PRINCESS ONYINYECHI UKANWA

INTRODUCING MYSELF

I have a question for you. Do you believe, like I do, that all students deserve the opportunity to be heard, and the opinions of students should be held with high importance? Imagine having a student union that is transparent and inclusive; a student union that you can rely on. If these points align with your views, then allow me to introduce myself. My name is Princess Ukanwa. I am an undergraduate Computer Science student, and I am contesting for the role of President of Communication and Democracy. 

WHAT MAKES ME UNIQUE

With the nationality of a Scot but the ethnicity of an African, in many ways, I consider myself a mix of 2 worlds. This gives me an edge as I have the perspective to tackle issues relevant to both local and international students. 

MY EXPERIENCE IN LEADERSHIP

I am the current President of the Nigerian Student Society. My role requires me to advocate and support many students as well as organise events, both social and academic. The society has been shortlisted for the ‘Most Improved’ award this year. I was the Class Representative for my course and liaised with lecturers at SSLC meetings on behalf of my peers. Also, I was a Welcome Buddy in 2021 and was nominated for 'Buddy of the Year'. I have also been shortlisted for the Student Achievement Award 2022 for 'Society Person of the Year'.

WHAT I AM TO ACHIEVE

1. A VIBRANT RGU

Aim: To create a vibrant RGU both on-campus and online.

Proposal:

• Weekly social media challenges to encourage students to interact with the RGU Student Union social platforms.
• Make greater use of social media platforms to promote communication and involve students in designing and developing content.
• Initiate university-wide events such as an “RGU Poetry Project” and “The Big Pub Quiz” in collaboration with society, clubs, and network leaders.

2. SOCIETIES, NETWORKS AND GROUPS

Aims: To increase society visibility and student awareness while providing societies with the resources and funding opportunities necessary for growth.

Proposal:

• Create a society specific contact directory on the RGU Union website to simplify the communication between societies, the students and the union. 
• Petitioning for adequate training for society executives to equip them with skills such as promotion and marketing. 
• Create more platforms and occasions for societies to raise awareness, gain publicity and raise funds for their association. For example, the creation of a “Society Spotlight” and a “Fundraising Fair” day. 

3. COMMUNICATION AND FEEDBACK

Aim: Create a culture of communication and feedback. Reduce the stigma around students voicing their opinions.

Proposal: 

• Collaborate with RGU Peer Support to start ‘Feedback Fridays’ in the Union.
• Make feedback methods/channels easily accessible and available in various formats to increase ease of use.
• ‘Check ins’ before classes, both online and in-person by utilising anonymous feedback platforms.

4. SOCIAL SPACES

Aim: To create an engaging social environment by renovating unused campus spaces for social activities. 

Proposal:

• Continue the work being done to increase social space on campus to host activities. For example, advocate for a break room in every department, crafts room, and family-friendly areas where student parents can interact on campus with their children, particularly for early mothers.

5. FOOD AND DRINKS ON RGU CAMPUS

Aim: To meet the nourishment needs of every member of our diverse student base.

Proposal:

• Well-placed vending machines to provide food and drinks with the availability of vegan and vegetarian options.
• Lobby for more water fountains around the campus to promote hydration.
• Diverse snacks to promote inclusivity and highlight the plethora of cultures in RGU.

6. RGU MERCHANDISE

 Aim:  To provide more RGU branded merchandise for students.

 Proposal:

• Availability of free RGU merchandise in goodie bags for freshers to feel welcomed and kindle a sense of community at RGU 
• Increase the availability and versatility of RGU merchandise that can be bought in the Student Union on campus and via the website.

To close things off, I believe RGU is what you make of it. Let us work together to make the year memorable. Vote Princess for President to SEE: Support, Empathy and Effective Communication in every action I take in the best interest of students.

Find more information about me, my aims, and objectives on Instagram: @princess4prescd or email me at: princess4pres@gmail.com.