Hello Everyone,

My name is Subuola Elufioye, and I am running for the position of Vice President (Education) in the forthcoming student union election.

These are some of my achievements in the last 8 months: 

• Leading discussions to resolve problems with timetable scheduling, hybrid learning, and module choice (ongoing).
• Facilitated the sourcing of funds and awarding of scholarships to well-deserving students through the WEST (Widening Education and Supporting Talent) Scholarship Programme.
• Facilitated the provision of free teas/coffee in the union spaces and the provision of microwaves to support students through the cost-of-living crisis.
• I have collaborated with the university's registry team to ensure that the enrolment process is improved and lobbied for students to receive recognition for their extra-curricular activities.
• Actively engaged in an ongoing conversation to address the transportation challenges faced by students traveling to the Lanarkshire campus and exploring transport solutions to ease the burden during the cost-of-living crisis.
• Pushed for a more accessible and inclusive campus for all students such as the provision of and access to hearing assistive technologies for students with hearing disabilities.
• Working to unify/enhance the platforms used to communicate and learn, such as Aula, Teams, Zoom, and Moodle.

Building on these and drawing from my experience as a student, course rep, and sabbatical officer, I would like to focus on four key initiatives:

1.  Academic support initiatives: Prioritize the development of targeted academic support initiatives such as tutoring and academic advising/support to help ensure students are not struggling through their programs.
2. Career development opportunities: Prioritize initiatives that enhance career development opportunities for students such as creating more opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and co-op programs, as well as collaborating with academic departments to develop courses that integrate real-world skills and knowledge into their curriculums.
3. Advocacy for accessible education: As a student-focused candidate, I believe that education is a fundamental right, and all students should have access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background. I pledge to work diligently to reduce/break down the barriers that hinder access to education and create a level playing field for all students by expanding financial aid and creating affordable payment plans, among other solutions.
4. Promoting Student Engagement: I plan to encourage student involvement in decision-making processes, foster a sense of community, and promote active participation in campus activities. I will work closely with student organizations and academic departments to create more opportunities for student engagement and participation in all aspects of campus life.

If I were to be elected, there are many things that I would like to see through, and the following are just a few examples. But this campaign is not just about what I want, it is about what we as students want. It is about our learning experience at UWS and how to make it better. 

"Let's ace education together! "

"Vote Subuola Elufioye for VP Education!"