni and Industry experts to give career advice, tips and an insight into real work environments. This will provide networking opportunities for students with industry experts. Encourage networking with potential employers via platforms such as LinkedIn.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: I believe having people with different backgrounds as advantageous as it generates beneficial ideas from different perspectives. Promoting diversity and inclusion by celebrating events such as cultural, disability and Pride month in collaboration with other societies, ensuring every student feels welcomed, represented and their voices heard irrespective of their background.
4. Workshops: The rise in cost of living along with added pressure from assignments and exams has made life very difficult for some students. Therefore, hosting finance and stress management workshops while informing students about available financial and mental support within the university.
5. Mental Health: Encouraging students to speak up and seek help when needed whilst ensuring their confidentiality is protected. Inviting mental health professionals and running Mental Health Awareness campaigns in university for students in need of mental support. Advertising relevant information and contact numbers via social media, posters and flyers so that students can have easy access within university especially during exam periods or when they need help.

I believe together we can make UWS a better place for present and future students. I hope you will vote for me, and I look forward to serving as your President for 2025/2026.

Thank you.

Guman Sing Lingden (Candidate for Student Union President)