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U DECIDE / AGM report - 5th December 2013

Wednesday 18-12-2013 - 14:32

AGM Report – 5th December 2013

UCSU’s Annual General meeting took place on Thursday 5th December. In addition to the usual ‘U-DECIDE’ structure of the meetings, whereby students in attendance vote on various topics put forward by the student body and / or sabbatical team, this meeting was also about celebrating the achievements of both UCSU and the student community throughout the last 12 months.

There were several ideas which attracted a lot of interest from various parts of the student community, and this helped to get over 150 students in attendance.  This in itself is a great achievement, and further clarifies UCSU’s representation of our members. UCSU exists to benefit and enhance the student experience of all our members – wherever they are based, whatever their course or mode of study, and irrespective of age, sex or level of engagement.  Therefore, debating ideas submitted by the student body, and having so many students present to vote on each topic is an essential part of driving democracy at UCSU, and we look forward to delivering actions on the outcome of each vote as soon as possible – we will keep you posted on what happens and when!  Furthermore, we look forward to the next schedule of U-DECIDE meetings, and hope we can continue to attract and engage even more students next time around – if it’s important to you, it’s important to us, so don’t forget you can submit ideas and suggestions at any time for us to consider and include in the agenda for the next meeting.  Have a look at http://www.ucsu.me/main-navigation/student-voice/your-voice to find out how you can put forward your idea(s).

The most contested idea at the recent AGM was the sports team funding issue.  The idea was submitted by a student concerned that the behaviour of some sports teams was inappropriate and affecting the reputation of both the University of Cumbria and UCSU.  The suggestion was made to cut funding to teams which did not adhere to the rules and behavioural expectations outlined by UCSU at the inception of the team.  Following a really healthy debate, which attracted intelligent and thoughtful points on both sides of the argument, the idea was defeated, and therefore there will be no funding cuts.  However, there was a clear standard set of what is considered reasonable behaviour, and thus the sports teams, UCSU and the local community will benefit from the actions taken as a result of the debate – well done students!

Other ideas on the table included Ethical & Environmental Policy, which passed without incident – and confirms UCSU’s recent investment in two new ethical and environmental project coordinators is welcomed and valued by the student body.  The Informal Learning idea also passed with an overwhelming majority, meaning that Academic Sabbatical Officer John Sharp will be implementing a system to promote and facilitate student academic groups and help to source funding for services and events which will enable students to further benefit from their academic studies – inside and outside the classroom.

The Inspirational & Motivational Learning idea also passed – a student had submitted an idea stating that inspirational and motivational quotes from famous philosophers, leaders and thinkers be displayed in communal areas such as corridors to motivate students as they travel around campus.  This was voted for, and will be implemented in 2014.  Student Life Sabbatical Officer Amie Godward amended the outcome slightly, ensuring that at least 50% of the quotes will be from inspirational women.

The Student Safety and Personal Tutor ideas both passed without incident also – meaning that UCSU will continue to create policy which both informs and protects our members on the issue of general student safety – at home, at university and on nights out.  UCSU will also continue to promote the Personal Tutor system as an effective way to communicate and engage with teaching staff, and encourages students to make the most of the system in helping them gain as rewarding an educational experience as possible.

There were also several more informal discussions that took place, including having a permanent UCSU staff or officer presence at Ambleside campus.  This idea was popular among the Ambleside contingent in attendance and UCSU will continue to discuss this internally, and feedback to students in 2014.  There was also a healthy discussion around the UCUM acronym used by many students, teams and the local community in Lancaster.  Whilst no formal decision was made on the use of acronyms, a mature discussion took place in which it was suggested that as sports teams are representing (and funded by) UCSU, they should all use the UCSU name, but ultimately, individuals can refer to themselves or team as they choose.  We hope that common sense will prevail going forward and the majority of teams and societies representing UCSU will adhere to the branding and values we have worked hard to develop.

All in all, a fantastic meeting which saw officers, union staff, university staff and the student body come together to have a healthy and energetic debate which resulted in positive outcomes for all stakeholders – from our students to the residents in the local communities we serve.  A huge thank you to all those attending, it really was a fantastic afternoon, and we’re already excited about the next U DECIDE meeting.  This is your union, you decide how it works, and you really did on the 5th December.  Thank you, and best wishes for a great Christmas and successful 2014.

Best wishes,

Team UCSU.   

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