What relevant experience, skills and qualities do you have that make you a strong candidate for this elected position?
I am Ekene Osaje a post-graduate student from the Aberdeen Business School, studying Business with Human Resource Management. I am running for the position of Vice President Community. I have had the honour of serving in various capacities from my previous roles. This includes managing teams, departments and collaboratively developing projects with members from different background, enabling me gain good understanding of inclusion and diversity. In addition to these experiences, RGU has given me a platform to further improve my competencies for effective service.
As the community representative, I believe in the power of people coming together to create positive change, according to the words of Brian Solis "Community is much more than belonging to something; it is about doing something together that makes belonging matter." We have what it takes and with everyone’s support we can achieve our goals. To this end, I am committed to three priorities.
Priority Aim 1
Students wellbeing: This is to cater for students wellbeing by promoting inclusivity and diversity. Students are faced with different difficulties of student life at various stages of their learning process. With the current changing environment, increasing cost of living and expectations, students are constantly emotionally and psychologically impacted, leading to mental health concerns. If elected, I will work with the executive team to encourage the participation of everyone in the community regardless of their background in programmes and initiative that will be geared towards dealing with these challenges in order to have a fulfilling student experience.
Priority Aim 2
Community engagement: I believe that collaboration is the key to achieving success. As students, most of us have been faced with challenges of accommodation and transportation. RGU is host to thousands of students from over 100 countries. Leveraging on the ongoing interventions, I will engage with the relevant authority to establish connections with organisations, agencies, and stakeholders to support the school community.
Priority Aim 3
Sustainability: In my opinion, our actions should be guided by a long-term vision for sustainability which is our primary source of inspiration as members of the community, the earth. RGU is strategically committed to reducing environmental impact through various intervention and programmes. I am convinced that managing climate change is a team effort that requires everyone's cooperation in order to accomplish a better environment. Subsequent generations will benefit from my devotion to fostering a sustainable environment because I will work with the executives to implement initiatives that are environmentally, socially and economically sustainable that will benefit our environment.
What is the biggest issue currently facing RGU students, and how will you work with the rest of the Student Presidents and Vice Presidents to tackle this?
As highlighted above, RGU is host to students from various parts of the world and this includes both young and old. The unique challenge encountered by students irrespective of age and background ranges from mental health issues to work life balance. I am dedicated to the priorities and values highlighted above. If voted, I will work collaboratively with other members of the student union to create a better and supportive community for everyone through innovative programmes and effective communication that will enhance inclusion and diversity. YOU WANT SOMETHING DONE? EKENE IS THE ONE!