Issue 1132, Monday February 25 - Election Manifestos inside by Cardiff Student Media

rhifyn 1132 issue 1132

gair rhydd

25 chwefror 2019 25 february 2019

Check out Gair Rhydd online

Cardiff University’s student paper | Established 1972

Transforming Cardiff: Cuts to fix £21m deficit T

Election Week: Candidate Question time by Sam Tilley

his week is ‘Election Week’ in the Students’ Union, with Candidate Question Time being held as two separate events last week. We have caught you up on the topics making their way into the realm 4 of student politics.

Formula 1 Season Preview by Sam Saunders

head of the season opener in Melbourne on March 17, resident Advice Columnist turns his hand to preview the upcoming Formula 1 season. With a break down of the teams, turn to page 28 to read up on their expected performance. 28

Are a third of Britons really Islamophobic? by Yasmin Begum

recent report from ‘Hope Not Hate’ has found that a third of Britons believe Islam threatens the British way of life. Our Comment section debate the validity of this report, and the implications it has for the 14 UK.

Changing Cardiff Uni: The Vice Chancellor of Cardiff University put forward plans to cut jobs and merge schools in the Transforming Cardiff consultation event. Photo Credit from Left to Bottom Right: Colin Smith via Geograph, Kevin Schneider via Pixabay, Tomos Evans. by Hallum Cowell

he governing Council of the University has tasked people like Professor Colin Riordan, Vice Chancellor, to make Cardiff University a “financially stable organisation”. Transforming Cardiff is, as Professor Riordan said, “a direction of travel” and “not a fully formed plan”. Professor Riordan also called the current situation around universities a “high risk environment,” referring to Brexit, last year’s industrial action over pensions, among other factors. The Vice Chancellor also said that the new direction was “not about cutting” but “about reducing the rate of [cost] increase”. Transforming Cardiff is based upon five “pillars”; organisational change, transforming services, education, research and estate. The two main ways the University plans on reducing these costs is to have a “gradual reduction in staffing levels

over five years” and by increasing income from research by 25%. Including this current academic year, Cardiff University has been running a deficit for three years. This has been the result of higher than expected cost increases and lower than expected income increases. For example; in 2017/18 costs increased by 5.2% but income only increased by 2.5%. The Transforming Cardiff “Direction of travel” has been planned out for two years and has only now been voted upon by the council and released. President of the Students’ Union Fadhila Al Dhahouri said that she voted against this proposal. She said: “the main focus is to ensure a high quality of student experience and satisfaction; these ideals should be at the heart of any plan”. She then added “financial gain should not be placed before it”. One of the more contentious ideas

in the document, which might affect students most, is to combine schools. The English school is planned to be merged with those of modern foreign languages and Welsh. These schools would combine to create the School of ‘Literature, Languages and Creative Practices’. In addition, a “reconfiguration” of the School of Healthcare Sciences is being argued by the University to be “part of a natural process”. Discussing the changes, a Cardiff University spokesperson said “Our intention, should this idea progress, is to preserve the distinct identity of the School of Welsh while allowing it to benefit from being part of a larger grouping of disciplines with which it shares significant interests. We hope to enhance research and teaching through more opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.” Furthermore, a spokesperson mentioned that another idea being

considered is “a shared Geography undergraduate programme between the School of Earth and Ocean Sciences and the School of Geography and Planning, covering both human and physical geography. This is an idea that we will consult carefully on with both staff and students as we progress. We will maintain the student experience of current students as we develop new ideas for the future.” At the talk, the Vice Chancellor also expressed that there were also “options for reducing the Optometry footprint on Maindy Road allowing the better sharing of resources” which could result in the part of full “co-location” of the schools of Optometry and vision sciences and the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Continues on Page 3.

Post University Relationships by Katie Lewis

ith graduation nearing the horizon for many students in their final year, no doubt the question spiralling in the minds of students in relationships is what happens next? Our Advice desk unpick some of the potential scenarios 22 this week.

EDITORIAL

Gair Rhydd 2018/19 Coordinator Elaine Morgan

Editor-in-Chief Jess Warren

Deputy Editors Silvia Martelli Reece Chambers Michael Ash

Head of Digital Media Michael Ash

News

Gee Harland Indigo Jones Emma Ogao Matt Tomlin

Campus Life Ashley Boyle Cerian Jones

Taf-od

Llion Carbis Tomos Evans

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com

word

the free

A letter from the editor

You thought your overdraft was bad, look at Cardiff University’s

Comment

Alys Hewitt Hannah Newberry Emma Videan

Column Road Karis Pearson

Politics

Charlotte King Silvia Martelli Lowri Pitcher Sam Tilley

Advice

Ashavari Baral Katie Lewis

Saunders’ Corner

Sam Saunders

Science

Daniel Brown Jonathan Learmont

Sport

Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Laura Price Jack Vavasour George Willoughby

Social Media Editors Indigo Jones Giovanna Coi

Digital Media Editors Maisie Marston Jordan Parker Cadi Thomas

Copy Editors

Sofia Brizio Ilona Cabral Chris Colbourn Abi Dudbridge Elen Fflur Davies Gemma Hopley Steph Rowe

Write to the editor editor@gairrhydd.com

At Gair Rhydd we take seriously our responsibility to maintain the highest possible standards. We may occasionally make mistakes, however if you believe we have fallen below the standards we seek to uphold, please email editor@gairrhydd.com. You can view our Ethical Policy Statement and Complaints Procedure at cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk/complaints. Opinions expressed in editorials are not reflective of Cardiff Student Media, who act as the publisher of Gair Rhydd in legal terms, and should not be considered official communications or the organisation’s stance. Gair Rhydd is a Post Office registered newspaper.

Operating at a loss: Transforming Cardiff is an optimistic plan to overhaul the University’s finances. Source: David Meenagh (via Flickr) by Jess Warren

his academic year’s AGM saw the announcement that Cardiff University have been operating at a £21 million deficit. Following on from this shocking revelation students and staff alike, have been questioning how this worrying financial situation will be resolved. In recent weeks, the Transforming Cardiff plan has been announced. This aims to tackle the deficit issue with a series of controversial changes to the structure and functioning of Cardiff University. Some of these changes include the merging of academic schools; most notably the merging of existing Schools of English, Communication & Philosophy, Modern Languages and Welsh/ Y Gymraeg into a new School of Literatures, Languages and Creative Practice. Other changes include voluntary

redundancies with a plan to capitalise on annual staff turnover, thus subsequently not rehiring for any positions that will become vacant. Most of the plans to save and pool together staff resources come from the merging of academic schools and student hubs, which will have interesting implications for the functioning and smooth running of individual schools. Currently, it is hard to know how these changes are going to impact students and academic staff. The plan only recently emerged, with the opportunity to ask the Vice Chancellor any questions at last week’s Transforming Cardiff event. Evidently, this is the biggest change the University will have seen in at least a decade. With such changes affecting our institution, Transforming Cardiff has been widely discussed in this week’s issue. But the Transforming Cardiff plan

is not all negative; part of the plan outlines aims to increase academic research and grow the institution as a knowledge generator, maintaining its status as a high achieving Russell Group University. Whether this will be achievable alongside cut backs is uncertain, but the bold claims made by the University suggest it is feasible, hoping to drive forward investment, innovation and opportunity. As a third year student who studies Human Geography, the reason I came to Cardiff University was because of the independent schools for Human and Physical Geography, something that appealed to many other students. Included in the plan is an aim to merge these two schools which are more dissimilar than one might think. Luckily this will not affect my degree, being only a few months shy of graduation. However, for the prospective and current students

who have many more years of study left, the merging of these two schools will provide an interesting point of contention. I understand the need to resolve this rather sticky financial situation, I certainly would not want to be facing a deficit of £21 million in my personal bank account. I could understand a slight under or over payment here or there, after all everyone makes mistakes, but I find it hard to believe this is a mistake. And I wonder how we reached this state in the first place. With approximately 30,000 students paying fees ranging from £3000 to over £10,000 for international students, this begs the question as to where the money has gone. Is the gleaming glass frontage of the Centre for Student Life just a facade for the institution’s crumbling financial situation?

What you need to know about Gair Rhydd | your student newspaper here at Cardiff University

We are your student voice Editorially independent and funded by your Students’ Union

Anybody at Cardiff University can

write for us

Simply join the Gair Rhydd Contributors 2018/19 page on Facebook

In print weekly and always online we are printed weekly on a Monday, available for free across campus and online at gairrhydd.com

8 desks

We cover a vast range of content, as you’ll see. You are always welcome to contact any one of

our desks, and you can find us on the 3rd floor of the

Students’ Union

by Maisie Marston

n March 2017, protesters cut through Stansted airport’s perimeter fence in order to stop a jet filled with people from UK detention centres to be repatriated in Africa. The protesters, dubbed the ‘Stansted 15’, locked themselves together underneath the wing of the plane, causing the runway to be closed for over an hour. As a consequence, 19 inbound flights had to be diverted and there was a loss of more than £1m to undisclosed parties. One of the protestors was Dr Emma Hughes; an ex-staff member from Cardiff University’s school of Journalism, Media and Culture. Writing in The Guardian, Hughes said that the group had been “treated like terrorists”. Despite the group having carried out a peaceful protest, they were

15 Protestors involved: They helped 11 people win appeals by stopping a deportation plane. Source: Kristian Buus (via Getty Images) convicted of the serious terror-related offence ‘endangering safety at aerodromes’. During the trial there was the pos-

by Charlotte Raymond

he decline of these eagles has been a consequence of a loss of their natural habitats and also due to human persecution. However, researchers at Cardiff University are examining whether or not contemporary Welsh society would be suitable enough to reintroduce these eagles into. It must be acknowledged that whilst the research project is in the early stages of development, if reintroduction of these eagles is deemed suitable, the process would consist of licencing and also a consultation. The possibility of bringing eagles to Wales has many potential benefits. Eagle Reintroduction Wales Project researcher, Sophie-lee Williams, expressed that: “The project could bring far-reaching benefits:

restoring Wales’ diminished biodiversity, regenerating local economies and aiding the conservation status of both the Golden and White-tailed eagles”. It is thought that the project could have potential to assist in conserving these eagles not only at a national level, yet also an international level. Projects of this nature have been conducted in other parts of the UK and also in Ireland. The reintroduction of the White-tailed eagles on the west coast of Scotland, is estimated to have brought an extra 1.4 million visitors to the region each year, whilst increased tourism has produced up to £5 million in additional revenue, and is thought to have created as many as 110 new jobs.

Where eagles dare: A coup for the recovery of Welsh biodiversity. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

by Hallum Cowell

deficit

Continued from front page

he Students’ Union reacted to Transforming Cardiff with an open letter which Professor Riordan has promised to respond to. The letter focuses on the failings of the “direction of travel” and talks of their worry about “disruption to students within these named schools”. The letter asks that “student services should be completely protected from any cuts”. The letter continues to say: “[we are] concerned that an increase in staff workload will result in reduced contact hours” and that “the Union is continually concerned that the current provisions… for international cohorts are insufficient”. The letter finishes by asking for students to be more involved in the development of Transforming Cardiff. In the Question and Answer session a lot of additional concerns were raised. The first issue raised was “why hasn’t there been a student or staff consolation, or a plan sent out about the consolidation of the School of English, Philosophy, Languages and Welsh? And why those schools in particular?” To which the Vice Chancellor replied: “The proposal has come from the college of arts, humanities and social sciences.” He then added, “I very deliberately called it a direction of travel… so there is every opportunity now to engage with staff

and students”. Later another key question asked was “You mentioned increasing staff costs. Vice Chancellor salaries have increased an average of 13% since 2009, last year I believe you received a 14% pay rise equalling £42,000… how can you justify rolling out the third voluntary severance package in six years and the possibility of compulsory redundancies”. The Vice Chancellor then responded: “There will be no pay cuts to staff...in terms of staff costs they will continue to rise but less than before mainly by controlling the numbers of [new] staff...I didn’t get a £42,000 pay rise, I’m not sure where that came from...I haven’t had any pay rise apart from what everyone else got since I started in 2012” and “I haven’t pushed for a higher salary, haven’t received one”. Other concerns were raised over the future security of Occupatitional Studies in the School of Medical Science, with the threat of industrial action if it were removed. The University was unable to guarantee that the subject would stay as the contract with the NHS is up for renewal and renegotiation for the whole School and as such some things may change. Professor Gary F. Baxter; pro-vice chancellor of the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, who was answering the question added “we can’t be everything to everyone”.

To contact our news desk, drop us an email at news@gairrhydd.com

Conservationists aim to reintroduce the birds-of-prey

Transforming Cardiff: Cuts to fix £21 million

NEWS

New research in Wales could bring back lost species of eagle

sibility of a life imprisonment, but Judge Christopher Morgan accepted that the group’s “intentions were to demonstrate” so many of the protest-

ers are to serve community service, with three given suspended sentences. They have already launched an appeal against the ruling which has been supported by Amnesty International. The organisation believes that the decision to charge them in this way instead of as aggravated trespass is a “crushing blow to human rights in the UK”. Cardiff University lecturers and academic colleagues have also come together to condemn the decision, saying that the law used is “grossly disproportionate and a real threat to every citizen’s right to protest”. Since the event, 11 of the passengers on-board the flight have won their appeals to stay in the UK, and the process the government uses has been deemed illegal by the Supreme Court.

NEWYDDION

The protesters are now dubbed the Stansted 15 for locking themselves under the wing of the plane

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/news

Protesters stop a plane carrying people from UK Detention Centres

Your news desk Gee Harland Emma Ogao Matt Tomlin Indigo Jones

NEWS

Police investigation underway following theft at Liberty Bridge by Emma Ogao

outh Wales Police are currently investigating an incident at Liberty Bridge where two non-residents gained access to the student accommodation and stole a PlayStation 4. The incident, which occurred on 15th February, comes following growing concerns over security in city centre student accommodations. The current security system at Liberty Bridge, like in many student halls, is key card entry accompanied with on-site security personnel and CCTV surveillance. It is believed that the two individuals were able to bypass these security measures by masking as residents, before proceeding to the common room situated on the 5th floor of the high-rise building and stealing the gaming console. The manner in which the two individuals were able to bypass several security measures in place has left many residents baffled, with many speculating they may have had knowledge of the building from being on the premises several times prior to the incident occurring. “Pretty baffled at how someone can walk into the common room, yank the PS4 off the wall and walk out right in front of reception” expressed one resident “It’s not just a tiny issue, it’s dangerous and I’m not paying £6000 to live somewhere that’s unsafe”. “Why doesn’t the door shut properly? Why isn’t security watching who is coming in and out of the building?” pondered another. In a statement released to residents, Liberty Bridge have stressed that they “take security very seriously”, and have reiterated the importance of residents checking who is behind them when entering the building, as well as speaking with security if anyone suspicious is spotted on the premises. However, with over 600 students living in the high-rise building, from three of the universities in Cardiff, many students find it tricky to differentiate between fellow residents who they have never seen before, and non-residents that have managed to gain unauthorised access the building. “The whole thing is that so many people come in and out the building every single day, and I’m not going to stand there and ask people for proof that they’re a resident if I’ve never seen them before” says Beth Greenwood. “There’s 600 of us in the building, I have no doubt I haven’t seen every single person”. An investigation into the incident is currently on-going.

Liberty Bridge. Photo Credit: Jaggery (via Geograph)

Plans for Cardiff airport routes have been blocked by Welsh ministers Plans to increase the number of domestic routes from Cardiff Airport are being put on hold by the UK government

by Suzannah Murphy

he Welsh Government have sent an application to the UK Government, expecting approval from the European Commission. However, Welsh ministers declined the application, without substantial explanation from the UK Government. The plans had hoped to see more direct routes connecting the Welsh capital to cities across the UK, as well as placing these routes under the ‘public service obligation scheme’. The scheme could have removed air passenger duty from return flights, saving each passenger £26 from the cost of flights. The purpose of the ‘Public Service Obligation Scheme’ is to support services that are deemed essential. In this case, connecting regions across the UK whilst also increasing overall connectivity of airports, benefiting long haul flight destinations. New destinations from Cardiff laid out in the proposal included: Manchester, Leeds-Bradford, Humberside, London, Newquay, Inverness and Norwich. The plan also included doubling the daily return service to Glasgow, and creating a direct route to Aberdeen. The Department for Transport said in a statement: “The UK government will continue to engage with both the Welsh Government and

Cardiff Airport: Welsh ministers ban plans for new routes. Photo Credit: M J Richardson via Wikimedia Commons Cardiff Airport to ensure their views are considered before publishing the Government’s policy on Public Service Obligations in the Aviation 2050 White Paper last this year.”

The creation of the Aviation 2050 plan would put Wales’ aviation interests into consideration when outlining the rest of the UK’s goals and strategies.

The Welsh Government hopes that cross-party discussions of Welsh travel needs shall continue in the UK, despite ministers’ silence about their reasons for rejecting the application.

Candidate Question Time

The student election campaign held the first of two ‘Candidate Question Time’ events. by Sam Tilley

he candidates on Tuesday were vying for the positions of Vice President Societies, Welfare, Heath Park and Education and the BME, Environmental, Disabilities, Mental Health and Welsh Language Officers. The turnout for the event was strong and with 58 candidates in total for all positions, the evening was long but highly informative. The format of the event was somewhat similar to BBC’s Question Time with each candidate being given 20 seconds to introduce themselves and their three top policies. There were five pre-prepared questions and all candidates had to answer two of the five; the order in which they answered being established by a random-number generator. Each candidate was then given 30 seconds to reply to each of the questions. A question from the audience was then selected and, again, candidates were given 30 seconds to reply. The two candidates for BME Officer both chose to answer the question regarding reducing stigma around speaking about race. Both suggested

a more open dialogue between students, including the establishing of certain “safe spaces” where race could be discussed. Other issues discussed included microaggressions towards race and institutional racism. Although there were five candidates for Environmental Officer, only two appeared to answer questions. Nevertheless, some highly important issues were brought up including single-use plastics, food waste and vegan options at Y Plas. Again, both candidates chose to answer the same questions, challenging the ways in which the SU can implement energy saving measures and how student support should be mobilised. Only one candidate stood for the position of Welsh Officer, though he made sure to impress upon the audience the steps that the Welsh language has taken in recent years. Despite this, he argued that more should be done to increase visibility of the language. Again, only one candidate spoke for the role of Mental Health Officer although three have been nominated. Despite this, one of the absent candidates submitted answers

to the pre-selected questions. Both candidates argued for greater mental health awareness and training as well as more services being in place to support students. There were no candidates at the event who had put themselves forward for the role of Disabilities Officer. The most applied-for position, VP Education, featured a large range of answers on topics as diverse as increasing student feedback to supporting postgraduate students who teach. The thirteen candidates who had put themselves forward also discussed improving teaching standards and the personal tutor system. The contenders for VP Welfare spoke about involving more campaign officers in student campaigns and the stark divides between the Heath Park campus and Cathays. The latter became a recurring theme during the evening as candidates applying for all positions. During the questions for VP Society hopefuls, a lot was made of the new society tier structure being unfair and its shortcomings. Most of the candidates agreed that it wasn’t work-

ing although most did not suggest a replacement. The candidate for VP Heath Park Campus spoke about the need for greater communication between students on placement years and the student union. The Student Elections take place from Monday 25th February until Friday 1st March.

Front of a busy SU: The Student Union Elections will be taking place this week. Photo Credit: Gair Rhydd via Xpress Radio

CELEBRATING CULTURE & DIVERSITY FRIDAY 22ND MARCH 19:00-22:00, GREAT HALL

Cardiff hosts several science talks and interactive workshops across the city

by Ashley Boyle

his weekend, from Thursday the 28th to Sunday the 3rd, several venues across Cardiff are scheduled to host a variety of science themed events, many of which being free. The festival hopes to educate and inspire those who attend on topics including science, maths, engineering and technol-

09:00-17:00 18:00-21:00 21:30-19:00 19:00-22:00 12:00-14:00 13:30-18:00 18:00-19:30

The museum will be filled with science activities, demonstrations and entertainment in partnership with Cardiff University’s School of Engineering, commemorating the 500th anniversary of artist, scientist, engineer and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci’s death.

An opportunity to see Cardiff University’s Medicine Discovery Institute’s work through fun activities during their free drop-in session. You can build your own chemical structures using blocks and use the GI tract marble run to see how they target drugs to specific areas of the body.

Lush Science - Lush, Queen Street

AstroCymru - Astronaut Training - Capitol Centre

Lush are holding a full day of science events, focusing on the history of bath bombs, the science of smell and benefits of essential oils, and the affects plastic packaging has on our planet. There’s also the opportunity to make your own Turtle Jelly Bomb for £4.95.

Ever wondered what it would feel like to be an astronaut? Well, in the Capitol Centre’s free drop-in session, your skills will be tested in the challenging tasks set by AstroCymru, designed to replicate the extremely tricky conditions those in space face.

Moon Struck! Pub Quiz - AJs Coffee House

Touch The Stars - Central Library Hub

A five round quiz set to test the best quizmasters on their spacebased knowledge. Rounds aren’t just aimed at science-lovers, with themes ranging from the history of space travel to mooninspired music.

Dr Matthew Allen will be encouraging attendees to experience astronomy without the use of their sight by feeling the night sky and meteorites. There will also be a Q and A at the end where Matthew will be available to answer your astronomy questions.

Will A Robot Take My Job? - The Arcade Vaults

Stardust Hunters - Bute Park Education Centre

As automation becomes more apparent in our everyday lives, how long do we have before we are completely technologically dependent? The speaker, Scott Morgan, currently develops teaching and learning around emerging technologies.

This free workshop will help you to determine what to look for when hunting for micrometeorites using everyday household objects. This drop-in session will be held in the Bute Park Education Centre found near the Secret Garden Cafe.

Discovering DNA & Food from The Oceans - Capitol Centre

A Plan to Save the World - LIVE PODCAST - Inside the Petri Dish - Little Man Coffee Company (£6)

DNA sequences, origami, bracelet making and chromosome countdown are just some of the activities to be expected at this event focused on two themes: DNA and sustainable seafood diets.

Tay, Vicki and Alice are putting together a plan to save the world and you can join them on their live podcast as they invite experts within conservation, sustainable fuels and plastic pollution to the discussion.

Sull Space - Capitol Centre

Science Board Games - Firestorm Games

Two live performances, Elementary and Echo Looped & Silence, which explore the science of sound and vision is set to take place at the Capitol Centre. The centre will be transformed - dark surrounded by projected images, flashing lights and loud sounds to enhance your senses.

There’s a whole host of board games that link with STEM, and this event invites you to try them out. Local scientists and engineers will also be circulating the event, ready to explain the science and mechanics involved. The games will also be available to purchase.

Our Plastic Pollution Problem: Solutions from our Natural World - Big Moose Coffee

Stories Of Science - Little Man Coffee

Cardiff University’s Environmental Officer, Nia Jones, hosts this interactive event on how to reduce plastic consumption, where attendees are invited to search for microplastics on an artificial beach.

Life On Mars - AJ’s Coffee House Science presenter Neil Monteiro hosts a pub quiz, board game and sci-fi mash up, testing the best sci-fi brains to complete several physical and mental challenges in teams. You can come prepared with a team between 4 and 8 people or be assigned a team on the night.

Cardiff University physicist and storyteller Christine Watkins present an evening of science stories to fuel our imagination and inspire our curiosity. This is a free event at Little Man Coffee.

16:30-18:30

15:00-16:00

Medicine Discovery Institute - Capitol Centre

11:00-15:00

19:00-21:30

Museum After Dark - National Museum Cardiff

14:00-15:30

CAMPUS LIFE

Find out about what the researchers supported by Tenvous are working on by watching their VR lab tour at the Tenvous Charity shop. Rochelle Ahmed will be talking about her research on the protein Bcl3’s involvement in breast cancer metastasis, improving future treatment.

12:00-15:00

To contact our campus life desk, drop us an email at campuslife@gairrhydd.com

Tenvous Cancer Care: Science & Shopping - Capitol Centre

FEB 28TH MAR 1ST MAR 1ST MAR 2ND MAR 2ND MAR 2ND MAR 3RD MAR 3RD

Biomedical Science & Pathology - Capitol Centre The biomedical science and pathology group in the NHS have set up a pop-up shop in the Capitol Centre, where they will host several free activities throughout the day including a ‘magnetic’ cereal demonstration, a pH test on different waters, giant microbes and more.

10:00-12:00

Ashley Boyle Cerian Jones

binoculars. Techniquest will also be participating, hosting several after hours events at the reduced rate of £3.30 throughout the festival. Science buskers will also be found along the streets of cardiff over the course of the four days, demonstrating and chatting about science research.

13:30-16:30

Your campus life desk

ogy, and how these topics affect our lives everyday. Alongside the scheduled events, there are ongoing activities running throughout all four days. From 10am and 2pm, Wildlife Walks in Cardiff Bay will be setting off around the wetlands, informing attendees of the conservation work and research that is gathered from the area with help from some

09:00-12:00

MAR 3RD MAR 3RD MAR 2ND MAR 2ND MAR 2ND MAR 1ST MAR 1ST FEB 28TH FEB 28TH

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/campuslife

Cardiff Science Festival

10:00-18:00

BYWYD CAMPWS

For more information, or to book your place in one of the events, please visit the Cardiff Science Festival’s website.

www.CardiffScienceFestival.co.uk

BYWYD CAMPWS

Finally - Cardiff Student Media Awards

Dydd Gŵyl All your hard work is about to pay off, here’s how to enter! Dewi Hapus!

by Cerian Jones

he Cardiff Student Media Awards submission portals have been released, which means that the CSM Awards are nearly here! The awards consider all 4 sections of student media; CUTV, Xpress, Quench and GR and are broken down into smaller categories. CUTV breaks down its awards into: best editor, best project, best on screen personality, best section, outstanding contribution, executive board member of the year, and best production team. Quench have three awards: best critic, best writer, and best designer. Xpress Radio awards for best presenter, best producer, best speech/entertainment, best specialist and outstanding contribution. Gair Rhydd offer four dif-

ferent awards; best writer, best feature, best digital content, and scoop of the year! These categories require submissions of exceptional work that engages audiences and makes a mark in the world of student media. The CSM awards are a chance for students who have put in so much hard work for Cardiff University’s influential student media output. Editors, producers, and contributors alike, all have an opportunity to be rewarded for their volunteered time. Because the different groups all work alongside each other in the same office, we all know each other and we all appreciate the effort we see others putting in to something they care about, whether it’s their morning radio show, filming pro-

Image Source: Stan Zurek via Wikimedia Commons

motional videos for causes and events, or writing a scoop on something you care about. There’s a time and place where everyone from the teams can finally come together for a wonderful night to reward them for their hard work. You can submit you work on the respective group’s facebook page, you just fill out a form and you’re good to go. Gair Rhydd lets you submit three independent articles, for Xpress you have to submit a short demo and a write-up of your work as a radio presenter/producer. Quench request pages you’ve designed or articles you wrote based on what awards you’re nominating yourself for. CUTV’s requirements are yet to be announced. And all work is judged by industry special-

ists. The deadline for each team varies but they’re all around the start of March. So get busy writing, recording, and editing your fantastic submissions, and I’ll see you at the Awards Ball on May 11. Tickets aren’t on sale yet, so keep your eyes peeled and good luck.

Image Source: Kevinquickle via Flickr

by Angharad May

s a Cardiff University student, living in the capital city, I am sure you know who the patron saint of Wales is…Dewi Sant, of course! Or, Saint David in English. Very little is concretely known about Saint David, but there is evidence to suggest that he came from an aristocratic family in West Wales, and his mother was also a saint, Saint Non. Saint David was highly involved in the church; in the 6th century, he was at the heart of the church in West Wales and spread Christianity among pagan Celtic tribes. Furthermore, he founded a monastery in West Wales and became Archbishop of Wales. One of the most infamous stories that Welsh schoolchildren are told, is that of when Saint David was preaching to a vast crowd, and the ground beneath his feet rose up so that everyone could see him. Saint David’s Day has been celebrated on the 1st March throughout Wales since the eighteenth century. In primary schools, pupils dress-up in traditional Welsh costumes and often an Eisteddfod is held, involving Welsh singing, folk dancing and poetry recitals. Girls wear a white pinafore, a shawl of Welsh flannel and a tall black hat worn over a white frilled bonnet, whereas boys wear a white shirt, a Welsh flannel waistcoat, short black trousers and long white socks. As well as the above, Saint David’s legacy is his adage which encourages us to “do the little things, the small things you’ve seen me doing.” The UMCC (Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd) Saint David’s Day celebrations are certainly proving to be doing a lot more than just the little things. On the 26th February between 12pm and 3pm, a whole host of Saint David’s Day related celebrations will be taking place in Y Plas in the Cardiff University Student’s Union. Aelwyd y Waun Ddyfal Choir will be performing, as well as Cadi Gwen. You can get your face decorated by Glitr Gloyw and even try the moreish treats that are Welsh Cakes. The UMCC is the Welsh Student’s Union which represents Welsh language students in all aspects of their university life. William Rees is UMCC’s current President and he has stated that, “I’m very proud that we are able to celebrate Saint David’s day this year”. William reiterates that, “There will be a welcome to everyone to come along to the celebrations in Y Plas on the 26th February.” Jacob Morris, Welsh Language Campaign Officer, added that it is important to, “celebrate our Welsh culture and our language”, since Saint David’s Day is supposed to be a day to take pride in Welsh identity. It is vital to embrace students from every corner of the globe in these celebrations. We live in a multicultural world; what better way to showcase each other’s cultures and traditions than with inclusivity and convivial celebrations. Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus!

ARCHWILIO

Women in Politics

This week, we investigate the under-representation and expereinces of women across the political spectrum

ne year ago in the 2018 Students Union elections, Georgie Haynes, current Vice President Sports and Athletic Union President experienced what many other women in the political sphere experience. Georgie faced opposition for the role from two other male candidates who joined forces to explain why they would be better than the “female rowing president”. Campaigning against someone goes against election guidelines and the two men faced penalties as a result. However, the desire to point out Georgie as a “fe-

male” candidate, highlights a bigger problem, with women facing hostility in the political arena. Gair Rhydd reached out to Georgie Haynes, as well as Jo Stevens, MP and Jenny Rathbone, AM, who are all at different stages in their political careers to discuss their experiences as women in the field. In 1918, Constance Markievicz made history by becoming the country’s first woman to have the right to stand for election in the House of Commons. This week, Gair Rhydd investigates how over a century after this revolutionary landmark in Britain’s

Of the 650 MPs elected at the 2017 General Election, FEMALE MPs 208 females made up only MALE MPs 32% of the house in contrast to their 442 male counterparts.

To contact our features desk, drop us an email at features@gairrhydd.com

FEATURE

32%

Feature this week by Jess Warren & Mustakim Hasnath

Speaking with Georgie Haynes, we asked her what advice she would give to other women looking to get involved in politics at all levels?

*analysis obtained from Fawcett Society Report (September 10th 2018)

of the six metro mayors are female

democratic history, there still exists a significant underrepresentation of women across the political spectrum. Increased pressure for businesses to open up about gender pay gaps, has led to many questioning why the same level of scrutiny is not being applied to political parties. Whilst Section 106 of the Equality Act 2010 would require parties to publish such data, it is still in need of the appropriate implementation from the secretary of state. The current statistical observations of the Fawcett Society reveals the extent of this under-representation, especially for local Government.

of councils have maternity or adoption policies in place

Despite women representing 78% of all council workers, they make up less than 33% of council chief executives

Georgie said: “Don’t be afraid of what people think of you if you’re coming across as assertive or dominant. “I am conscious of the way that women can come across, but put your foot down if you think something is wrong.

“Challenge people if you don’t like what they’re saying. But also remember that you don’t always have to be shouting from the rooftop, sometimes things can be dealt with in a lower tone. “As cliche as it is, stand up for what you believe in.”

97%

43%

estimated years to reach reach gender equality

of councils are male dominated

female representation at the National Assembly for Wales

LGA responds to Fawcett Society’s report on female representation in government

by Mustakim Hasnath

ollowing a recently conducted investigation by the Fawcett Society into gender inequality, The Local Government Association (LGA) concluded that local government is ‘not fit for the future’, owing to a range of outdated practices and attitudes upholding barriers to equality. The Fawcett Society urged for action in the centenary year from Government, political parties and councils, to make local government work for women. In a statement, Cllr Marianne Overton, Vice Chair of the Local Government Association, said “The report rightly identifies that progress must be made at a faster pace to ensure a greater representation of women in our local authorities.” In response to the findings, the LGA initiated its ‘Be A Councillor’ campaign,

which works to encourage women and under-represented groups to stand for election and shape councils to best support our communities. However, the group also commented on such changes requiring all political parties and Independents to fully engage and support a wide range of aspiring councillors. Later in 2018, the LGA also tendered the development of a self-assessment equalities toolkit. Earlier in February, the House of Lords debated on the role of women in public life. The debates, prompted by the findings addressed matters such as talent-spotting, tackling lack of parental leave and pension contributions, supporting women councillors through a range of training and development, as well as establishing a cross-party and independent or-

ganisation to promote women’s representation in politics. During discussion, members of the LGA were able to inform the House of the implications of the lack of parental leave, as a result of the abolish-

This is really disappointing. We are literally crawling along. As we mark the centenary of women’s suffrage, women’s representation across local government is stuck in the past.

ment of The Local Government Pension Scheme in 2014. Members of the Fawcett Society deem it unnacceptable that in the 21st century, “new, powerful insti-

tutions to be created with no regard for gender equality or diversity, and which instead cement existing structures that have failed to meaningfully include women.” Whilst Government intervention is gradual, much of the criticism against this inequality is aimed at the structure of combined authorities and how, as the Fawcett Society propose, there should be two elected representatives to authorities, one of which must be a women - as well as the push for Mayors to create an interim structure to get more women around the table. Despite the general viewpoint from the Fawcett society it implies a system which is “outdatted”, the campaign for change leaves many with some sign of optimism as a step closer to gender equality.

ARCHWILIO

“The impact of social media on female politicians is horrific” by Jess Warren

We spoke to Jo Stevens, Welsh Labour Party politician in the UK House of Commons

What made you run to be an MP? I was being approached by lots of people who were saying ‘you should go for this’. Which is quite typical of women’s experience in politics. How did you experience parliament? As a Lawyer to an MP I had gone from one male-dominated profession to another male-dominated profession. But parliament is quite an oldfashioned, regressive. It certainly isn’t a modern working environment. Did you find it intimidating? I didn’t find the environment intimidating, I was more shocked at just how old-fashioned, and how male controlled it was – and the culture was so male when I got there. I’ll give you an example. Quite soon after I was elected, I was sat in a room on a committee, a parliamentary committee and the only woman in the room. And we were having a discussion and trying to make a decision about something. This was a cross party committee and I made a suggestion and the two men who were there at the time ignored what I said. And then one of them said to the other ‘that’s a really good idea’, so they completely appropriated my suggestion and said to the other man ‘oh that’s a really good idea, yeah we should do that’. And I’d not had an experience like that for two decades. There are men there, who will appropriate your work, they will stand up and

pronounce, as though they have done other people’s work, and they will take credit for it, and they have no embarrassment at all about doing that sort of thing. And they particularly do it against women. Do you think that as a woman in politics you have to act a certain way to get yourself heard? You do find that if you want to be heard above the male-dominated behaviour, you have to behave like a bloke as well. I have seen a change over the four years I’ve been in parliament, because there are now more women than there have ever been. There’s 209 of us. And you do see a change – women are much more careful about looking after each other, and we are quite a tight group. And that’s within the Labour party, but also cross-party as well. Have you ever felt pressured to alter your appearance to make change happen. I’ve always approached what I did before as a lawyer and now as an MP with a professional attitude. I’m not particularly interested in clothes and I’m not particularly interested in makeup, and all sorts of things that you do get a lot of pressure about this. If you’re doing television, and if you’re a candidate you’re told to wear bright colours so that you stand out.

Do you think that part of your responsibility in politics is to bring in such policy changes that are more feminist in idea, and things that could improve people’s lives in that way? I think there is a responsibility on all politicians, whether male or female to ensure that you make changes that equalise opportunity for all. Whether you’re talking about the fact that women are always hardest hit by budget changes, taxations changes, changes to the social security system. There is inbuilt inequality which I think the current government and the coalition government before it have exacerbated through policy. So I think there is a responsibility on us all to make sure that whatever we do, it does not increase the gap that is already far, far too wide. And what I have always done, in any job over the years is I’ve particularly looked for women who, women of potential. Because when I finish something, what I always want to be able to do is make it easier and better for the women that come behind me to be able to have those opportunities. How does social media impact female politicians? The only thing I would say is that the impact of social media, particularly on female politicians is horrific. So, there’s plenty of research about this, and some work going on in parliament at the mo-

ment. Social media has given some people a platform to not just abuse and to hound and threaten female MPs in a way that doesn’t happen to men. Some of my colleagues – one of my colleagues has been murdered, another one has had a man been convicted of conspiring to murder her, many have had death threats and rape threats. Sexual violence, and threat of sexual violence is directed at women, and there are things that we all put up with every day that our male counterparts don’t. And it’s a horrible, waring, frightening burden a lot of the time. My last question then, is whether you think there is a glass ceiling in politics? Yes, I still think it’s there. It’s cultural. Some of it is so ingrained that I worry it will never change during my lifetime. Until parliament – obviously my experience is in parliament and I cannot talk about what it’s like in councils and devolved administrations – but in Parliament, until we have that critical mass of women, until we get to the point where half of parliament are female, the speed of change will not start going at a sufficiently faster rate. We are making incremental progress but it’s painfully slow. So for example, this week we finally got proxy voting, so it’s taking a woman who was about to give birth, being brought into the chamber in a wheel-

chair b e c a u s e she’s got chestational diabetes, and has delayed her caesarean section so that she could vote in the Brexit vote. It has taken that, and people seeing that on television and being so horrified, for us to finally be able to get proxy voting. And even then there was still arguments about it, I mean it’s medieval isn’t it really. What would you like to see change? The biggest change would be that parliament would actually reflect what society looks like. The whole idea about parliament being elected representatives, and being there to represent your constituents, how can we say that parliament does that when women make up half of the population, and we make up less than a third of parliament. And you can say that about black and minority ethnic communities, about people with disabilities. Until parliament looks like UK society, I don’t think we will see the big change that we need.

“We need a kinder politics”

We spoke to Jenny Rathbone, Welsh Labour Assembly Member of the National Assembly for Wales by Jess Warren How did you manage the issue of childcare during your career? I returned to work after my first child but decided that I needed to leave and there was a freelance opportunity to go and direct some films about the international debt crisis, and so I became freelance and then I went back into the BBC. After I had my second child, I decided I couldn’t possibly be full time. I went onto four fifths time, and because of the way in which productions work, I would clock up a lot of time in lieu, which I would then have quite significant conflicts with a particular female editor that didn’t have children and just wasn’t interested in my employment rights. It led to lots of conflict and in the end, it led to me having to leave the BBC. I couldn’t take anymore - it was a form of bullying. How do you hold your voice in meetings and important decisionmaking panels, to ensure you’re heard? It’s less of a problem now that I am the assembly member. In the labour group there was a disproportionate amount of men in the past, but under Mark Drakeford there are equal women and men, and that’s great. So,

I don’t find it so much in my present role, certainly because of the position I hold. Has it ever been a problem? Oh, absolutely. But, after I left television, and I became a councillor and chaired lots of complaints panels in the health service, I was older, I had more authority, and that was less likely to happen. After that, I managed the Sure Start programme which was all about working with parents with very small children, and most of the staff I employed were women, not because I was opposed to men, but it’s mainly a career that more women are interested in. Do you think that the experience you have had, has changed with age in your career? Did you have more issues as a younger woman in TV and politics? Definitely, both my experience and my age. Now that I am no longer of reproductive age, I think that the relationship changes, and some of that is biological due to the way humans are genetically wired. I don’t actually remember having had comments about my appearance for example, on social media. Which I know some of my colleagues do get. I think it is probably down to my age that they don’t bother. Do you think there is a duty within

politics for women to support each other? Or, are we past that point?

sometimes men are bullied as well.

Certainly women who are being attacked for being women, yes we need to support them on that. And certainly, women in the house of commons, which is a much more male dominated institution, have had to assert the right of a colleague who has just had a baby to be able to vote by proxy. And that’s partly because the speaker has heard what’s been said, but it’s really been ridiculous that people in that situation and other sorts of situations, where they need to have an operation or something like that, that they can’t simply opt for one of their colleagues to vote on their behalf. Unreal to think that they bring people in ambulances to vote. Most of the time, political parties do sort these things out behind the scenes, and there are pairing systems that go on in between the parties, but when it becomes really critical, that’s when these systems work.

What does a kinder politics mean to you?

Do you think there is anything women could do differently to support each other better?

Would you have any advice for women wanting to get into politics that are afraid to, or just don’t know if they’re going to be good enough?

There are always things we can do to be sisterly, but I think we need to re-frame it slightly, and say what we need is a kinder politics, because

It means, not having bullying in the workplace, respecting difference of view. I may disagree with somebody but I shouldn’t be badmouthing them because of their difference of view. I think occasionally, people say things that are outside of the boundaries of decency, such as one or two UKIP people. But in the main, there is plenty of respect for individuals from the Tory group in the national assembly. Most of them, I respect their views. But I don’t think that is to do with being male or female. They have coherent views and many of them care passionately about changing things in the way they think would improve the lives of others.

Well if you’re a student starting out in your career, don’t try to go into

politics before you’ve d o n e other things. I think you need experience of other bits of the world to inform your politics at a deeper level. I was involved with politics as a student, it was all very interesting. But having other experiences just enables you to be a better politician. You can make some impact as a young politician. Going from a student to a politician, well I don’t think they make the best politicians. That would be my number one advice. Number two, I think if you’re in the public eye, you’re going to get scrutinised in a way that other people aren’t, much like if you were a TV presenter, or on the stage. You become other people’s property. It can be quite difficult to maintain your life, and some people don’t cope with it.

taf od

Barn y Bobol

Gyda chynlluniau Cyngor Dinas Caerdydd i roi enwau Cymraeg ar strydoedd newydd, Taf-od sy’n holi rhai o fyfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd am eu barn.

Shôn Alun Thomas

Myfyriwr ail flwyddyn Meddygaeth Cymraeg yw fy mamiaith, mae ‘Ch’ a ‘Ll’ yn hawdd i mi. Er byddwn i’n caru clywed pawb yn enangu ‘Ffordd Llanbradach’ yn berffaith, rhaid cofio mai mudwyr yw canran fawr o boblogaeth ein prifddinas, yn cynnwys nifer o fyfyrwyr o dramor. Mae’n bendant bod angen rhyw strategaeth i hybu’r iaith yma yng Nghaerdydd ond dwi’n poeni os mai’r unig syniad sydd gan Cyngor y Ddinas yw dull sy’n golygu na fyddai’n deall ble mae fy ffrindiau o dros y ffin yn byw.

Lowri Evans

Myfyrwraig ail flwyddyn Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth Mae enwi strydoedd newydd Caerdydd yn Gymraeg yn syniad da gan ei fod yn cyfoethogi’r defnydd o’r iaith. Does dim amheuaeth ei bod yn hen bryd gweld pethau o’r fath yn cael eu cyflwyno. Bydd yn sicrhau bod mwy o Gymraeg yn cael ei chlywed a’i gweld ar draws y ddinas. Yn sicr bydd hefyd yn arwain at fwy o statws i’r Gymraeg mewn oes lle mae’r iaith dan y lach a lle mae gorfodaeth inni fel Cymry gyfiawnhau pwysigrwydd ei defnyddio.

Rhodri Davies

Myfyriwr blwyddyn gyntaf Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth Chwarae teg i Gyngor Caerdydd am ystyried cam i roi statws i’r Gymraeg unwaith eto. Gydag enw sawl lle yn cael ei gyfieithu i’r Saesneg, braf gweld tro pedol ar agweddau tuag at yr iaith. Wrth wneud hyn, fodd bynnag, rhaid edrych yn ôl ar enwau gwreiddiol y strydoedd cyn eu hailgyfieithu. Mae hanes ynghlwm â’r strydoedd ac mae’u henwau yn allwedd i’r hanesion hynny. Rhaid bod yn ofalus rhag anghofio treftadaeth ein Prif Ddinas.

Eich unig gyhoeddiad myfyrwyr wythnosol trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. Sefydlwyd: 2003 I gysylltu â ni, e-bostiwch tafod@gairrhydd.com Am fwy o gynnwys, ewch i gairrhydd.com/tafod

NEWYDDION

Dyfodol Ysgol y Gymraeg yn y fantol

gan Tomos Evans

ae Prifysgol Caerdydd wedi cyhoeddi cynlluniau a fyddai’n gweld Ysgol y Gymraeg yn uno gyda’r ysgolion Ieithoedd Modern a Saesneg, Cyfathrebu ac Athroniaeth. Mae cynlluniau’r brifysgol, sydd wedi’u cymeradwyo gan gyngor Prifysgol Caerdydd, yn cynnig creu Adran y Gymraeg o fewn yr ysgol Llenyddiaeth, Ieithoedd ac Ymarfer Creadigol newydd. Mae’r newidiadau arfaethedig yn rhan o gynllun ‘Trawsffurfio Caerdydd’ y brifysgol, gyda’r bwriad o wella sefyllfa ariannol y sefydliad addysgol wedi iddi ddod i’r amlwg fod ganddi ddiffyg ariannol o £21 miliwn. Dywedodd llefarydd ar ran Prifysgol Caerdydd: “Mae rhaglen Prifysgol Caerdydd, Trawsffurfio Caerdydd, yn cynnwys nifer o syniadau ar gyfer newid. Un o’r rhain yw ystyried a ddylid cyfuno’r Ysgol Saesneg, Cyfathrebu ac Athroniaeth, yr Ysgol Ieithoedd Modern ac Ysgol y Gymraeg i greu Ysgol Llenyddiaeth, Ieithoedd ac Ymarfer Creadigol newydd.” Ychwanega’r llefarydd: “Ein bwriad, os bydd y syniad hwn yn cael ei fabwysiadu, yw gwarchod hunaniaeth benodol Ysgol y Gymraeg a’i galluogi i elwa ar fod yn rhan o grŵp ehangach o ddisgyblaethau sy’n rhannu nifer sylweddol o fuddiannau. Gobeithiwn wella ymchwil ac addysgu drwy gynnig mwy o gyfleoedd ar gyfer cydweithio rhyngddisgyblaethol. At hynny, os bydd y syniad hwn yn cael ei ddatblygu ymhellach, byddwn yn cadw hunaniaeth Adran y Gymraeg yn yr Ysgol Llenyddiaeth, Ieithoedd ac Ymarfer Creadigol. Bydd hyn yn gwarchod ei harwahanrwydd ac yn ei gwneud hyd yn oed yn fwy amlwg fel rhan o arbenigedd Caerdydd ym meysydd ieithoedd Ewropeaidd a byd-eang a diwylliannau llenyddol.”

Os bydd y syniad hwn yn cael ei ddatblygu ymhellach, byddwn yn cadw hunaniaeth Adran y Gymraeg.

Fel rhan o’r cynlluniau, mae Prifysgol Caerdydd wedi dweud ei bod am ystyried pun a’i nhw yw’r “sefydliad priodol” i barhau i gynnig darpariaeth Cymraeg i Oedolion. Mae’r ddarpariaeth hon yn cynnig gwersi Cymraeg i aelodau’r gymuned ac yn fodd o bontio’r Brifysgol â’r gymuned ehangach. Dywedodd llefarydd ar ran Prifysgol Caerdydd: “O ran Cymraeg

Trawsffurfio Caerdydd?: Is-ganghellor Prifysgol Caerdydd, Colin Riordan, yn siarad mewn sesiwn cwestiwn ac ateb ar y cynlluniau a drefnwyd gan Undeb y Myfyrwyr. (Tarddiad: Tomos Evans). i Oedolion, byddwn yn...gweithio gyda phartneriaid i wneud yn siŵr bod cyrsiau yn parhau. Yn ddiweddar rydym wedi cyflwyno tendr i’r Ganolfan Dysgu Cymraeg Genedlaethol i barhau â’n rôl fel darparwr o fis Gorffennaf 2019 ymlaen.” Mewn digwyddiad a drefnwyd gan Undeb y Myfyrwyr er mwyn trafod y cynlluniau, dywedodd Colin Riordan, Is-ganghellor Prifysgol Caerdydd, y bydd “gostyngiad graddol o staff dros y bum mlynedd nesaf.” Mae’r brifysgol eisoes wedi cynnig i aelodau staff i ymgeisio am becynnau ymddeoliad cynnar, gyda’r ffenestr ymgeisio yn cau ddiwedd Mai. Ychwanegodd yr is-ganghellor, “Rydym am wneud hyn yn raddol, rydym am ei wneud ar sail gwirfodd.” Hefyd yn bresennol yn y digwyddiad yn Neuadd Fawr yr Undeb oedd yr Athro Damian Walford-Davies, Rhag Is-ganghellor ar gyfer Coleg y Celfyddydau, Dynoliaethau a Gwyddoniaeth Gymdeithasol. Mewn ymateb i gwestiwn yn benodol ar Ysgol y Gymraeg, dywedodd ei fod yn “llwyr ymroddedig i Ysgol y Gymraeg a’i darpariaeth.” Ychwanegodd, “Syniad ydyw. Byddwn yn ymgynghori â staff a myfyrwyr yn ystyrlon ac yn gadarn.” Ei obaith yw y bydd y Gymraeg yn “dod i mewn i’r brif ffrwd. Yn fwy gweledol, nid llai.” Ond beth yw barn rhai o fyfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd ar yr argymhellion? Yn ôl Tirion Davies, myfyrwraig Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth yn y

flwyddyn gyntaf, “Gan fod Prifysgol Caerdydd yn brifysgol uchel ei safon yn y Deyrnas Unedig ac yn y byd, dylai Ysgol y Gymraeg dderbyn y parch i weithredu’n annibynnol o’r ysgolion eraill gan mai yng Nghymru mae’r adran yn gweithredu – nid o fewn gwlad tramor.” Dywedodd Mali Llyfni, myfyrwraig Cymraeg yn y flwyddyn gyntaf, “Dewisais ddod i astudio Cymraeg yma yng Nghaerdydd oherwydd yr ymdeimlad braf oedd o fewn yr ysgol, yr ymdeimlad o berthyn i un ysgol academaidd a honno o fewn un o’r prifysgolion mwyaf ym Mhrydain ac ym mhrifddinas Cymru. Yn bendant mi fydd y cynlluniau hyn yn ergyd i’r Gymraeg, yn ogystal â tharged y llywodraeth o gyrraedd 1 miliwn o siaradwyr.”

Yn bendant mi fydd y cynlluniau hyn yn ergyd i’r Gymraeg, yn ogystal a tharged y llywodraeth o gyrraedd 1 miliwn o siaradwyr.

Yn ôl Jacob Morris, Swyddog y Gymraeg yn Undeb Myfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd a myfyriwr Cymraeg a Gwleidyddiaeth yn yr ail flwyddyn, “Y gofid yw y bydd y gymuned glos sydd o fewn Ysgol y Gymraeg yn diflannu

drwy uno gydag ysgolion eraill. Mae angen lle i’r Gymraeg anadlu’n naturiol ac mae Ysgol y Gymraeg yn un o’r llefydd prin lle gellir honni fod hynny’n wir yn y brifysgol.” Ar hyn o bryd, mae Prifysgol Caerdydd yn mynd ati i ymgynghori â holl rhanddeiliaid y brifysgol. Dywedodd llefarydd ar ran Prifysgol Caerdydd: “Mae’n bwysig pwysleisio nad ydym wedi gwneud unrhyw benderfyniadau eto, a byddwn yn ymgynghori’n ofalus â staff, myfyrwyr a rhanddeiliaid eraill wrth i ni fynd ymlaen.” Ychwanegodd y llefarydd: “Mae ein hymrwymiad i gynyddu nifer y myfyrwyr sy’n astudio yn Gymraeg ac i gyflawni’r hyn a amlinellir yn Y Ffordd Ymlaen 2018-2023 yr un mor gryf, er mwyn sicrhau ein bod yn gwneud cyfraniad cadarnhaol tuag at ddatblygiad y Gymraeg ac yn cyflawni ein rhwymedigaethau cyfreithiol a moesol. Yn ddiweddar iawn mae’r Brifysgol, am y tro cyntaf, wedi penodi Deon y Gymraeg, Huw Williams, sy’n gweithio gyda’r Rhag Is-ganghellor, yr Athro Damian Walford-Davies i ddatblygu strategaeth arloesol a blaenllaw ar gyfer y Gymraeg a fydd yn trawsnewid profiad myfyrwyr – a staff – ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd.” Mae Swyddogion Sabothol Undeb Myfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd wedi anfon llythyr agored i Is-ganghellor y Brifysgol yn rhestri eu pryderon am y cynlluniau. Gellir gweld copi o’r llythyr ar wefan yr Undeb.

TAF-OD

Pryd o Daf-od

Maia Rogers Maia Rogers, myfyrwraig Cymraeg yn ei hail blwyddyn, sy’n esbonio pam bo’r termau ‘dysgwr’ a ‘siaradwr ail iaith’ yn broblematig.

dydd, felly ‘dw i’n parhau i ddysgu. A fyddaf yn cael fy adnabod fel dysgwr drwy gydol fy mywyd, neu a fyddaf yn cael fy ystyried fel siaradwr rhugl? Efallai, dylai’r term ‘dysgwr’ fod yn berthnasol i siaradwyr iaith gyntaf hefyd, ‘dw i’n siŵr eu bod yn parhau i ddysgu geiriau newydd. Mewn ffordd, mae’r termau ‘dysgwr’ a ‘siaradwr ail iaith’ ar yr un lefel achos er mwyn galw iaith fel ail iaith, mae rhaid i chi fod wedi dysgu’r iaith, felly maen nhw’n golygu’r un peth. Wrth gwrs, mae ‘na lawer o gyno-

diadau gwahanol gyda’r termau ond weithiau pan fy mod i’n siarad gyda phobl iaith gyntaf, rwyf yn teimlo fel y dylwn i ddweud fy mod i’n siarad ail iaith. Mae’n rhoi cysur i mi. Ar y llaw arall, rydw i’n meddwl fy mod yn defnyddio’r termau i guddio unrhyw gamgymeriadau sydd yn bosibl wrth imi siarad. Mae’r termau yn rhoi platfform inni ddechrau symud ymlaen fel siaradwyr i ddangos ein gallu. Wrth edrych ar fy mhrofiad yn y gwaith pan mae rhywun yn dweud

imi ei bod nhw’n ddysgwr ‘dw i’n siarad gyda nhw yn yr un ffordd y byddwn i’n siarad gyda phobl iaith gyntaf. Dydw i ddim yn gweld pam y dylwn i fod yn ofalus wrth siarad gyda nhw. Maen nhw’n galw eu hunain yn ‘ddysgwyr’ ond maen nhw’n siarad yr un iaith, felly, rydym yn dysgu o’n gilydd. Tybed, os bod ieithoedd arall yn defnyddio labeli tebyg? Y ffordd ymlaen yw sicrhau fod pawb yn dysgu’r Gymraeg ar yr un lefel. Nid yw labeli fel “dysgwr” yn helpu unrhyw un.

Dathliadau di-ri ar ddiwrnod Dydd Gŵyl Dewi

gan Llion Carbis

A yw’r termau’n broblematig? Wel, fel ‘dysgwr’ neu ‘siaradwr ail iaith’, gallan nhw gael eu hystyried yn israddol! Oes rhaid i ni deimlo fel ein bod ar lefel wanhaol i bobl iaith gyntaf sydd wedi cael y cyfle i siarad Cymraeg trwy gydol eu bywydau? Mae’n gallu bod yn anodd dweud wrth bobl dy fod yn siarad Cymraeg fel ail iaith. Mae’n rhoi’r syniad i bobl nad ydynt yn ddigon galluog i siarad y Gymraeg yn rhugl. Sut ydw i’n gwybod os fy mod i’n “siaradwr ail iaith”, dw i’n dysgu geiriau newydd bob

dydd Gwener, Mawrth 1 bydd dathliadau ledled y wlad i gofio am nawddsant Cymru, Dewi Sant. Yma, yng Nghaerdydd, mae Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd (UMCC) wedi paratoi dathliadau di-ri er mwyn dynodi’r achlysur. Ddydd Mawrth, 26 Chwefror, rhwng 12yh a 3yh, bydd dathliadau Dydd Gŵyl Dewi yn cael eu cynnal yn y Plas, Undeb Myfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd.

Dywed Wiliam Rees, Llywydd UMCC: “Rwy’n falch iawn ein bod yn gallu dathlu Dydd Gŵyl Dewi eleni yma ym Mhrifysgol y Brifddinas. Bydd croeso i unrhyw un ymuno yn y dathliadau yn y Plas ar y 26ain o Chwefror a bydd digon o fwrlwm i’w gael. Mae’n bwysig ein bod ninnau hefyd fel myfyrwyr Cymraeg yn cyd-ddathlu nawddsant Cymru.” Dywed Jacob Morris, Swyddog y Gymraeg: “Mae Dydd Gŵyl Dewi yn

ddiwrnod hollbwysig i ni’r Cymry, ac yn gyfle i ddathlu ein diwylliant Cymreig a’r iaith Gymraeg. Braf felly fod UMCC yn cynnal dathliadau yn yr Undeb eleni, a fydd y digwyddiad yn dangos i fyfyrwyr o bedwar ban y byd fod diwylliant Cymreig yn rhywbeth sy’n fyw ac yn iach.” Felly, os bod awydd gennych i ymbleseru yn niwylliant Cymreig, ac i ymuno yn nathliadau’r traddodiad; ewch i lawenhau gydag aelodau ac arweinwyr UMCC ar Chwefror 26.

Dathliadau di-ri: Poster i hysbysebu dathliadau Dydd Gŵyl Dewi UMCC. (Tarddiad: Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd).

Taf-od-iaith Gair Cymraeg yr wythnos Welsh word of the week

gadael / to leave

(gah-dail)

Mae rhai Aelodau Seneddol wedi gadael eu pleidiau yr wythnos hon. Some Members of Parliament have left their parties this week.

Gadael: Anna Soubry, un o’r Aelodau Seneddol sydd wedi gadael eu pleidiau yr wythnos hon. (Tarddiad: Swyddfa Dramor a’r Gymanwlad, drwy Flickr).

Eich adran taf-od Llion Carbis Tomos Evans tafod@gairrhydd.com

TAF OD

Am fwy o gynnwys, ewch i gairrhydd.com/tafod

CHWARAEON

Dyfodol disglair i bêl-droed merched yng Nghymru

gan Mared Jones

m mis Mehefin 2018, llwyddodd tîm pêl-droed merched Cymru i gyrraedd brig Grŵp A gemau rhagbrofol Cwpan y Byd wrth ennill yn erbyn Bosnia-Herzegovina. Roedd pawb yn llawn gobaith o weld y tîm yn cyrraedd Cwpan y Byd am y tro cyntaf a dim ond dwy gêm ar ôl i’w hennill. Ar Fehefin yr 17eg, ennill yn erbyn Rwsia a gyda dim ond un gêm ar ôl roedd llwyddiant o fewn gafael. O flaen cynulleidfa o 5,000 yn Rodney Parade, yng Nghasnewydd, daeth y gobaith i ben pan gollodd y tîm o 3-0 yn erbyn yr hen elyn Lloegr. Dyna weld diwedd yr ymgyrch a diwedd y gobaith ym marn llawer. Ond a yw hynny’n wir? A ddylen ni anobeithio? Fel un o chwaraewyr tîm merched Aberystwyth, sy’n cystadlu eleni i fynd yn ôl i gynghrair Cymru, rwyf innau yn bositif iawn am ddyfodol y gêm ac wedi gweld diddordeb newydd yn y blynyddoedd diwethaf ymysg y chwaraewyr a’r cefnogwyr. Erbyn hyn mae gennym ni ferched gynghrair genedlaethol gyda 12 tîm yn cystadlu am y tlws o bob rhan o’r wlad, o’r Rhyl i Abertawe gyda thîm Prifysgol Metropolitaidd Caerdydd ar hyn o bryd ar frig y gynghrair honno. Mae gennym hefyd gynghreiriau llai yn y De a’r Gogledd sy’n cystadlu er mwyn cyrraedd y gynghrair genedlaethol. Timoedd Aberystwyth, Caldicot a’r Barry sydd ar frig y gynghrair yn y De a thimoedd megis Llanfair, Bangor ac Airbus yn cystadlu yn y Gogledd. Ceir timoedd ieuenctid hefyd yn y cynghreiriau yma ac yn wir, ceir llu o gynghreiriau is sy’n cynnwys timoedd megis Caerffili, Cwmbrân a

Yn gryfach gyda’n gilydd: Logo tim pêl-droed Cymru’n cael ei arddangos yn Eisteddfod 2018. (Tarddiad: Llion Carbis). Phenrhyn-coch. Mae’r ysgolion hefyd, chwarae teg, yn ceisio annog y merched a chystadlaethau cenedlaethol yn cael eu trefnu gan y gymdeithas bêl-droed ar gyfer y merched hefyd. A ddylen ni anobeithio felly? Rhaid cofio bod timoedd iau Cymru hefyd wedi gweld llwyddiant yn ddiweddar. Cyrhaeddodd tîm dan 19 Cymru rowndiau elitaidd terfynol UEFA 2017/18.

Yn wir, un o heriau’r gamp o ran y merched yw prinder cyllid. Ar lefel genedlaethol rhaid rhoi mwy o arian i bêldroed merched yng Nghymru gan fod gormod o wahaniaeth rhwng y gwledydd. Mae’r gwahaniaeth rhwng timoedd merched Cymru a Lloegr yn debyg iawn i Dafydd a Goliath gan fod Cymru flynyddoedd i ffwrdd o Loegr o ran cyllid. Mae’r un broblem yn bodoli hefyd ar le-

fel lleol, gyda thimoedd merched fel Aberystwyth ac Abertawe yn derbyn llawer llai o gyllid na thimoedd y bechgyn. Er mwyn gweld gwir chwyldro yna mae’n rhaid cael chwarae teg. Her arall, wrth gwrs, yw prinder cefnogwyr a phrinder diddordeb cyffredinol yng ngêm y merched. O gymharu gyda’r bechgyn mae’r gwahaniaeth yn syfrdanol.

Mae’r gymdeithas bêl-droed yn gweithio yn ddiwyd i geisio codi proffil gêm y menywod a’r slogan ‘Gorau Chwarae, Cyd Chwarae’ yn slogan ar gyfer pob un o’r timoedd. Er mwyn newid y gêm a sicrhau chwarae teg mae angen mwy o gyllid, mwy o adnoddau a mwy o sylw i gêm y merched. Wrth wneud hynny, fe fydd pêl-droed merched yng Nghymru yn ffynnu.

Yn Trafod yr wythnos hon... Deio Jones 1. Pwy wyt ti a beth wyt ti’n astudio? Deio Jones, Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth. 2. Pam dewis astudio yng Nghaerdydd? Mae Caerdydd yn ddigon pell oddi wrth adra’ i fod yn annibynnol, ond ddim rhy bell i beidio allu mynd adra’ mewn argyfwng.

Eich adran taf-od Llion Carbis Tomos Evans tafod@gairrhydd.com

3. Beth yw dy gàs atgof? Gorfod gwneud gig i dim ond tri o bobl mewn band o’r enw Madarch, ac roedd dau ohonyn nhw’n deulu i mi. 4. Person bore neu berson nos? Nos, ‘dw i’n un gwael am godi.

6. Pe bai gennyt TARDIS, i ba gyfnod y byddet yn mynd? Cyfnod y Peaky Blinders. 7. Starter neu poten? Dim syniad beth yw poten, felly starter ‘swn i’n feddwl. Pwdin!

5. Beth yw dy hoff gân ar y funud?

8. Pa deitl byddet ti’n ei roi i ffilm o dy fywyd?

Llygad Ebrill – Blodau Papur.

‘Di Benllech ddim yn Nefoedd. 9. Cathod neu gŵn? Cŵn!

10. Beth yw dy hoff air yn y Gymraeg, a pham? Tâw, syml ond effeithiol. 11. Pa syniad fyddet ti’n pitcho ar Dragon’s Den? App sy’n rhoi tecell ‘mlaen cyn cyrraedd adref… a rhedeg bath. 12. Pwy yw dy ysbrydoliaeth? Billy Joel neu Huw Chiswell. 13. Pe fyddet yn Brif Weinidog am y dydd, beth fyddet yn ei newid? Mwy o ganolfannau i bobl di-gartref.

14. Disgrifia dy hun mewn tri gair. Chwilfrydig, cerddorol a cynhyrfawr. 15. Pwy fydd yn ‘Trafod gyda’r Taf-od’ y tro nesaf? Gwern ab Arwel.

Deaf Havana

Sleaford Mods

Suede

March/Mawrth

April/Ebrill

May/Mai

AJ Tracey

Sleaford Mods

08/03/19, £20 ADV

05/04/19, £19.50 ADV

Hollywood Undead

Stiff Little Fingers

The Good, the Bad & the Queen

June/Mehefin

09/03/19, £21 ADV

Deaf Havana

15/03/19, £18.50 ADV

Bedlam Presents: CruCast

29/03/19, from £17.50 ADV

13/04/19, £30 ADV

DMA’S

14/04/19, £18.50 ADV

Stefflon Don

18/04/19, £16 ADV

Suede

26/04/19, £37.50 ADV

04/05/19, £18 ADV

The Alarm

29/06/19, £27.50 ADV

SYLWADAU

To contact our comment desk, drop us an email at comment@gairrhydd.com

COMMENT

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/comment

Your comment desk Alys Hewitt Hannah Newberry Emma Videan Columnist Karis Pearson

Facebook is out of control - and MPs want to reign it in I by Sharon Gomez

t’s hard to believe that a website, which began as a “hot or not” list for Harvard students has now become one of the most influential and controversial social media platforms of the day. In 2003, Facemash allowed visitors to compare two student pictures side by side and decide who was more attractive. In 2018, Facebook connects more than 2.2 billion people, a global nation that reshaped political campaigns, the advertising business, and daily life as we know it. But this success is not without its scandal. In that same year, Facebook saw the Cambridge Analytica fiasco, political manipulation, proliferation of fake news, and heavy data breaches. Mark Zuckerberg, its founder, continues to say he’s sorry and insists that the company can do better. However, data transfer for value is Facebook’s business model and security and privacy directly contradict that model. Facebook had more than a 90% share of growth in the

It is not in the public interest for Facebook to selfregulate digital advertising space in 2017 because they have a 360-view of user activity. Protecting private data is contrary to Facebook’s whole reason for being. As long as Zuckerberg chooses profit over data security, it is not in the public

foreign actors. For example, evidence indicates that an organisation called the Mainstream Network urged voters to lobby their MP to support a no-deal Brexit and the law does not require such actors to identify themselves. Current legislation falls woefully short and needs to be updated, but as is usually the

Current legislation falls woefully short and needs to be updated

Unless serious regulation is put in place, Facebook will continue to live by its own rules. Source: Con Karampelas (via UnSplash) interest for Facebook to self-regulate. In Britain, Facebook has become third only to the BBC and ITV as a source of news and this is worrying considering the role they play in the spread of disinformation, particularly during election season. Facebook has essentially put democracy at risk by allowing voters to be targeted with fake news and personalised “dark adverts” from anonymous actors. In addition, one of the most important advantages Facebook has over traditional advertising media is the compilation of “shadow profiles” which contain all the information that other users and data collectors have supplied about Facebook users. Internal emails show that the company goes to great

lengths to acquire such data and that it is kept secret from their subjects. Recognising this, a House of Commons committee has called for Facebook to be regulated in the same way a media company is regulated so that it would face the same strict advertising regulations that govern television, print, and other media types. The committee’s recommendations include a compulsory Code of Ethics for tech companies, an independent regulator with powers to launch legal action against companies breaching code, and a tax on tech companies in the UK to support this new regulator. The committee also found that British election laws were not “fit for purpose” and were vulnerable to interference by hostile

case, policy and law are slow to change. Full Fact, a UK fact-checking organisation, said it welcomed the committee’s recommendations and made suggestions for an overhaul of current election and political advertising rules fit for the digital age. These include (1) having a public database of online political advertisements, provided in real time, with full information on content targeting, reach and spend and (2) the creation of the aforementioned Code of Ethics in a transparent way that involves the public – not just tech companies and the government. Facebook has been labelled as “digital gangsters” and it is clear that the era of self-regulation for tech companies must end immediately. But unless swift and strict action is taken against Zuckerberg and his company, they’ll always consider themselves to be ahead of and beyond the law.

Are a third of Britons really Islamophobic?

There is no doubt that the presence of Islamophobia is a deeply troubling force in British society, but is a new YouGov survey really indicative of nationwide attitudes towards Islam? by Yasmin Begum

report commissioned by antiracism organisation Hope Not Hate has found that a third of Britons believe that Islam threatens the British way of life. The polling was carried out by research organisation Yougov, and nearly a third of people thought that there were “no-go” areas in Britain where non-Muslims could not enter. The report, ‘Britain Divided? Rivers of Blood 50 Years on’ looks at infamous Conservative politician Enoch Powell, referencing his “Rivers of Blood” speech. A landmark speech in history, Powell stoked racial tension in the UK and has left a long and devastating legacy in the country. YouGov has undertaken polling for Hope Not Hate for the past eight years and interviewed 5000 people in their exclusive poll on multiculturalism in Britain. The report fails to give a research methodology or break down of participants, meaning that it’s hard to know exactly who was asked what and it does seem suspicious they haven’t included this vital information. It would be a fair assumption to make that asking

someone in rural England about Islam is going to elicit a different response to someone who is Muslim or someone who has grown up in and around

You can’t interview 5000 people and say, ‘right, that’s done, put the kettle on’ Muslim communities. Likewise, the uncertainty in its methodology and sample means we cannot say that this is a “sample study”. This sample doesn’t represent all of the UK, but the reporting of this polling (which is now a year and one month out of date) draws on this information to make it typical for the population at large. The resurrection of this report and its polling in popular media comes at a time when

Bethnal Green schoolgirl, Shamima Begum, had her citizenship taken away from her in after asking to come back to the UK. Having left the country at 15, Begum and her baby son are now stateless. It’s illegal under international law to make someone stateless, but the UK incorrectly asserted that she held Bangladeshi citizenship when she does not. The Bangladeshi ministry of foreign affairs has asserted this and the fact that there is ‘no question’ of her being allowed into the country. The everyday depictions and discussions of British Muslims and of Islam has a seeping effect into the lived experiences and attitudes towards Muslims that shape policy and shape how we talk about Muslims in our day to day lives. A third of Britons probably don’t believe that Islam threatens the British way of life. You can’t interview 5000 people and say, ‘right, that’s done, put the kettle on’ as if you have waved a wand and neatly summated race and faith relations for the whole of the UK. People in different areas think different ways about different topics, after all.

There’s a disconnect between organisations, think tanks and third sector groups and academics who have been producing work on multiculturalism and Islam in the UK for many, many years. Cardiff is home to the Centre for Study of Islam in Britain, with a glittering array of publications added to its academic cohort that are key texts in the study of Islam in Britain. These are well-worn and tired tropes; the trope of the “no-go” zones where Muslims cannot enter because of ethnic separatism; the trope of Islam being a threat to the British way of life (despite hundreds of years of Muslim settlement on this island). The real story about Islam, multiculturalism and the UK is not found in these reports. It’s found in the dayto-day study and experiences of communities. It’s in Butetown, Cardiff and in Pil, Newport. It’s in South Shields and Brixton and, let’s be honest, the sensationalism of Islamophobia is detrimental to public race and faith relations at a time of rising hate crime against ethnic and faith minorities.

COLOFN

The socioeconomic revolution: for-profit healthcare Excess clinical negligence claims and medical litigation threaten our healthcare system’s future

by Hannah Newberry

here are many pressing issues that can be observed through newspapers, TV coverage or simple knowledge from walking around the city on a daily basis regarding our healthcare system as it stands. The rise of private hospitals owned by people who seek investment opportunities, the role that shareholders now play in public policy where healthcare is reluctant to adopt a route that won’t produce promising profit margins, and the lack of accessibility we now have in relation to immediate treatments through hospital waiting times and appointment availability. In my student house, the oldest trick in the book is to cry over the phone when we fail to convince the receptionist that our problem is worthy of ever being seen. It might not be morally virtuous, but it’s the product of the desperate culture we are accustomed to in relation to our healthcare. You can deny its tangibility all you want, but our inclination to stay in bed rather than see a GP unless we’re on death’s door sometimes professes something more than our general apathy towards self-care. While Britain prides itself on being able to offer free healthcare and the NHS when many countries lack the resources or the democratic foundations to follow suit, it is not as true to life as we would hope. The increasing socioeconomic evolution that gradually treats healthcare as a commodity rather than a right is thriving every

day. There has always been a relative degree of private resourcing by the NHS (some of you may have noticed the existence of ‘private’ wards in hospitals before), and this often explains why we are mostly unperturbed by the possibility that Britain’s NHS could become an entirely commercial enterprise. The reality could involve cost-cutting by placing further pressure on hospital staff, who will then risk losing their jobs as so much faith is lost in the public healthcare system that taxpayers edge towards being in favour of private companies, much like the US insurance system. To fix this reality, we first need a colossal reform on the new trend of medical litigation and the scope of clinical negligence claims. Doctors are routinely shaken by their own alleged professional misconduct even when there is no evidence that compensation in tort will resolve these matters. The marketing of new technologies such as IVF is representative of how advanced we are in the sphere of healthcare, but it also comes at a cost when it engages with the greed of our western culture and places doctors on the front line. For example, the for-profit nature of IVF, a sought-after service, means that we often encourage people to spend their money through the promise of money-back guarantees, financial incentives and excessive compensation for any damage incurred. In order to reap profit in areas of healthcare that will never not have a demand, we allow

We’re failing to be socially concerned enough about the demise of our NHS as we know it. Source: Rohin Francis (via Flickr) costly litigation that demands funding from the victims and the third parties – never the people who are to blame for the unethical way in which we sell these advances to vulnerable people. This is likely to have a deterrent effect on people our age who wish to become doctors, ensuring that there are little to no staff willing to enter specialised fields that carry high negligence risks, or ensuring that students opt for safer career paths - therefore damaging the NHS’s need for staff further. When you consider the fact that we can make money from infertile people having to spend ‘vast sums in commercial clinics or foregoing the chance of ever having children’, we have to look at

reforming the way we view the inevitable inadequacies of free healthcare. And secondly, we need to take a serious look at what NHS privatisation would actually mean for us in the UK, aside from media scaremongering VS far-right indifference. A privatised healthcare system has been suggested to lead to treatments that aren’t always in our best interests if it is more cost-effective, and a huge rise in advertising for medicinal products. We have already depleted our funding for healthcare, and dangerous ideas that are proposed to encourage efficiency (such as GP Commissioning) are detrimental to our society as a whole when we could be proposing

other budget cuts to less imperative services like gene-editing and scientifically unfounded animal testing. To describe healthcare as a commodity in a country that prides itself on the NHS is not problematic, but merely appreciative of the definition of a commodity. Our society assigns a market value to all the latest tests and treatments, and even if this payment doesn’t come directly out of our salaries, it is manifested in waiting times, the pressure for the higher quality of private services and the social pressures that drive us to make decisions we’re not necessarily invested in, such as the sympathy that exists for a husband when his wife is unable to conceive. There is no reason why we should only fear the future of our healthcare system when it appears on BBC News after a long day of uni. There will never be a workable and reliable healthcare service provided that serves the best interests of its patients and staff unless we eradicate the idea that illness is profitable and should be exploited as such. The ‘for-profit’ revolution is incredibly real and a product of ‘emotional voting’ (as iterated weekly in the EU Referendum debates) and a false belief that total privatisation is impossible or too politically dangerous to pursue. When we look at the weekly humiliation that Twitter ignites around US politics and its indifference to healthcare concerns, we shouldn’t believe that there is nowhere to go but up for us just yet.

Languages for all - over?

The Transforming Cardiff plans pose a new threat to Cardiff’s Languages for All scheme - but this would prove detrimental to student life both during and after university by Alex Lambden

hey say that by learning a different language, you are provided with a different vision of life. As a Modern Languages student, I believe this quote demonstrates how learning a new tongue is so much more than a mode of communication, but one that opens you up to different customs, behaviours and ways of

Learning a new tongue is so much more than than a mode of communication life. An element of Cardiff University that I love is its commitment to upholding this international philosophy. Not only is it dedicated to preserving the Welsh language, but also the Languages for All classes that are allowing students to learn a multitude of languages from across the globe. This topic is highly relevant at the

moment due to its focus in Transforming Cardiff, a council paper outlining the upcoming changes to Cardiff University. The Languages for All scheme is to be ‘reviewed’ by the University, in hopes of finding the University an ‘additional cost saving method’ by either charging for the extracurricular courses, or scrapping them all together. The ‘Welsh for Adults’ course is under scrutiny too, with the University left unsure about its viability. Whilst this all comes down to economics, I believe that shutting down the languages scheme, or charging an admission fee, would be a huge loss to student life here in Cardiff. This scheme has acted as a huge enrichment for all of its participants, providing a competitive edge in graduate employment, creating opportunities to move abroad and broadening cultural awareness. In an increasingly globalised society, and at a time of Brexit tension, we should be focusing on the ways to deconstruct our world’s borders rather than isolating ourselves even greater. Languages for All helps to achieve this. Thanks to the Languages for All scheme, I was able to start learning Japanese during an intensive course

these benefits having a spill over effect onto a student’s main course of study, and quality of life. Not only does learning a language help with brain growth, attention span and ability to multitask, but it also helps learners to become less susceptible to Dementia.

The scheme has acted as a huge enrichment for all of its participants It would be a great loss if this scheme was to be scrapped by Cardiff University. Source: Languages For All. Cardiff University in June 2017. Any language is a novelty to learn and this was no exception; the course was united by a common love for learning a foreign tongue and culture, making this a standout experience throughout my time at Cardiff University. These courses are easily accessible for everyone, no matter their language level or age, and it’s a

great way to make new friends that share a cultural interest in a country. Since that first week, I have continued to attend the Japanese Languages for All classes and increase my language proficiency. The positive psychological effects created from language learning are also something to note, with many of

Languages for All and Welsh for Adults have become an instrumental part of student life here in Cardiff and would be a great loss should the university choose to either charge or scrap the courses. These courses have a continuously hard-working team that has provided such enrichment to the students that have participated in them, and I will always look back fondly when I think about my Japanese learning experience.

COMMENT

Karis Pearson

COLUMNROAD

Source: 2ser.com

Source: PublicDomainPictures.net

Britain, Brexit and bilingualism

s the English education system failing to offer sufficient foreign language education, or is it the responsibility of individuals to learn the skill if we want to? While Modern Foreign Languages featured somewhat in my primary and secondary education, there was never any requirement to study them and to be honest, to my own detriment, I never took it all that seriously myself. I found it difficult and tiresome and eventually would merely memorise the phrases I needed to pass GCSE French, rather than try to properly understand the language.

To my own detriment, I didn’t take my GCSE in French very seriosuly I highly commend and admire those around me who do take it upon themselves to become bi or multi-lingual, but I am definitely not alone in the lack of effort I have put in myself. Why is learning another language not a priority for so many students, both in England but also across the UK? English is the most commonly spoken world language, recognised and spoken in at least 51 countries. While there are other common languages too, including French, Arabic and Spanish, Brits tend to assume that English is on top and perhaps they are right. I have scarcely been anywhere in the world

where I was unable to communicate in English (even if I needed to use hand gestures as well). Whilst in Europe, multilingualism in the rule rather than the exception, in Britain, particularly England, this is far less the case. One possibility for Brits’ lack of language skills, when compared with our European neighbours, is a sense of superiority. Brexit highlighted a strongly held feeling across the UK that we are better off out of all that European stuff. Perhaps nostalgia filled ideas of a dominant UK are reflected in our lack of desire to learn French, Spanish or German. Additionally, there seems to be a tendency among Brits to complain about migrants who arrive in the country without perfect English. This, I believe, is wildly hypocritical; how many holidays do Brits take each year with, at most, a handful of native phrases in their pocket? More likely, I feel, is that most of us just can’t be bothered. Learning a language, especially post-childhood when our brains are no longer sponging everything up, requires discipline and hard work. The incentive is lower for those of us who are happy we possess a firm enough grasp of English, a language we can be confident will stand us in good stead wherever we go in the world. There are many reasons however why those of us who feel this way are missing out. Languages have the potential to broaden our horizons, as to be fluent in a language implies at least some knowledge of the culture associated with it. If you’re a fluent Spanish speaker you can visit Spain and immerse yourself more fully in the culture, conversing with

locals in their native tongue, experiencing Spanish life in a way that would most likely not be possible if you approached it in English. The benefits to learning languages are vast. Undeniably speaking a second or even third language broadens your eligibility for employment abroad and, according to NewScientist, “speaking a second language is one of the most effective forms of ‘brain training’ available.” It is a concern that post-Brexit, language skills among Brits will decline further. Brexit fuelled a resentment towards ‘others’ who are not recognised as a part of Britain and ‘British culture’ and an inherent distaste towards multiculturalism, a phenomenon closely linked with multilingualism. It is possible that once the UK has become more politically distant from its European neighbours, this will also distance us culturally and lingually.

It is a concern that post-Brexit, incentives to learn a European language will deteriorate further Amid all this finger pointing at the UK, let me not forget to recognise that Wales’ position on language is unique to the English setting from which I write my own experience. In Wales, the English language is just one of the two official languages spoken across the country, the second of which is of course

Welsh. In Wales, a proudly bilingual country, Cymraeg, or Welsh as it is known in English, is a crucial part the culture. While not every Welsh individual can speak the language, it has a long and rich history and the maintenance of the language is very important to many. In the 16th century the language of Welsh was largely banned when Henry VIII’s Act of Union gave England sovereignty over Wales. If you look back through history, it is England who are the main adversaries to the Welsh language, continuing to complain about it in parliament today. As an English person myself, who was born and raised in SouthEast England in a constituency which voted strongly for Brexit, I feel that there’s truth in saying that the English typically do not like what they do not understand. The England-centric view prevalent within the UK faces less threat if the English language reigns without interference, across the United Kingdom. Considering this, it isn’t necessarily surprising that Westminster don’t exactly fight for the Welsh language. A commonly heard criticism of maintaining Welsh is that it is an expensive venture with little gain. Well, look at it this way, the Welsh language is a part of the rich culture that makes Wales unique, arguably how many people in the UK feel about the Royal Family. Now, I am not a Royalist (far from it), but if you’re going to criticise the cost of upholding Welsh, you might want to take a look at how much is paid to the Royals, which far exceeds the former. The benefits to being bilingual, as previously mentioned, are

vast and learning one second language can make it easier to learn another.

Bilingualism is very beneficial and learning one second language can lead to more Last year, the Queen of controversy and click bait, Katie Hopkins, made headlines after criticising Welsh-medium schools because they, as she put it, “ban the use of English”. This attack was a perfect example of an ignorance which prevails in England and spurs on the failure to respect a language that is deemed ‘unnecessary’. It is not the responsibility of a monarch or parliamentarian sitting in England to decide the fate of a language even they cannot speak. In Wales, almost everyone can speak English, but according to the 2011 census, the Welsh language is only spoken by around 19% of the population. Seemingly Hopkins got it quite wrong, if any language is at risk of oblivion in Wales it certainly won’t be English. At the end of the day, I think that as individuals we will only begin to appreciate the breadth of opportunities that languages has the power to give, through fostering the skill as a requirement in UK schools. Due to the pure convenience of English, left to our own devices, many people just don’t bother with languages.

SPRING ELECTIONS CANDIDATE MANIFESTOS

MAKE YOUR CHOICE

ETHOLIADAUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;R GWANWYN MANIFFESTOS YMGEISWYR

GWNEWCH EICH DEWIS

MANIFESTO 2019

ELECTIONS EXPLAINED Your Students’ Union holds elections in order to allow you to choose your student leaders for the next academic year. There are seven full-time Sabbatical Trustees who will work on a full-time basis, taking a break from their studies or immediately after graduation, and ten part-time Campaign Officers who will work on a voluntary basis alongside their ongoing studies. They are your voice and act as your representatives in the Union, University, and wider community, fighting for you on an institutional, local and national level. Candidates produce manifestos that contain the ideas and principles of their campaigns. Ask yourself if they display the priorities as well as the key creative and communication skills that you would like to see in someone who is representing you and your needs.

What positions are available? We will be electing students for the following positions: FULL-TIME SABBATICAL TRUSTEES: (Seven different positions available). These positions are taken up from June 17th until June the following year. These positions are fulltime jobs so students have to take a year out during their time in office, unless they are graduating the same year. PART-TIME CAMPAIGN OFFICERS: (Nine different positions available). These positions are taken up in the beginning of July for the duration of the following academic year (2019/2020) and are carried out alongside their studies.

WHY VOTE? Simply put: As a student or postgraduate researcher at Cardiff University you will be affected by the decisions made by those elected in this election. By voting, you have the opportunity to vote for the things that you want developed and improved in both the University and the Union. Every single student at Cardiff university is entitled and encouraged to vote in the students’ union elections. It doesn’t matter if you are a home or international student, full-time or part-time student, an undergraduate or postgraduate taught student or a postgraduate researcher. As George Jean Nathan famously said: 'Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote'.

TRANSFERABLE VOTING Transferable voting is a system which allows voters to list the candidates in order of preference. The successful candidate will need more than 50% of the total number of votes in order to win. The candidate with the lowest number of votes is eliminated and their votes transferred. If you don’t believe any of the candidates standing for a position have the qualities you feel are valuable, or you do not agree with their manifesto, you can vote R.O.N. which stands for 're-open nominations'. For roles with multiple positions those who do not receive more votes than R.O.N will not be elected.

MANIFESTO 2019

ESBONIO'R ETHOLIADAU Mae eich Undeb Myfyrwyr yn cynnal etholiadau er mwyn caniatáu i chi ddewis eich arweinwyr ar gyfer y flwyddyn academaidd nesaf. Mae yna saith Swyddog Etholedig llawnamser a fydd yn gweithio ar sail lawn-amser, gan gymryd egwyl o’u hastudiaethau neu’n ymgymryd â’r swydd yn syth ar ôl graddio, a deg o Swyddogion Etholedig rhan-amser a fydd yn gweithio’n wirfoddol ynghyd â’u hastudiaethau. Nhw yw eich llais, a byddant yn gweithredu fel eich cynrychiolwyr yn yr Undeb, y Brifysgol ac yn y gymuned yn ehangach; yn brwydro ar eich rhan ar lefel sefydliadol, lleol a chenedlaethol. Mae ymgeiswyr yn cynhyrchu maniffestos sy’n cynnwys syniadau ac egwyddorion eu hymgyrchoedd. Holwch eich hun os ydynt yn dangos y blaenoriaethau yn ogystal â'r sgiliau creadigol a chyfathrebu allweddol yr hoffech chi eu gweld mewn rhywun sy’n eich cynrychioli chi a’ch anghenion.

Pa swyddi sydd ar gael? Byddwn yn ethol myfrywyr ar gyfer y swyddi canlynol: SWYDDOGION ETHOLEDIG LLAWN-AMSER: (Mae 7 swydd wahanol ar gael). Mae’r swyddi hyn yn dechrau ar 17eg Mehefin hyd Fehefin y flwyddyn ganlynol. Swyddi llawnamser yw’r rhain, felly rhaid i fyfyrwyr gymryd blwyddyn allan o’u hastudiaethau ar gyfer ymgymryd â hwy, oni fyddant yn graddio’r flwyddyn honno. SWYDDOGION RHAN-AMSER: (Mae nawr gwahanol swydd ar gael). Mae’r swyddi hyn yn cychwyn tua dechrau Gorffennaf, ac maent yn parhau am weddill y flwyddyn academaidd nesaf (2019/2020) a chant eu gwneud ochr-ynochr â’u hastudiaethau.

PAM PLEIDLEISIO? Yn syml: Fel myfyriwr neu ymchwilydd ôl-raddedig ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd, cewch eich effeithio gan y penderfyniadau a wneir gan y rheini a etholir yn yr etholiad hwn. Drwy bleidleisio, mae gennych y cyfle i ddylanwadu ar y pethau rydych chi eisiau eu datblygu a’u gwella yn y Brifysgol a’r Undeb. Mae gan bob myfyriwr ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd yr hawl i bleidleisio yn etholiadau Undeb y Myfyrwyr. Nid oes ots os ydych chi'n fyfyriwr cartref neu fyfyriwr rhyngwladol, yn astudio'n llawn-amser neu rhan amser, yn fyfyriwr is-raddedig neu ôl-raddedig ymchwil neu a addysgir. Fel y dywedodd George Jean Nathan: 'Caiff swyddogion gwael eu hethol gan ddinasyddion da sydd ddim yn pleidleisio'.

PLEIDLEISIAU SY’N TROSGLWYDDO Mae’r system o bleidleisiau sy’n trosglwyddo’n caniatáu i bleidleiswyr restru’r ymgeiswyr yn ôl eu hoffter ohonynt. Bydd yr ymgeisydd llwyddiannus angen mwy na 50% o’r cyfanswm o bleidleisiau er mwyn ennill. Bydd yr ymgeisydd gyda’r nifer lleiaf o bleidleisiau yn cael eu gwaredu a’u pleidleisiau’n cael eu trosglwyddo. Os ydych o’r farn nad oes gan unrhyw un o’r ymgeiswyr ar gyfer y swydd y nodweddion angenrheidiol, neu os ydych yn anghytuno a’u maniffesto, gallwch bleidleisio dros A.A.E. sef Ail Agor Enwebiadau. Ar gyfer rolau gyda swyddi lluosog, ni fydd y rhai nad ydynt yn derbyn mwy o bleidleisiau na A.A.E yn cael eu hethol.

MANIFESTO 2019

STUDENTS’ UNION PRESIDENT LLYWYDD UNDEB Y MYFYRWYR

The Students’ Union President leads the Sabbatical Trustee team and the Union as a whole. They act as the key link to the University Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice Chancellors, Council, and Senate, as well as the NUS and other key stakeholders. The role of the President includes acting as the chair of the Board of Directors and Trustees, along with being responsible for the financial position and performance of the Students’ Union.

Mae Llywydd yr Undeb Myfyrwyr yn arwain tîm y Swyddogion Etholedig a’r Undeb yn gyffredinol. Mae’n gweithredu fel cyswllt allweddol ag Is-ganghellor y Brifysgol, Dirprwy Is-ganghellor Profiad Myfyrwyr a Safonau Academaidd, y Cyngor a’r Senedd, yn ogystal ag UCM a rhanddeiliaid allweddol eraill. Mae rôl y Llywydd hefyd yn cynnwys gweithredu fel cadeirydd Bwrdd y Cyfarwyddwyr ac Ymddiriedolwyr, ynghyd â bod yn gyfrifol am sefyllfa ariannol a pherfformiad Undeb y Myfyrwyr.

MANIFESTO 2019

STUDENTS’ UNION PRESIDENT LLYWYDD UNDEB Y MYFYRWYR

AMR ALWISHAH Shwmae, I’m your VP Welfare & Campaigns. This year I’ve made groundbreaking achievements: implemented 100+ gender-neutral toilets, secured £4k+ for Black History Month, abolished letting agency fees from Sep-19 & more: bit.ly/ amrachievements I advocate for a Diverse, Representative and Empowering Union! #WeDeserveBetter EDUCATION PAID Placement opportunities for all courses Compassionate EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES procedure Fight for EU students post-Brexit Placement students: Subsidised travel costs and easier access to student support services Fight for rights of postgraduate students that teach #WeDeserveBetter LIBERATION Make CU CARBON NEUTRAL Establish SU sexual harassment and hate crime REPORTING CENTRE More counsellors, safe spaces (BME/LGBT+) & workshops to promote open conversations about mental health Lobby for more diverse curriculum Demand SUPPORT & FAIR treatment of international students Develop University-wide equality, diversity & inclusion policy Enhance campus-wide disability access Promote religious and cultural holidays #WeDeserveBetter SERVICES UPGRADE eduroam & routers in halls HOUSING ACCREDITATION SCHEME FREE gym membership Create equivalent SU at Heath Open day for local businesses to sponsor societies Great hall REDEVELOPMENT Enhance existing sports facilities & Invest in NEW spaces FREE laundry services in residences FREE sanitary products campus wide More quiet spaces for prayer & meditation That’s right we ALL deserve better! Vote Amr#1 for President Shwmae, fi yw eich IL Lles ac Ymgyrchoedd. Eleni rydw i wedi cyflawni llwyddiannau arloesol: rhoi 100+ o doiledau niwtral o ran rhyw, sicrhau £4k+ ar gyfer Mis Hanes Pobl Dduon, diddymu ffioedd asiantaeth gosod o Fedi 19 ymlaen a mwy: bit.ly/ amrachievements Rydw i’n dadlau dros Undeb Amrywiol, Cynrychioladol ac Awdurdodol! #RydynNi’nHaedduGwell ADDYSG Cyfleoedd mynd ar leoliad CYFLOGEDIG i bob cwrs Gweithdrefn dosturiol ar gyfer AMGYLCHIADAU ESGUSODOL Brwydro dros fyfyrwyr yr UE wedi Brexit Myfyrwyr ar leoliad: Cymorthdalu costau teithio a hwyluso mynediad at wasanaethau cefnogi myfyrwyr Brwydro dros hawliau myfyrwyr ôl-raddedig sy’n dysgu #RydynNi’nHaedduGwell RHYDDID Gwneud PC yn GARBON NIWTRAL Sefydlu CANOLFAN ADRODD aflonyddu rhywiol a throseddau casineb yn yr Undeb Mwy o gynghorwyr, mannau diogel (BME/LHDT+) a gweithdai i hyrwyddo sgyrsiau agored ynglŷn ag iechyd meddwl Lobio am gwricwlwm mwy amrywiol Mynnu CEFNOGAETH a thriniaeth DEG i fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol Datblygu polisi cydraddoldeb, amrywiaeth a chynhwysiant ar draws y Brifysgol Ehangu mynediad ar gyfer pobl anabl ar draws y campws Hyrwyddo gwyliau crefyddol a diwylliannol #RydynNi’nHaedduGwell GWASANAETHAU UWCHRADDIO eduroam a llwybryddion mewn neuaddau CYNLLUN ACHREDU TAI Aelodaeth campfa AM DDIM Creu Undeb y Myfyrwyr cyfwerth yn y Mynydd Bychan Diwrnod agored ar gyfer busnesau lleol i noddi cymdeithasau AILDDATBLYGIAD Y Neuadd Fawr Ehangu cyfleusterau chwaraeon presennol a buddsoddi mewn gofodau NEWYDD Gwasanaethau golch dillad AM DDIM mewn neuaddau preswyl Cynnyrch misglwyf AM DDIM ar draws y campws Mwy o fannau tawel ar gyfer gweddïo a myfyrdod Rydyn ni i GYD yn haeddu gwell! Pleidleisiwch Amr#1 fel Llywydd

JACKIE YIP ! VOTE YEP TO YIP ! Your Vice President Education ALREADY achieved: More PLUGS and EXTENSION CABLES in libraries ENDED 0% LATE SUBMISSION mark for September AUTOMATIC lecture recording unless opted out INCREASED book allowance from 15 to 35 SATURDAY EXAM BUS MORE E-books/E-journals FAIRER marking, only failed assessments are capped, not the entire module If elected, I will make Student Life: 1. INCLUSIVE: More INVESTMENT in MENTAL HEALTH support FREE DRUG and STI TESTING KITS in SU Protecting INTERNATIONAL students and HOME student’s rights to STUDY/ WORK/VOLUNTEER ABROAD LGBT+ SPECIFIC support Continue working at HEATH PARK ONCE A WEEK DONATE Surplus food in Uni and SU to the homeless Fairer EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES POLICY Support implementation of WELSH LANGUAGE OFFICER 2. HAPPY: More LECTURE RECORDINGS KETTLES and MICROWAVES in ALL study spaces Get a GREGGS on CAMPUS TEDTALK guest lecture series Get visiting THERAPY DOGS QUEUE JUMP for committee members in AU and FRESHERS FAYRE 3. AFFORDABLE: REFURBISHED GYM and MONTHLY PAYMENTS FREE TAMPONS in the SU CHEAPER CATERING across campus CHEAPER TRANSPORT across the city and more NEXTBIKES ! PLEIDLEISIWCH IE I YIP ! Eich Is-lywydd Addysg YN BAROD wedi llwyddo i: Mwy o BLYGIAU a CHEBLAU YMESTYN mewn llyfrgelloedd RHOI DIWEDD AR farc 0% am GYFLWYNIADAU HWYR ar gyfer mis Medi Recordio darlithoedd yn AWTOMATIG heblaw bod ysgol yn optio allan CYNYDDU nifer benthyg llyfrau o 15 i 35 BWS ARHOLIADAU DYDD SADWRN MWY o E-lyfrau/E-gylchgronau Marcio TECACH, dim ond asesiadau a fethwyd sy’n cael eu capio nid yr holl fodiwl Os caf fy ethol, byddaf yn gwneud Bywyd Myfyrwyr yn: 1. CYNHWYSOL: Mwy o FUDDSODDIAD mewn cefnogaeth IECHYD MEDDWL PECYNNAU PROFI AM HEINTIAU A DROSGLWYDDIR DRWY RYW a PHECYNNAU PROFI AM GYFFURIAU AM DDIM yn yr UNDEB Gwarchod hawliau myfyrwyr RHYNGWLADOL a myfyrwyr CARTREF i ASTUDIO/ GWEITHIO/GWIRFODDOLI DRAMOR Cefnogaeth BENODOL i LHDT+ Parhau i weithio ym MHARC Y MYNYDD BYCHAN UNWAITH YR WYTHNOS. Rhoi bwyd gwarged y Brifysgol a’r Undeb yn GYFRANIAD i’r digartref POLISI AMGYLCHIADAU ESGUSODOL tecach Cefnogi gweithrediad o gyflwyno SWYDDOG Y GYMRAEG 2. HAPUS: RECORDIO mwy o DDARLITHOEDD TEGELLAU a MICRODONAU ym MHOB man astudio Cael GREGGS ar y CAMPWS Cyfres darlithwyr gwadd TEDTALK Cael CŴN THERAPI i ymweld Caniatáu i aelodau pwyllgor yn yr UA NEIDIO’R CIW yn ystod FFAIR Y GLAS 3. FFORDDIADWY: ADNEWYDDU CAMPFA a THALIADAU MISOL TAMPONS AM DDIM yn yr Undeb ARLWYO RHATACH ar draws y campws TRAFNIDIAETH RATACH ar draws y ddinas a mwy o NEXTBIKES

MANIFESTO 2019

STUDENTS’ UNION PRESIDENT LLYWYDD UNDEB Y MYFYRWYR

PRISCILLA MUROPA As Students' Union President; it will be my aim and objective to ensue that all students' voices are heard. My motivation and inspiration is simple: I believe in this University and through the collective work of the executive committe, staff and students; we can continue with great progress that the University is making. Furthermore, I want to be remembered as a student president who pursued the wishes of the students to accomplish invaluable stuff for everyone concerned. I will be willing to do everything it takes, and do everything in my power and capacity to achieve this as students are my main concern. As a student president, I would bring leardership, commitiment and creativity to the role along with a strong work ethic, rational, practicality and a positive mental attitude. Thank you all, your vote always count. Fel Llywydd Undeb y Myfyrwyr; fy nod a fy amcan yw sicrhau fod yr holl fyfyrwyr yn cael eu clywed. Mae fy nghymhelliant ac ysbrydoliaeth yn syml: Rydw i’n credu yn y Brifysgol hon a thrwy waith ar y cyd rhwng y pwyllgor gwaith, staff a myfyrwyr, gallwn barhau gyda’r datblygiad gwych mae’r Brifysgol yn ei wneud. Hefyd, rydw i eisiau cael fy nghofio fel Llywydd Myfyrwyr a ddilynodd dymuniadau’r myfyrwyr i gyflawni pethau amhrisiadwy i bawb dan sylw. Byddaf yn barod i wneud beth bynnag sydd ei angen, a gwneud bod dim o fewn fy ngallu i gyflawni hyn gan mai myfyrwyr sydd bwysicaf i mi. Fel llywydd y myfyrwyr byddaf yn cyflwyno arweinyddiaeth, ymroddiad a chreadigrwydd i’r rôl ynghyd ag agwedd gweithgar, rhesymegol, ymarferol a meddwl positif. Diolch i chi gyd, mae eich pleidlais wastad yn cyfrif.

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

The VP Education represents all of you on academic issues to the University. They will lobby and negotiate with the University to encourage them to enact your feedback as well as liaising with the Information Services, including libraries. The VP Education is the Chair of the College Forums and is responsible for overseeing and promoting the Student Academic Rep system.

Mae’r Is Lywydd Addysg yn cynrychioli pob un ohonoch ar faterion academaidd i’r Brifysgol. Mae’r swyddog yn lobïo ac yn trafod â’r Brifysgol er mwyn ei hannog i weithredu ar eich adborth yn ogystal â chydgysylltu â’r Gwasanaethau Gwybodaeth yn cynnwys llyfrgelloedd. Yr Is Lywydd Addysg yw cadeirydd fforymau’r Coleg ac mae’n gyfrifol am oruchwylio a hyrwyddo system Cynrychiolwyr Academaidd y Myfyrwyr.

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

ERIN CLUSKEY Having previously represented students’ educational interests through my role as an ENCAP student representative, and sitting on the education executive as the Student Voice/Course-Based Society Representative for the college of Biological Life Sciences, I have experience in the issues students face within a range of courses across the entire university, and subsequently believe I would be an excellent representative of such a wide body of students from across the university. My goals are: to improve Eduroam: we are too dependent on it as a university for it to be failing us to instigate module fairs, to create a better understanding of the course content you may take in your next academic year to improve library resources – for example, if your dissertation topic is selected for you, then the university should provide the resources for you to succeed. Wedi cynrychioli buddiannau addysgol myfyrwyr yn y gorffennol drwy fy rôl fel cynrychiolydd myfyrwyr ENCAP, a bod ar bwyllgor gwaith addysg fel Cynrychiolydd Llais Myfyrwyr/Cymdeithas yn seiliedig ar gwrs ar gyfer Coleg Y Gwyddorau Biolegol a Bywyd, mae gen i brofiad yn y materion mae myfyrwyr yn eu hwynebu o fewn amrediad o gyrsiau ar draws yr holl brifysgol, ac o ganlyniad yn credu y byddaf yn gynrychiolydd gwych i garfan mor eang o fyfyrwyr ar draws y brifysgol. Fy amcanion yw: i wella Eduroam: rydyn ni’n rhy ddibynnol arno fel prifysgol iddo fod yn ddiffygiol i sefydlu ffeiriau modiwlau, i greu gwell dealltwriaeth o gynnwys y cwrs y gallwch eu cymryd yn y flwyddyn academaidd nesaf i wella adnoddau'r llyfrgelloedd - er enghraifft, os yw pwnc eich traethawd hir wedi ei ddewis ar eich cyfer, dylai’r brifysgol ddarparu’r adnoddau sydd ei angen arnoch i lwyddo.

OLIVER COPLESTON Hi, I’m Oliver Copleston and I want to be your next VP Education. I’m the current Computer Science President, a member of the Education Executive committee and Chair of Scrutiny Committee, amongst other roles. I know how the University and SU operate and I’m ready to use this knowledge to make Cardiff University an even better place to study. I’m campaigning for: A Module Rating System For Students, By Students - This will provide accountability for poor lecturing and make the education process more transparent. A More Compassionate University System - Too often students feel they are dealing with a machine rather than people, especially for extenuating circumstances. I want all interactions with the University to feel personal. Increased Support For Placement Students - By 2023, the University wants 50% of all undergrads to have work experience as part of their degree - that’s 6000 students a year! I know from experience that the University lacks the means to properly support these students. I will implement adequate staff training and better policies so students are no longer left in the dark. Thank you for reading, and please consider voting for Ollie’s Policies! Check out my full manifesto here: bit.ly/voteforVP Helo, Oliver Copleston ydw i ac rydw i’n ymgeisio i fod yr IL Addysg nesaf. Fi yw’r Llywydd Cyfrifiadureg presennol, yn aelod o’r Pwyllgor Gwaith Addysg ac yn gadeirydd y Pwyllgor Craffu, ynghyd a rolau eraill. Rydw i’n gwybod sut mae’r Brifysgol a’r Undeb yn gweithredu ac rydw i’n barod i ddefnyddio fy ngwybodaeth i wneud Prifysgol Caerdydd yn le hyd yn oed gwell i astudio. Rydw i’n ymgyrchu dros: System Sgorio Modiwlau i Fyfyrwyr gan Fyfyrwyr- Bydd hyn yn golygu atebolrwydd ar gyfer darlithio gwael a gwneud y prosesau addysg yn fwy tryloyw. System Brifysgol fwy Tosturiol - Yn rhy aml mae myfyrwyr yn teimlo fel eu bod yn delio gyda pheiriant yn hytrach na phobl, yn enwedig ar gyfer amgylchiadau esgusodol. Dwi eisiau i bob rhyngweithio gyda’r Brifysgol i deimlo’n bersonol. Cynnyddu Cefnogaeth i Fyfyrwyr ar Leoliad - Erbyn 2023, mae’r Brifysgol eisiau 50% o fyfyrwyr israddedig gael profiad gwaith fel rhan o’u gradd - mae hyn yn cyfateb i 6000 o fyfyrwyr y flwyddyn! Rydw i’n gwybod o brofiad nad oes gan y Brifysgol y modd i gefnogi'r myfyrwyr hyn yn ddigonol. Byddaf yn gweithredu hyfforddiant staff digonol a gwell polisïau fel na fydd myfyrwyr yn parhau i gael eu gadael yn y tywyllwch. Diolch am ddarllen, ac ystyriwch bleidleisio dros Bolisïau Ollie os gwelwch yn dda! Darllenwch fy maniffesto llawn yma:bit.ly/voteforVP

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

TOMOS EVANS Hi, I’m Tom Evans, a third-year BioMed student, and I am running to be your new VP Education! Why am I running? It’s because I believe that we students deserve to have a say in where the £9000, we pay every year, is spent. And to make sure that it goes to supporting every aspect of student life. Why should you vote for me? Well, for the past two years I have been heavily involved in the Students' Union as a Give It A Go team leader, co-president of SHAG, as secretary of CU-pride and elected as a member of student senate and the scrutiny committee. I have gained a fantastic understanding of the university and the students union and I am dedicated to representing every facet of our community. If you agree with my manifest below then vote Tom Evans for Education. Cheaper textbooks Improve assessment feedback International student support. Renewing student accommodation Implement printing allowance Better guidance on placements and hands-on degree experience. Kettles and microwaves in library buildings School relevant mental health counselors Free female sanitary products across campus Improved signposting to available services “Home safe” scheme after SU club nights. Haia, Tom Evans ydw i, myfyriwr Gwyddorau Biofeddygol yn fy nhrydedd flwyddyn yn ymgeisio i fod yr IL Addysg newydd! Pam ydw i’n ymgeisio? Oherwydd rydw i’n credu ein bod ni fel myfyrwyr yn haeddu cael dweud lle ddylai’r £9000 rydyn ni’n ei dalu bob blwyddyn gael ei wario. A gwneud yn siŵr ei fod yn mynd i gefnogi bob agwedd o fywyd myfyrwyr. Pam pleidleisio drosof fi? Wel, am y ddwy flynedd diwethaf rydw i wedi bod yn ymwneud yn helaeth gydag Undeb y Myfyrwyr fel arweinydd tîm Rho Gynnig Arni, cyd-lywydd SHAG, fel ysgrifennydd CU-pride ac wedi fy ethol fel aelod o senedd y myfyrwyr a’r pwyllgor craffu. Rydw i wedi ennill dealltwriaeth ffantastig o’r brifysgol ac undeb y myfyrwyr ac rydw i wedi ymrwymo i gynrychioli bob agwedd o ein cymuned. Os ydych chi’n cytuno gyda fy natganiad isod pleidleisiwch Tom Evans dros Addysg. Gwerslyfrau rhatach. Gwella adborth asesiadau. Cefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol. Adnewyddu lletyau myfyrwyr. Gweithredu lwfans argraffu. Gwell arweiniad ar leoliadau a phrofiad gradd ymarferol. Tegellau a microdonau mewn adeiladau llyfrgelloedd. Cynghorwyr Iechyd Meddwl perthnasol i bob ysgol. Cynnyrch misglwyf am ddim i fenywod ar draws y campws. Gwell cyfeirio at wasanaethau sydd ar gael. Cynllun “Adref yn ddiogel” wedi nosweithiau clwb yr Undeb.

BETHANY GRIFFITHS Hi, I’m Bethany! Since starting university in 2016 I have always been passionate about the student experience. Over the last 2 years I have gradually got more involved with the Student’s Union – I’m now a Student Rep for the school of English, Communication and Philosophy, and am a member of Jackie Yip’s Education Executive! Now I want to stand as VP Education and work to ensure your voice is represented in our Union! As your VP Education I will: Campaign for better transport links across the university. Work with the university to prioritise timetabling issues, producing a system that will ensure timetabling problems are sorted before term starts. Work with staff and students to improve the communication between Cathays and Heath Park. Campaign to revolutionise the libraries: more reasonable library fines, more plug sockets and USB chargers, and the introduction of kettles, microwaves, and water fountains. Work with the university towards improving feedback across the board. Campaign for improvements in student support: addressing late exams, multiple deadlines on the same day, and campaigning for improvements in extenuating circumstances. Work towards improving communication links between staff and students. Vote Bethany – let’s work together! Helo, Bethany ydw i! Ers dechrau yn y Brifysgol yn 2016 rydw i wastad wedi bod yn angerddol ynglŷn â phrofiad myfyrwyr. Dros y 2 flynedd diwethaf rydw i wedi ymwneud mwy gydag Undeb y Myfyrwyr - rydw i nawr yn Gynrychiolydd Myfyrwyr, ar gyfer yr Ysgol Saesneg, Cyfathrebu ac Athroniaeth, ac yn aelod o Bwyllgor Gwaith Addysg Jackie Yip! Rydw i nawr eisiau ymgeisio i fod yn IL Addysg a gweithio i sicrhau fod eich llais yn cael ei gynrychioli yn yr Undeb! Fel eich IL Addysg byddaf yn: Ymgyrchu dros gysylltiadau trafnidiaeth gwell ar draws y Brifysgol. Gweithio gyda’r brifysgol i flaenoriaethu problemau amserlennu, yn creu system a fydd yn sicrhau bod problemau amserlennu yn cael ei datrys cyn i’r tymor ddechrau. Gweithio gyda staff a myfyrwyr i wella cyfathrebu rhwng Cathays a’r Mynydd Bychan. Ymgyrchu i chwyldroi'r llyfrgelloedd: dirwyon llyfrgell fwy rhesymol, mwy o socedi trydan a mannau gwefru USB, cyflwyno tegellau, microdonau a ffynhonnau dŵr. Gweithio gyda’r brifysgol tuag at wella adborth ledled y brifysgol . Ymgyrchu dros welliannau mewn cefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr: yn mynd i’r afael ag arholiadau hwyr, cyfres o ddyddiadau cau ar yr un diwrnod, ac ymgyrchu dros welliannau mewn amgylchiadau esgusodol. Gweithio tuag at wella cysylltiadau cyfathrebu rhwng staff a myfyrwyr. Pleidleisiwch Bethany - gadewch i ni weithio gyda’n gilydd!

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

NICOLE HAYLOR-MOTT

SOPHIA KHIRANI

Hi! I’m Nicole Haylor-Mott and I would love to be your VP Education! I’m a third year Law student, and I’m currently a Team Leader on the Advice and Welfare Exec in the SU. I have hugely enjoyed assisting fellow students in this role, together with other roles I have carried out within the SU in the past. I feel passionately about every student being able to thrive in and enjoy their university experience, and would love to be the person to reflect your voice in improving your academic experience.

About me: I am a third year International, Journalism and Communication student. I have been a Student Support Worker, ambassador for Cardiff Award, Languages for All and Student Ambassador, Lead Volunteer with Cardiff Volunteering, Academic Representative & in the Education Exec. I know what changes are needed from my engagement and I am driven to make change, to serve & represent all students.

Vote for me to vote for: Assisting the University in improving the personal tutor system Increasing plug sockets and improving lighting in all work spaces Increasing use of electronic resources and electronic submission systems for all Working towards a centralised extenuating circumstances procedure which is fair for all Improving access to feedback on all submitted work and transcripts Improving timetabling by reducing occurrences of unreasonable gaps to move between buildings Increasing assistance for placement students when accessing placements and allowing easier access to wellbeing services whilst on placement

What I will make happen: Lobby schools to PUBLISH RECORDINGS OF FIRST LECTURES to help student pick modules better. MAKE SU & UNIVERSITY ACCESSIBLE: signed and subtitled lecture capture, braille signs & plain text versions of all guides. Include EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION REPS in academic rep system. Create MORE STUDY ROOMS open 24/7 during exam period. Policies for schools to publish PAST PAPERS, INCLUDING MARK SCHEME, in every module. Creating systems to SUPPORT PLACEMENT STUDENTS, Heath students and distance learners. Tackle BME ATTAINMENT GAP. Implement PHONE-CHARGING LOCKERS in all libraries. Demand University to have clear plan for a CURRICULUM INCLUSIVE OF LGBT+, BME & INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS. Introduce a PEER ACADEMIC LEARNING (PAL) scheme. Abolish Saturday Exams. Demand TRANSPARENCY OF TUITION FEES, including breakdown of “hidden costs”. LOBBY university to on BEHALF OF EU/ERASMUS STUDENTS POST BREXIT.

I would be so grateful if you #VoteNicole for your VP Education! Thank you! Haia! Nicole Haylor-Mott ydw i ac fe garwn i fod yn IL Addysg arnoch! Rydw i’n fyfyrwraig Y Gyfraith yn fy nhrydedd flwyddyn ac yn Arweinydd Tîm ar y Pwyllgor Gwaith Lles yn yr Undeb. Rydw i wedi mwynhau cynorthwyo cyd fyfyrwyr yn y rôl hon yn fawr, yn ogystal â rolau eraill rydw wedi eu mabwysiadu o fewn yr Undeb yn y gorffennol. Rydw i’n teimlo’n angerddol y dylai bob myfyriwr gael y gallu i ffynnu a mwynhau yn ystod eu profiad yn y brifysgol, ac fe garwn gael bod yn unigolyn sy’n adlewyrchu eich llais ac yn gwella eich profiad academaidd. Pleidleisiwch drosof i bleidleisio dros: Yn cynorthwyo’r Brifysgol i wella’r system tiwtoriaid personol Cynyddu nifer y socedi trydan a gwella goleuo ym mhob man gwaith Cynyddu’r defnydd o adnoddau trydanol a systemau cyflwyno electronig i bawb Gweithio tuag at weithdrefn amgylchiadau esgusodol canolog sydd yn deg i bawb Gwella mynediad at adborth ar bob gwaith a thrawsgrifiadau a gyflwynir Gwella amserlennu drwy leihau achosion o flychau amser afresymol i fynd o un adeilad i’r llall Cynyddu cymorth i fyfyrwyr ar leoliad wrth fynd i leoliad a chaniatáu mynediad haws i wasanaethau lles pan ar leoliad Fe fyddaf i yn hynod ddiolchgar pe byddech chi’n #PleidleisioNicole fel eich IL Addysg! Diolch!

Amdanaf fi: Rydw i’n fyfyriwr rhyngwladol yn fy nhrydedd flwyddyn yn astudio Newyddiaduraeth a Chyfathrebu. Rydw i wedi bod yn Weithiwr Cefnogi Myfyrwyr, llysgennad ar gyfer Gwobr Caerdydd, Llysgennad Myfyrwyr Ieithoedd i Bawb, Prif Wirfoddolwr gyda Gwirfoddoli Caerdydd, Cynrychiolydd Academaidd ac yn y Pwyllgor Gwaith. Rydw i’n gwybod pa newidiadau sydd ei angen o ganlyniad i fy ymgysylltiad ac rydw i yn benderfynol o wneud gwahaniaeth, i wasanaethu a chynrychioli bob myfyriwr. Beth fyddaf i yn ei gyflawni: Lobio ysgolion i GYHOEDDI RECORDIAD O DDARLITH GYNTAF MODIWL i helpu myfyrwyr ddewis modiwlau yn well. GWNEUD YR UNDEB A’R BRIFYSGOL YN HYGYRCH: recordiau darlithoedd wedi ei harwyddo a gydag is-deitlau, arwyddion breil a fersiwn testun plaen o bob canllaw. Cynnwys CYNRYCHIOLWYR CYDRADDOLDEB, AMRYWIAETH a CHYNHWYSIANT yn y system cynrychiolwyr academaidd. Creu MWY O YSTAFELLOEDD ASTUDIO ar agor am 24/7 yn ystod cyfnod yr arholiadau. Polisïau yn gorfodi ysgolion i gyhoeddi CYN-BAPURAU yn CYNNWYS CYNLLUN MARCIO, ym mhob modiwl. Creu systemau i GEFNOGI MYFYRWYR AR LEOLIAD, myfyrwyr y Mynydd Bychan a dysgwyr o bell. Mynd i’r afael â BWLCH CYRHAEDDIAD BME. Gweithredu LOCERI GWEFRU FFONAU ym mhob llyfrgell. Mynnu fod y Brifysgol yn cael cynllun clir ar gyfer CWRICWLWM SY’N GYNHWYSOL I FYFYRWYR LHDT+, BME a RHYNGWLADOL. Cyflwyno cynllun DYSGU CYD FYFYRWYR (PAL) Diddymu Arholiadau ar Ddyddiau Sadwrn Mynnu TRYLOYWDER FFIOEDD DYSGU yn cynnwys dadansoddiad o “gostau cudd”. LOBIO’R brifysgol ar RAN MYFYRWYR YR UE/ERASMUS WEDI BREXIT.

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

JONATHAN MATCHETT Jonathan Matchett – Manifesto Siwmae! I’m Jonnie and I want to be your VP for Education. I’ve worked with the University and Students Union since first year and feel like I’m now in a position to make real change if I get voted in as VP Education this year. I understand the pressures of today’s education system and would like to make changes for the better for all of us. There are three items I would like to work on: 1. University Transparency on issues like funding and strike action 2. Improving Mental Health services within schools 3. The Cardiff experience: getting the most out of your degree I believe the Vice Chancellor should write a monthly newsletter detailing information about current events within the university such as debt, funding and strikes. I believe personal tutors should have more mental health training than just the 3 hours per year they currently get and would like to introduce a designated member of staff in each school to be a dedicated mental health coordinator. Finally I will fight against libraries closing and for libraries such as the science library to stay open until midnight. Find me on Facebook under Jonnie Quincy Matchett. Jonathan Matchett - Maniffesto Shwmae! Jonnie ydw i ac rydw i eisiau bod yn IL Addysg. Rydw i wedi bod yn gweithio gyda’r Brifysgol ac Undeb y Myfyrwyr ers fy mlwyddyn gyntaf ac yn teimlo fel fy mod i nawr mewn sefyllfa i wneud gwahaniaeth gwirioneddol os caf fy ethol fel IL Addysg eleni. Rydw i’n deall y pwysau sydd ynghlwm â system addysg heddiw ac fe hoffwn wneud newidiadau er gwell i bob un ohonom. Mae tair eitem yr hoffwn weithio arnynt: 1. Tryloywder Prifysgol ar faterion megis cyllid a gweithredu diwydiannol 2. Gwella gwasanaethau Iechyd Meddwl o fewn ysgol. 3. Profiad Caerdydd: cael y gorau o’n gradd. Rydw i’n credu y dylai’r Isganghellor ysgrifennu cylchlythyr misol yn manylu gwybodaeth ynglŷn â digwyddiadau presennol o fewn y Brifysgol megis dyledion, cyllid a gweithredu diwydiannol. Rydw i’n credu y dylai tiwtoriaid personol gael mwy o hyfforddiant iechyd meddwl na’r 3 awr y flwyddyn maent yn ei gael ar hyn o bryd a hoffwn gyflwyno aelod dynodedig o staff ym mhob ysgol i fod yn gydlynydd iechyd meddwl ymroddedig. Yn olaf byddaf yn brwydro yn erbyn cau llyfrgelloedd ac ar gyfer llyfrgelloedd megis y llyfrgell gwyddoniaeth i aros ar agor tan hanner nos. Dewch o hyd i mi ar Facebook gyda’r enw Jonnie Quincy Matchett.

CALLUM MCCARTHY Education Executive | Assessment and feedback team | Secretary of the SSP Shwmae | Hello Truthfully, I am campaigning to be your Vice President of Education because I fully believe that Cardiff University is in dire need of change. Organisation and planning: The reducing of clashes through the creation of a university system made to regulate, manage and provide clearer information about the current availability of rooms. Improvements to time-tabling so that modules are better spread out (no 30% 70% semesters) through the use of the regulation system. Banning the university from changing what your optional modules after you have applied for your degree. Personal tutors: Better training for personal tutors so that they can be a better tutor and the increase in information that personal tutors can see so that they can better help you. Dissertation supervisors: Improved monitoring and training of dissertation supervisors to promote fairer treatment. Assessment and feedback: The ability for students to be able to challenge lecturers on the grades. Improved assessment guidance and assessment feedback through the creation of a system to better monitor university staff. All lectures to be recorded using panopto, and all students to be granted access to the recordings. Pwyllgor Gwaith Addysg | Tîm Asesu ac Adborth | Ysgrifennydd y PSM Shwmae Mewn gwirionedd rydw i’n ymgyrchu dros fod yn Is-lywydd Addysg oherwydd rydw i’n llawn gredu fod angen enbyd am newid ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd. Trefnu a chynllunio: Lleihau gwrthdaro drwy greu system prifysgol sy’n rheoli a darparu gwybodaeth gliriach ynglŷn ag argaeledd ystafelloedd ar hyn o bryd. Gwelliannau i amserlenni fel bod modiwlau wedi cael eu gwasgaru yn well (dim cydbwysedd tymhorau 30% - 70%) drwy ddefnydd system rheoliadau. Gwahardd y brifysgol rhag newid beth yw eich modiwlau opsiynol wedi i chi wneud cais am eich gradd. Tiwtoriaid personol: Gwell hyfforddiant i diwtoriaid personol fel y gallant fod yn well tiwtor a chynyddu’r wybodaeth y gall tiwtoriaid personol ei weld fel y gallant fod yn fwy o gymorth. Goruchwylwyr traethawd hir: Monitro a hyfforddiant gwell i oruchwylwyr traethawd hir i feithrin triniaeth decach. Asesu ac adborth: Y gallu i fyfyrwyr herio darlithwyr ar eu graddau. Gwell arweiniad ar asesiadau ac adborth ar asesiadau drwy greu system i fonitro staff y brifysgol yn well. I bob darlithydd gael eu recordio gan ddefnyddio panopto, ac i bob myfyriwr gael mynediad i’r recordiadau.

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

DARINA NIKOLOVA

MICAELA PANES

Hello, Zdraveite, Hola, Bonjour, Shwmae! VOTE DARINA THE MANDARINA! Through my time at Cardiff University I have interacted with students in a variety of ways: MUN society, Dancesport, SSP chair, Student Ambassador, Freshers Advice Team, LATAM society and more. To continue to improve student experience I would work on things such as: Assessments and feedback, providing DIFFERENT TYPES of assessments, FREE BUS TRANSPORT during the exam periods to the All Nations Centre, provide access to FIRST MARKING (script) for exams and continue to work for the SAFETY-NET MODULE SYSTEM providing more choice and safety. I also want to work on improving Academic resources, this would include compulsory materials being available in a SCANNED COPY, EXTENDING LIBRARIES OPENING TIMES to midnight, and the ability to REQUEST books from libraries that would normally be CLOSED during VACATION BREAKS. In addition to the above, I want to CONTINUE working to improve the Personal Tutor and Academic Rep systems, WORK WITH the careers teams to CREATE FAIRS to allow scholars to present their research to students developing knowledge and research options, INCREASE the range of placements as well as DEVELOP student’s KNOWLEDGE pre-arrival to Cardiff with an INTERACTIVE VIDEO.

Hello, I’m Micaela Panes. I am running for VP Education as I believe that I’m the person who will truly represent and campaign for ALL students across Cardiff. As an MA history student - holding positions as Secretary for SHARE’s StudentStaff Panel and PG Officer on Cardiff’s HistorySoc Committee - I have become passionate for promoting the student voice and ensuring students feel empowered and valued in our academic community. I have three core points which will transform the student experience at Cardiff:

Hello, Zdraveite, Hola, Bonjour, Shwmae! PLEIDLEISIWCH DARINA Y MANDARINA! Drwy gydol fy nghyfnod ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd rydw i wedi rhyngweithio gyda myfyrwyr mewn amrywiaeth o ffyrdd: Cymdeithas Model Cenhedlodd Unedig, Dancesport, Cadeirydd PSM, Llysgennad Myfyrwyr, Tîm Cyngor Y Glas, Cymdeithas LATAM a mwy. I barhau i wella eich profiad myfyriwr byddaf yn gweithio ar bethau megis: Asesiadau ac adborth, yn darparu GWAHANOL FATHAU o asesiadau, TRAFNIDIAETH BWS AM DDIM i’r Ganolfan yr Holl Genhedloedd yn ystod cyfnod yr arholiadau, darparu mynediad i (sgript) MARCIO CYNTAF ar gyfer arholiadau a pharhau i weithio ar gyfer y SYSTEM DIOGELWCH MODIWL yn darparu mwy o ddewis a diogelwch. Rydw i hefyd eisiau gweithio ar wella adnoddau academaidd, byddai hyn yn cynnwys deunydd angenrheidiol ar gael mewn COPI WEDI EI SGANIO, RHOI ESTYNIAD AR AMSEROEDD AGOR LLYFRGELLOEDD hyd hanner nos, a’r gallu i WNEUD CAIS am lyfrau o lyfrgelloedd a fyddai AR GAU yn ystod CYFNODAU O WYLIAU. I ychwanegu at yr uchod, rydw i eisiau PARHAU i weithio tuag at wella systemau Tiwtoriaid Personol a Chynrychiolwyr Academaidd, GWEITHIO GYDA'r timau gyrfaoedd i GREU FFEIRIAU i ganiatáu ysgolheigion i gyflwyno eu hymchwil i fyfyrwyr sy’n datblygu gwybodaeth ac opsiynau ymchwil, CYNYDDU'r amrywiaeth o leoliadau yn ogystal â DATBLYGU GWYBODAETH myfyrwyr cyn iddynt gyrraedd Caerdydd gyda FIDEO RHYNGWEITHIOL.

1. GET THE MOST FROM YOUR TUITION FEES! FREE PRINTING ALLOWANCE for all students. Increased SUPPORT for students undertaking PLACEMENTS. SUBSIDISED core textbooks. 2. GET THE MOST FROM YOUR DEGREE! BANNING Saturday and late afternoon exams. Option to submit DRAFT ASSIGNMENTS. ‘READING WEEK’ for ALL STUDENTS. More PLUGS across campuses and libraries, and increased STUDY SPACES. Promoting CAPPED LATE SUBMISSIONS. 3. GET REPRESENTED! Ensuring STUDENTS ARE REPRESENTED and have a voice throughout the huge developments being made through the ‘TRANSFORMING CARDIFF PROGRAMME’. REFORM the Student Rep system. Establishing a CLOSER RELATIONSHIP between the Student Union and academic schools – not forgetting Heath Park! #NoPanesNoGains Full manifesto: www.facebook.com/MicaelaPanesVPEducation Helo, Micaela Panes ydw i. Rydw i’n ymgeisio dros fod yn IL Addysg gan fy mod yn credu mai fi yw’r person a fydd yn wirioneddol cynrychioli ac ymgyrchu dros HOLL fyfyrwyr ar draws Caerdydd. Fel myfyriwr MA hanes - yn dal swydd fel Ysgrifennydd ar gyfer Panel Staff Myfyrwyr SHARE a Swyddog Ôl-raddedig ar bwyllgor HistorySoc Caerdydd - Rydw i wedi datblygu angerdd dros hyrwyddo llais y myfyrwyr a sicrhau fod myfyrwyr yn teimlo fel bod ganddynt rym a gwerth yn ein cymuned academaidd. Mae gen i dri phwynt craidd a fydd yn gweddnewid y profiad myfyriwr yng Nghaerdydd: 1. GWNEWCH Y MWYAF O’CH FFIOEDD DYSGU! LWFANS ARGRAFFU AM DDIM i bob myfyriwr. Mwy o GEFNOGAETH i fyfyrwyr sy’n mynd ar LEOLIAD. CYMORTHDALU tuag at werslyfrau craidd. 2. GWNEWCH Y MWYAF O’CH GRADD! GWAHARDD arholiadau Dydd Sadwrn ac arholiadau yn hwyr yn y prynhawn. Opsiwn i gyflwyno ASEINIADAU DRAFFT. ‘WYTHNOS DDARLLEN’ i’r HOLL FYFYRWYR. Mwy o SOCEDI o amgylch y campws a llyfrgelloedd a chynyddu MANNAU ASTUDIO. Hyrwyddo CYFLWYNIADAU HWYR WEDI EU CAPIO. 3. EICH CYNRYCHIOLI CHI! Sicrhau fod MYFYRWYR YN CAEL EU CYNRYCHIOLI a chael llais drwy gydol y datblygiadau enfawr sy’n cael eu gwneud drwy’r ‘CYNLLUN TRAWSNEWID CAERDYDD’. DIWYGIO’R system Cynrychiolwyr Myfyrwyr. Sefydlu PERTHYNAS AGOSACH rhwng Undeb y Myfyrwyr ac ysgolion academaidd - heb anghofio Parc y Mynydd Bychan! #PleidleisiwchPanes Maniffesto llawn: www.facebook.com/MicaelaPanesVPEducation

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION IS LYWYDD ADDYSG

JOSHUA PRIOR ACHIEVE HIGHER WITH JOSUHA PRIOR Students' Union Receptionist | Student Advice Team Leader | Student Senator 1. BETTER STUDY SPACES More BOOKABLE ROOMS Access to the BOOKING SYSTEM IMPROVE LIBRARIES with: LIGHTS / POWER SOCKETS / USB PORTS Signposting REVISION SPACES 2. IMPROVED LEARNING ENVIRONMENT EARLIER timetables ONLINE Release EXAM SCRIPTS and more FEEDBACK PAST PAPERS and MODEL ANSWERS Provide JOINT HONOURS students with more SUPPORT INFORMATION for MODULE CHOICES Support for JOMEC students LECTURE RECORDINGS More placements for students 3. EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES and APPEALS Make MENTAL HEALTH a priority SIMPLIFY the process Ensure CONSISTENCY 4. EMPLOYABILITY PROMOTE the SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SERVICE Support COURSE-BASED SOCIETIES Invite more EMPLOYERS to GIVE TALKS EXTRA GUEST SPEAKERS More CAREER EVENTS for Schools 5. THE ROLE Run DROP-INS for students to share CONCERNS ACTIVELY ENGAGE with students; have REAL CONVERSATIONS INTEGRATE THE HEATH by spending more time there REVAMP the Student Rep system COMPULSORY training for TUTORS 6. THE SU Renovate the STUDENT KITCHEN with MICROWAVE / FRIDGE / OTHER PROMOTE their 24/7 STUDY SPACE INTRODUCE a PHARMACY CYFLAWNI MWY GYDA JOSHUA PRIOR Derbynnydd Undeb y Myfyrwyr | Arweinydd Tîm Cyngor i Fyfyrwyr | Seneddwr Myfyrwyr 1. MANNAU ASTUDIO GWELL Mwy o YSTAFELLOEDD Y GELLID EU HARCHEBU Mynediad i’r SYSTEM ARCHEBU GWELLA LLYFRGELLOEDD gyda: GOLEUADAU / SOCEDI PŴER / PORTHAU USB Cyfeirio myfyrwyr at FANNAU ADOLYGU 2. AMGYLCHEDD DYSGU GWELL Amserlenni AR-LEIN CYNHARACH Rhyddhau SGRIPT ARHOLIADAU a mwy o ADBORTH CYN-BAPURAU ac ATEBION ENGHREIFFTIOL Darparu mwy o GEFNOGAETH i fyfyrwyr CYDANRHYDEDD GWYBODAETH ar gyfer DEWISIADAU MODIWLAU Cefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr JOMEC RECORDIO DARLITHOEDD Mwy o leoliadau ar gyfer myfyrwyr. 3. AMGYLCHIADAU ESGUSODOL AC APELIADAU Gwneud IECHYD MEDDWL yn flaenoriaeth Gwneud y broses yn FWY SYML Sicrhau CYSONDEB 4. CYFLOGADWYEDD HYRWYDDO’R GWASANAETH DATBLYGU SGILIAU Cefnogi CYMDEITHASAU YN SEILIEDIG AR GWRS Gwahodd mwy o GYFLOGWYR i ROI SGYRSIAU SIARADWYR GWADD YCHWANEGOL Mwy o DDIGWYDDIADAU GYRFAOEDD i Ysgolion 5. Y RÔL Cynnal SESIYNAU GALW HEIBIO i fyfyrwyr i rannu PRYDERON YMWNEUD â myfyrwyr yn GYSON; cael TRAFODAETHAU GO IAWN YMGYFUNO’R MYNYDD BYCHAN drwy dreulio mwy o amser yno AILWAMPIO’R system Cynrychiolwyr Myfyrwyr Hyfforddiant GORFODOL i DIWTORIAID 6. YR UNDEB Adnewyddu CEGIN Y MYFYRWYR gyda MICRODON / OERGELL / ARALL HYRWYDDO eu MAN ASTUDIO 24/7 CYFLWYNO FFERYLLFA

HARLEY ROUSELL Hi, I’m Harley! Over the past three years, I have been an Education Executive, English Language academic chair and representative. I have enjoyed every minute of engaging with staff and making sure students have the best experience possible whilst at university. If elected as VP of education, I promise to do more! So, let Harley Help! HELP improve your academic experience: The opportunity to go on course trips to enhance learning for all The opportunity for a placement scheme for all Ability to print directly from laptops to all university printers More plugs in the libraries More engagement with personal tutors through an improved system HELP learning become more accessible: Ensuring 24 hours between exams Exam timetables distributed earlier in the year First semester exams before Christmas break More 24-hour libraries and computer rooms HELP integrate students better: Incorporate an international representative to encourage a connection amongst all students If you have any questions, feel free to contact me: (rousellhe@cardiff.ac.uk) Please remember to vote in the elections and let Harley Help! Haia, Harley ydw i! Dros y tair blynedd diwethaf, rydw i wedi bod yn Weithredwr Addysg, Cadeirydd a chynrychiolydd academaidd Saesneg Iaith. Rydw i wedi mwynhau bob eiliad o ymgysylltu â staff a gwneud yn siŵr fod myfyrwyr yn cael y profiad gorau posib pan yn y brifysgol. Os caf fy ethol yn IL Addysg, rydw i’n addo i wneud mwy! Felly gadewch i Harley Helpu! HELPU gwella eich profiad academaidd: Y cyfle i fynd ar deithiau cwrs i ehangu dysgu i bawb Y cyfle am gynllun lleoliad i bawb Y gallu i argraffu yn uniongyrchol o liniaduron i argraffwyr y brifysgol Mwy o socedi trydanol yn y llyfrgelloedd Mwy o ymgysylltu gyda thiwtoriaid personol drwy system well HELPU i ddysgu fod yn fwy hygyrch: Sicrhau 24 awr rhwng arholiadau Amserlenni Arholiadau i gael eu dosrannu yn gynt yn y flwyddyn Cynnal arholiadau’r tymor cyntaf cyn gwyliau’r Nadolig Mwy o lyfrgelloedd ac ystafelloedd cyfrifiaduron 24 awr HELPU integreiddio myfyrwyr yn well: Cynnwys cynrychiolydd rhyngwladol i annog cyswllt ymysg yr holl fyfyrwyr Os oes gennych unrhyw gwestiynau, mae croeso i chi gysylltu â fi: (rousellhe@ cardiff.ac.uk) Cofiwch bleidleisio yn yr etholiadau a gadewch i Harley Helpu!

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT HEATH PARK CAMPUS IS LYWYDD CAMPWS PARC Y MYNYDD BYCHAN

The VP Heath Park Campus works to improve the healthcare and medical student experience and the services at the Heath Park site. They are responsible for ensuring the growth of the Union’s offering at the Heath and also represent interests of healthcare and medical students at all levels of the University and Union.

Mae Is Lywydd Campws Parc y Mynydd Bychan yn gweithio i wella profiad myfyrwyr gofal iechyd a meddygol a’r gwasanaethau ar safle Parc y Mynydd Bychan. Mae’n gyfrifol am sicrhau twf yr hyn a gynigir gan yr Undeb ar Gampws Parc y Mynydd Bychan a hefyd yn cynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr gofal iechyd a meddygol ar bob lefel yn y Brifysgol a’r Undeb.

VICE PRESIDENT HEATH PARK CAMPUS

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD CAMPWS PARC Y MYNYDD BYCHAN

SHEKINA ORTOM Hello! I’m Shekina, Postgraduate Physiotherapy student. Currently, I’m on Heath Park Executive committee, student senator, student representative, member of the African Caribbean Society and Team CUSU. My vision is to create an inclusive, empowering and supportive Heath Park Campus for all. I believe heath park students’ voices deserve to be heard! As VP Heath Park, I can create change for all! I pledge to: Ensure IV LOUNGE is OPEN 24/7 and offers cheaper and more diverse food options. Set up WELL-BEING and STUDENT SUPPORT HUBS in placements across Wales. EXTEND OPENING HOURS of medic and student support services to cater for PLACEMENT YEAR STUDENTS. Provide NIGHT SHUTTLE-BUSES during exam time. Provide PAID PLACEMENTS and TRAVEL BURSARIES. Improve the organisation and communication of TIMETABLES. Create bigger common rooms and SOCIAL LEARNING SPACES. Develop better Students’ Union services and CAMPAIGNS AT HEATH. Provide more MICROWAVES, KETTLES and WATER FOUNTAINS across Heath. Facilitate better INTERDISCIPLINARY EVENTS, clinical workshops, skills and training. Create a comprehensive EQUALITY, DIVERSITY and INCLUSION strategic plan for all. Create a PEER TO PEER MENTORING scheme for various minority groups: BME, LGBTQ+, Disabilities, Women, carers, International students and more.

WHY WILL YOU VOTE? “TO GET REPRESENTATIVES WITH SIMILAR VALUES TO ME.”

So, Vote Shekina #1 For VP Heath Park! #HeathParkForever Helo! Shekina ydw i, myfyriwr Ffisiotherapi Ôl-raddedig. Ar hyn o bryd rydw i ar Bwyllgor Gwaith Parc y Mynydd Bychan, seneddwr myfyrwyr, cynrychiolydd myfyrwyr, aelod o’r Gymdeithas Garibïaidd Affricanaidd a Thîm UMPC. Fy ngweledigaeth yw creu Parc y Mynydd Bychan cynhwysol, grymus a chefnogol i bawb. Rydw i’n credu fod lleisiau myfyrwyr parc y mynydd bychan yn haeddu cael eu clywed! Fel IL Parc y Mynydd Bychan, gallaf greu newid i bawb! Rydw i’n gwarantu y byddaf yn: Sicrhau fod y LOLFA IV AR AGOR 24/7 ac yn cynnig opsiynau bwyd rhatach a mwy amrywiol. Sefydlu CANOLFANNAU LLES A CHEFNOGAETH I FYFYRWYR mewn lleoliadau ar draws Cymru. RHOI ESTYNIAD ORIAU AGOR gwasanaethau cefnogi myfyrwyr a meddygon i ddiwallu ar gyfer MYFYRWYR AR FLWYDDYN LLEOLIAD. Darparu BYSIAU GWENNOL GYDA’R NOS yn ystod cyfnod arholiadau. Darparu LLEOLIADAU Â CHYFLOG a BWRSARIAETHAU TEITHIO Gwella’r trefnu a chyfathrebu o amgylch AMSERLENNI. Creu ystafelloedd cyffredin mwy a GOFODAU DYSGU CYMDEITHASOL. Datblygu gwell wasanaethau ac YMGYRCHOEDD Undeb y Myfyrwyr yn Y MYNYDD BYCHAN. Darparu mwy o FICRODONAU, TEGELL, a FFYNHONNAU DŴR ar draws Y Mynydd Bychan. Hwyluso DIGWYDDIADAU RHYNGDDISGYBLAETHOL gwell a gweithdai, sgiliau a hyfforddiant clinigol. Creu cynllun CYDRADDOLDEB, AMRYWIAETH a CHYNHWYSIANT strategol cynhwysfawr i bawb. Creu cynllun mentora MYFYRIWR I FYFYRIWR ar gyfer amryw o grwpiau lleiafrifol: Myfyrwyr BME, LGBTQ+, Anableddau, Merched, Gofalwyr, Rhyngwladol a mwy. Felly, Pleidleisiwch Shekina #1 ar gyfer IL Y Mynydd Bychan! #ParcYMynyddBychanAmByth

PAM PLEIDLEISIO? “ER MWYN CAEL CYNRYCHIOLWYR A GWERTHOEDD TEBYG I MI.”

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IS LYWYDD MYFYRWYR OL-RADDEDIG

The VP Postgraduate Students will work closely with the Student Voice team and fellow Sabbatical Trustees on issues and policies that affect both Postgraduate Research (PGR) and Postgraduate Taught (PGT) Students. They communicate School and College level feedback from Postgraduate Students at University committees to lobby for change, and work with the Student Voice team and VP Education to facilitate the Academic Representation system for Postgraduates, providing support for the Reps to enable them to carry out their role. They are the principle contact for Postgraduates in the Students’ Union, working closely with and supporting the Postgraduate Students’ Association.

Bydd yr IL Myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig yn gweithio’n agos â’r tîm Llais Myfyrwyr a’ch chyd-swyddogion ar faterion a pholisïau sy’n effeithio ar Fyfyrwyr Ôlraddedig Ymchwil (ORY) ac Ôl-raddedig Addysgu (ORA), cyfathrebu adborth ar lefelau ysgol a choleg o Fyfyrwyr Ôlraddedig ym mhwyllgorau’r Brifysgol er mwyn lobïo ar gyfer newid, gweithio gyda’r tîm Llais Myfyrwyr a’r IL Addysg i hyrwyddo’r system Cynrychiolaeth Academaidd i ôl-raddedigion, darparu cefnogaeth i’r cynrychiolwyr i’w galluogi i gyflawni eu rolau a bod yn brif gyswllt i ôl-raddedigion yn yr Undeb Myfyrwyr. Maent yn gweithio'n agos gyda, a chefnogi’r Gymdeithas Myfyrwyr Ôlraddedig.

VICE PRESIDENT POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD MYFYRWYR OL-RADDEDIG

NICHOLAS FOX Shwmae! I’m Nick the former VP Welfare and this year’s Senate and AGM Chair, currently studying a Maths Masters. When I joined Cardiff almost 5 years ago, I had a full hairline and couldn’t grow a beard… For Postgraduates: Continue establishing a Postgraduate/Mature students’ community with events throughout the year. More affordable halls options between June-September. Ensure all Postgraduate inductions include SU and Student Support information. Encourage PGR students to join University and College Union (UCU). Go across campus and meet PGR students every week. Protect Postgraduate students from being disproportionately affected by University’s ‘Transforming Cardiff’ cost-saving restructuring. Not Just for Postgraduates: Implement a letting agent review so students can avoid the worst. Modules opted-out of lecture capture to specify in module information. Lobby for more Next Bikes across student areas. Fully support implementation of the Welsh Language officer passed at AGM but OPPOSE suggested VP Sports/Societies merger to fund this. ‘Cardiff University: Yesterday’s Technology, Tomorrow.’ Lobby for better investment in technology. Link up Student Support with JobShop, giving priority to some jobs to students in financial distress. Charge Met Students Quids-Into-YOLO to fund health initiatives. If you like what you see then for fox sake, Vote Nicholas Fox. Shwmae! Nick ydw i, y cyn IL Lles a Chadeirydd y Senedd a’r CCB eleni, ac ar hyn o bryd yn astudio Gradd Meistr mewn Mathemateg. Pan ymunais i â Chaerdydd bron i 5 mlynedd yn ôl, roedd gen i wallt ar flaen fy mhen a doeddwn i ddim yn medru tyfu barf... I Ôl-raddedigion: Parhau i sefydlu cymuned myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig/Hŷn gyda digwyddiadau drwy gydol y flwyddyn. Mwy o opsiynau neuaddau preswyl fforddiadwy rhwng Mehefin-Medi. Sicrhau fod pob cyfnod cyflwyno Ôl-raddedigion yn cynnwys gwybodaeth am yr Undeb a Chefnogaeth Myfyrwyr. Ysgogi myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig Ymchwil i ymuno ag Undeb Prifysgol a Choleg (UCU). Mynd ar draws y campws i gwrdd â myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig Ymchwil bob wythnos. Amddiffyn myfyrwyr ôl-raddedig rhag cael eu heffeithio’n anghyfartal gan gynllun ailstrwythuro ac arbed arian, ‘Trawsffurfio Caerdydd’. Nid i Ôl-raddedigion yn unig: Gweithredu adolygiad asiantaethau gosod fel y gall myfyrwyr osgoi'r gwaethaf. Modiwlau sydd wedi optio allan o recordio darlithoedd i ddynodi hynny mewn gwybodaeth modiwlau. Lobio dros fwy o Next Bikes ar draws ardaloedd myfyrwyr. Llawn gefnogi gweithredu ar gyflwyno Swyddog Y Gymraeg a basiwyd yn y CCB ond GWRTHWYNEBU'r awgrym i gyfuno IL Chwaraeon/Cymdeithasau i ariannu hyn. ’Prifysgol Caerdydd: Technoleg ddoe, Yfory.’ Lobio dros well buddsoddiad mewn technoleg. Cysylltu Cefnogaeth Myfyrwyr gyda’r Siopswyddi, yn rhoi blaenoriaeth i rai swyddi i fyfyrwyr sydd yn profi caledi ariannol. Codi £1 ar Fyfyrwyr Prifysgol Met i fynd i YOLO er mwyn ariannu mentrau iechyd. Os ydych chi’n hoffi beth rydych chi’n ei weld, pleidleisiwch Nicholas Fox

ELIZABETH HOWARD Hello! My name’s Elizabeth and I am a final year PhD student from SHARE. As a graduate teaching assistant for four years, I have a clear understanding of the rewards and challenges this role entails. I am passionate about ensuring that all graduates who are in teaching roles are treated fairly. I am also president of the Society for Women Graduates (CUSWG) – the only postgraduate society at the university. But there is more I can do: For Undergraduates: Establish mentorship schemes for students considering postgraduate study. Provide fast-track postgraduate applications for current undergraduates. For Postgraduates: Ensure that all students are offered the same level of support from their supervisors. Provide more support for students in financial difficulties. Increase clarity and consistency in contracts for postgraduates who teach. Lobby for better and fairer working conditions and contracts. Organise more postgraduate events with Give it a Go, Careers and Employability, Skills and Volunteering. Improve postgraduate office and social facilities on all campuses, including Queen’s Buildings and Heath Campus. For Heath Postgraduates: Hold weekly office hours where I will be present and visible on campus. Run more postgraduate focused services and events at the Heath. Contact me on: twitter: @Howard_4_VPPG facebook: www.facebook.com/Howard4VPPG/ Helo! Fy enw i yw Elizabeth ac rydw i yn fyfyriwr PhD SHARE yn fy mlwyddyn olaf. Fel cymhorthydd dysgu graddedig am bedwar blynedd, mae gen i ddealltwriaeth glir o’r buddiannau a sialensiau sy’n ynghlwm â’r rôl. Rydw i’n angerddol am sicrhau fod bob myfyriwr graddedig sydd mewn rôl dysgu yn cael eu trin yn deg. Rydw i hefyd yn Llywydd ar y Gymdeithas i Raddedigion Benywaidd (CUSWG) - yr unig gymdeithas ôl-raddedig yn y brifysgol. Ond mae mwy y gallaf i wneud: I Israddedigion: Sefydlu cynlluniau mentora ar gyfer myfyrwyr sy’n ystyried astudiaethau ôlraddedig. Darparu ceisiadau ôl-raddedig llwybr cyflym i israddedigion presennol. I Ôl-raddedigion: Sicrhau fod bob myfyriwr yn cael cynnig i’r un lefel o gefnogaeth gan eu goruchwylwyr. Darparu mwy o gefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr gydag anawsterau ariannol. Cynyddu eglurdeb a chysondeb mewn cytundebau i ôl-raddedigion sy’n addysgu. Lobio dros amodau gwaith a chytundebau gwell a thecach. Trefnu mwy o ddigwyddiadau ôl-raddedig gyda Rho Gynnig Arni, Gyrfaoedd a Chyflogadwyedd, Sgiliau a Gwirfoddoli. Gwella swyddfa ôl-raddedig a chyfleusterau cymdeithasol ar bob campws, gan gynnwys Adeiladau’r Frenhines a Champws y Mynydd Bychan. I Ôl-raddedigion y Mynydd Bychan: Cynnal oriau swyddfa wythnosol lle byddaf yn bresennol ac yn weladwy ar y campws. Cynnal mwy o wasanaethau yn ffocysu ar wasanaethau a digwyddiadau ôl-raddedig yn y Mynydd Bychan. Cysylltwch â fi ar: trydar: @Howard_4_VPPG facebook: www.facebook.com/Howard4VPPG/

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS IS LYWYDD MYFYRWYR OL-RADDEDIG

MUHAMMAD KHAN

ARSALAN JAWEED LAMBAY

Hello, I’m Muhammad Khan, Masters (Logistics and Operations Management) student running for VP Postgraduate, I have previously experienced as a Class representative in my Masters and also society postgraduate advisor working with the union.

I am Arsalan Lambay, and I am running for VP Postgraduate Student in the upcoming spring elections. I believe I have realistic ideas that deal with the concerns that we as students face during our postgraduate studies. I will work progressively at the union level and beyond to improve the experience of all postgraduate students at the university. Being an international student myself one of my major priorities will be working towards solving the issues of students from different backgrounds and diverse cultures across the world.

If successfully elected, I will; Funding: Get postgraduate bursaries and scholarship support, also increase number of tution fee installments. Career & Employability: Providing career counseling, real world business networking through visits and seminars and in-house job opportunities. Social Activities: Work to increase Postgraduate participation in extra-curricular opportunities; working with clubs and societies to improve Postgraduate representation. PGR: Ensure that PGR receive better pay, support and their relationship with their supervisor. I want to make sure every research student have access to suitable workspace and get extra training for teaching. Library & Study Zones: I would like to extend opening hours and study zone for PG students especially at weekends. Better accessibility to text books including more copies and flexible return dates. Time table & Assessment: Make timetables more compact and having reasonable gaps. Also make sure exam dates and results are released on time Mental Health: Provide better mental health support; providing personal tutor training on mental health to tackle overlooked problem. Helo, Muhammad Khan ydw i, myfyriwr Gradd Meistr (Logisteg a Rheoli Gweithrediadau) yn ymgeisio i fod yn IL Ôl-raddedig. Drwy fod yn gynrychiolydd dosbarth yn fy ngradd meistr a hefyd fel cynghorydd cymdeithas ôl-raddedig mae gen i brofiad blaenorol o weithio gyda’r undeb. Os byddaf yn llwyddiannus yn cael fy ethol, byddaf yn; Ariannu: Cael cefnogaeth bwrsariaethau ôl-raddedig ac ysgoloriaethau, hefyd cynyddu nifer rhandaliadau’r ffioedd dysgu. Gyrfa a Chyflogadwyedd: Darparu cwnsela gyrfaoedd, rhyngweithio gyda busnesau’r byd go iawn drwy ymweliadau a seminarau a chyfleoedd gwaith mewnol. Gweithgareddau Cymdeithasol: Gweithio i gynyddu cyfranogiad Ôl-raddedigion mewn cyfleoedd allgyrsiol; gweithio gyda chlybiau a chymdeithasau i wella cynrychiolaeth Ôl-raddedig. Ôl-raddedig Ymchwil: Sicrhau fod Ôl-raddedigion Ymchwil yn derbyn gwell cyflog, cefnogaeth a pherthynas well gyda’u goruchwyliwr. Rydw i eisiau gwneud yn siŵr fod gan bob myfyriwr ymchwil fynediad at ofod gwaith addas ac yn cael hyfforddiant ychwanegol ar gyfer addysgu. Llyfrgell a Mannau Astudio: Hoffwn roi estyniad ar oriau agor a mannau astudio ar gyfer myfyrwyr ôl-raddedig yn enwedig ar benwythnosau. Gwell hygyrchedd i lyfrau testun yn cynnwys mwy o gopïau a dyddiadau dychwelyd hyblyg. Amserlen ac Asesu: Gwneud amserlenni yn fwy compact a chael bylchau rhesymol. Hefyd sicrhau fod dyddiadau arholiadau a chanlyniadau yn cael eu cyhoeddi ar amser Iechyd Meddwl: Darparu gwell cefnogaeth iechyd meddwl; yn darparu hyfforddiant i diwtoriaid personol ar iechyd meddwl i fynd i’r afael â’r broblem hon sy’n cael ei hesgeuluso.

If elected, I will: Work towards more financial support and improved employment opportunities for masters and PhD students. Increase support for part time students, including those with families and caring responsibilities. Support PhD students who teach to gain proper contracts with rights and pay clarity. Campaign to make postgraduate study more affordable and accessible. Arrange more socials to create a better and more close-knit postgraduate community at our university. Attempt to improve study spaces across campus with more facilities. I am incredibly excited about standing for the position of Vice-President Postgraduate and want to thank you for considering my manifesto. Arsalan Lambay ydw i, ac rydw i’n ymgeisio ar gyfer IL Myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig yn etholiadau’r gwanwyn. Credaf fod gen i syniadau realistig sy’n delio gyda’r pryderon rydyn ni fel myfyrwyr yn eu hwynebu yn ystod ein hastudiaethau ôl-raddedig. Byddaf yn gweithio’n gynyddol ar lefel yr undeb a thu hwnt i wella profiad yr holl fyfyrwyr ôl-raddedig yn y brifysgol. O fod yn fyfyriwr rhyngwladol fy hun un o fy mhrif flaenoriaethau fydd gweithio tuag at ddatrys problemau myfyrwyr o gefndiroedd gwahanol a diwylliannau amrywiol ar draws y byd. Os caf fy ethol, byddaf yn: Gweithio tuag at fwy o gefnogaeth ariannol a gwell cyfleoedd cyflogaeth i fyfyrwyr gradd meistr a PhD. Cynyddu cefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr rhan-amser, gan gynnwys y rheiny â chyfrifoldebau teulu a gofalu. Cefnogi myfyrwyr PhD sy’n addysgu i gael cytundebau gwirioneddol gyda hawliau ac eglurder wrth drafod tâl. Ymgyrchu i wneud astudiaethau ôl-raddedig yn fwy fforddiadwy a hygyrch. Trefnu mwy o ddigwyddiadau cymdeithasol a chreu cymuned ôl-raddedig well a chlòs yn ein prifysgol. Ceisio gwella mannau astudio ar draws y campws gyda mwy o gyfleusterau. Rydw i’n hynod gyffrous ynglŷn ag ymgeisio am y swydd o Is-lywydd Ôl-raddedig ac eisiau diolch i chi am ystyried fy maniffesto. Hello/Shwmae everyone,

VICE PRESIDENT POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD MYFYRWYR OL-RADDEDIG

YASAR MAJIB I am running for the position of VP Postgraduate Students with the confidence that I can play a positive role in making life of students better. I am currently a Academic Rep or MSc ISP and Chair the SSP meeting in COMSC. I have 11-years of work experience after completing my graduation, I have learned a lot of skills in that era. I have been working at a senior management (decision making) position in an organization with more than a thousand people, I have a very good understanding of how decisions impacts life of others (great power comes with great responsibility). I was dealing with very big projects (multi-billion) which have changed the culture of big provinces (more than 100-million population). I will do my best for improving the overall experience of Postgraduates’ life/ study, but will also focus on the following: Teaching opportunities Job sharing culture (one job with multiple part-time students) Lectures' debriefing time/space Social Events for PGs Ideas Sharing Centre where anybody can come and present their idea to get feedback and necessary support Develop a culture where work/life/study balance is maintained Please vote for me because it can't be done without your help. Yasar Majib Shwmae bawb, Rydw i’n ymgeisio am y swydd o IL Myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig yn hyderus y gallaf chwarae rôl gadarnhaol drwy wella bywydau myfyrwyr. Ar hyn o bryd rydw i’n Gynrychiolydd Academaidd neu MSc ISP a Chadeirydd y cyfarfodydd PSM yn COMSC. Mae gen i 11 mlynedd o brofiad gwaith wedi i mi gyflawni fy ngradd, rydw i wedi dysgu llawer o sgiliau yn y cyfnod hwn. Rydw i wedi bod yn gweithio mewn swydd uwch reoli (gwneud penderfyniadau) mewn sefydliad gyda dros fil o bobl, mae gen i ddealltwriaeth dda o sut mae penderfyniadau yn effeithio bywydau eraill (gyda phŵer daw cyfrifoldeb). Roeddwn yn deilio â phrosiectau mawr iawn (gwerth miliynau) sydd wedi newid diwylliant taleithiau mawr iawn (poblogaeth mwy na 100-miliwn). Gwnaf fy ngorau i wella profiad cyffredinol Ôl-raddedigion bywyd/astudio, ond byddaf hefyd yn ffocysu ar y canlynol: Cyfleoedd dysgu Diwylliant rhannu swyddi (un swydd gyda sawl myfyriwr rhan-amser) Amser/ gofod i roi adborth ar ddarlithoedd Digwyddiadau Cymdeithasol i Ôl-raddedigion Canolfan Rhannu Syniadau lle gall unrhyw un ddod a chyflwyno eu syniad i gael adborth a chefnogaeth angenrheidiol. Datblygu diwylliant lle mae bywyd/gwaith/astudio cytbwys yn cael ei gynnal Pleidleisiwch drosof i os gwelwch yn dda, nid yw’n bosib cyflawni hyn heb eich cymorth chi. Yasar Majib I am a part-time LLM student. Since 2018, I have created a new association for

JANET WILLIAMS Carers and Parents and have been active across Cardiff Students Union in many other roles. I am a Postgrad Rep and Chair of the Committee in Law POL. I am also part of the 2018-19 Postgraduate Exec. I was recently elected to the NEC as 2019-20 NUS Part-time Officer. As President of the Housing Action, I helped secure a date for abolishing Agency fees in Wales. Free Teas/Coffees once a week during Summer for all students studying. Continue and expand Master’s Funding Information Events to include similar events for potential PGRS. Create a support network for EU students to ensure continuity and reassurance if Brexit happens. Ensure all International Postgraduates have more support including a sponsored emergency contingency fund. Dedicated drop-in sessions for postgraduates across campuses. Include Integrated Masters students in postgraduate events. More scholarships and bursaries for postgraduates. Improve accessibility to the hardship fund. Improve third floor SU facilities for postgraduates. Explore internship opportunities for postgraduates. Improve Supervision system for PGR’s and Personal tutor system for PGT’s More consistency and support to postgraduate researchers teaching. Continue campaign to grant PGRs who teach employment status. Rydw i’n fyfyriwr LLM rhan-amser. Ers 2018, rydw i wedi creu cymdeithas newydd i Ofalwyr a Rhieni ac wedi bod yn weithredol ar draws Undeb Myfyrwyr Caerdydd a sawl rôl arall. Rydw i’n Gynrychiolydd Ôl-raddedig ac yn Gadeirydd ar y Pwyllgor yn Ysgol y Gyfraith a Gwleidyddiaeth. Rydw i hefyd yn rhan o Bwyllgor Gwaith Ôl-raddedig 2018-19. Yn ddiweddar cefais fy ethol ar gyfer y NEC fel Swyddog Rhan-amser NUS 2019-20. Fel llywydd Gweithredu Tai, fe gynorthwyais i ddiogelu dyddiad ar gyfer diddymu Ffioedd Asiantaeth Gosod yng Nghymru. Te a choffi am ddim unwaith yr wythnos yn ystod yr Haf i bob myfyriwr sy’n astudio. Parhau ac ehangu Digwyddiadau Gwybodaeth am Nawdd Gradd Meistr i gynnwys digwyddiadau tebyg i ddarpar Ôl-raddedigion Ymchwil posibl. Creu rhwydwaith cymorth i fyfyrwyr yr UE i sicrhau cysondeb a sicrwydd os yw Brexit yn digwydd. Sicrhau fod bob myfyriwr Ôl-raddedig Rhyngwladol yn cael mwy o gefnogaeth yn cynnwys cronfa argyfwng wrth gefn wedi ei noddi. Sesiynau taro heibio yn ymroddedig i ôl-raddedigion ar draws y campysau. Cynnwys myfyrwyr Gradd Meistr Integredig mewn digwyddiadau ôl-raddedig. Mwy o ysgoloriaethau a bwrsariaethau i ôl-raddedigion. Gwella hygyrchedd at y Gronfa Caledi. Gwella cyfleusterau i ôl-raddedigion ar drydydd llawr Undeb y Myfyrwyr. Archwilio’r posibiliad o gyfleoedd interniaethau i ôl-raddedigion. Gwella system Goruchwylio ar gyfer Ôl-raddedigion Ymchwil a’r system Tiwtoriaid Personol i Ôl-raddedigion a addysgir. Mwy o gysondeb a chefnogaeth i ymchwilwyr ôl-raddedig sy’n addysgu. Parhau i ymgyrchu i roi statws cyflogaeth i ôl-raddedigion ymchwil sy’n addysgu. Having been president of 2 societies and a representative on the societies exec

PAM PLEIDLEISIO?

“ OHERWYDD DEMOCRATIAETH = PWER I’R BOBL.” ETHOLIADAU’R GWANWYN 2019 PLEIDLEISIO’N AGOR: 09:00 25 CHWEFROR PLEIDLEISIO’N CAU: 17:00 1 MAWRTH

CARDIFFSTUDENTS.COM/VOTE

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES & VOLUNTEERING IS LYWYDD CYMDEITHASAU A GWIRFODDOLI

The VP Societies & Volunteering will champion societies, campaigns and student-led activities within the Union, University, and local community. They are also responsible for allocating budgets to our societies. It will be their role to represent the views of our diverse membership of over 200 affiliated groups and 8000 members. They will help to ensure the Union continues to develop its support for societies and ensure that students as members and leaders have access to high quality opportunities.

Mae’r Is-Lywydd Cymdeithasau a Gwirfoddoli yn hyrwyddo cymdeithasau, ymgyrchoedd a gweithgareddau a arweinir gan fyfyrwyr yn yr Undeb, y Brifysgol a’r gymuned leol. Mae hefyd yn gyfrifol am ddyrannu cyllidebau i’n cymdeithasau. Eu rôl nhw fydd cynrychioli barn ein haelodaeth amrywiol o dros 200 grŵp cyswllt ac 8000 o aelodau. Byddant yn sicrhau bod yr Undeb yn parhau i ddatblygu ei chefnogaeth ar gyfer cymdeithasau a sicrhau bod myfyrwyr fel cyfranogwyr ac arweinwyr yn cael mynediad at gyfleoedd o ansawdd uchel.

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES & VOLUNTEERING IS LYWYDD CYMDEITHASAU A GWIRFODDOLI

NICOLA MORGAN committee, I know all the challenges faced by committees and I'd love to have the opportunity to help make all your societies and volunteering opportunities the best that they can be! I’d rework the tier structure to make sure it’s achievable for societies of all sizes and categories, as well as making committee training online so you can do it in your own time. I also want to petition the university for an easier way to book university rooms (to take pressure off the SU rooms), and want to look into how venues in the SU are used and see if more time can be given to societies in key rooms like Y Plas, Y Stiwdio and Y Stiwdio 2. In addition I'd work to ensure the Centre for Student Life works for societies when it's built. Finally, I’d increase visits to the Heath Campus as well as working one evening a week for students who may be on placement 9-5. I'd work with officers representing Postgraduates, Heath students, BME minority students and disabled students to make sure societies are open to all. O fod yn llywydd 2 gymdeithas ac yn gynrychiolydd ar bwyllgor gwaith y cymdeithasau, rydw i’n ymwybodol o’r holl heriau y mae cymdeithasau yn eu hwynebu ac fe garwn gael y cyfle i helpu gwneud bob un o’ch cymdeithasau a chyfleoedd gwirfoddoli'r gorau posibl! Byddaf yn ailwampio’r strwythur haen i wneud yn siŵr ei fod yn gyraeddadwy i gymdeithasau o bob maint a chategori, yn ogystal â gwneud hyfforddiant pwyllgor ar-lein fel y gallwch ei wneud yn eich amser eich hunain. Rydw i hefyd eisiau deisyfu’r brifysgol am hwyluso’r ffordd o archebu ystafelloedd y brifysgol (lleihau’r baich ar ystafelloedd yr Undeb), ac eisiau archwilio sut mae lleoliadau yn yr Undeb yn cael eu defnyddio a gweld os gall mwy o amser gael ei roi i gymdeithasau yn y prif ystafelloedd megis Y Plas, Y Stiwdio a'r Stiwdio 2. Yn ogystal byddaf yn gweithio i sicrhau y bydd Canolfan Bywyd y Myfyrwyr yn gweithio ar gyfer cymdeithasau pan gaiff ei adeiladu. Yn olaf, byddaf yn cynyddu ymweliadau i’r Mynydd Bychan yn ogystal â gweithio un noson yr wythnos i fyfyrwyr a all od ar leoliad rhwng 9-5. Byddaf yn gweithio gyda’r swyddogion a fydd yn cynrychioli Ôl-raddedigion, myfyrwyr y Mynydd Bychan, myfyrwyr lleiafrifoedd BME a myfyrwyr anabl i wneud yn siŵr fod cymdeithasau yn agored i bawb. Hey everyone! I’m Hannah and this is why I’m running for VP Societies and

HANNAH SCHOLES Volunteering. As the president of the Medieval Re-enactment Society, I know how hard running a society can be, but I also know how great being a part of a society is. YOUR union works for YOU. Societies and Volunteering is fantastic at CUSU, but I can make it even better. There are over 200 UNIQUE societies and each one has their own needs and they all work slightly differently. It’s that diversity that makes CUSU amazing. In my spare time I volunteer with a local Scout group and this year I’m also helping with Nerd Varsity. This is what I aim to do: Refine and condense paperwork to make it clearer, easier and more usable. Explore options for additional storage facilities. Make it possible for societies to collaborate easily with societies from other universities. Support societies in working with academic courses. Relaunch the refreshers fair in the Spring semester and bring back wristbands for people on the stalls. Expand links between societies and volunteering opportunities. Recognise all the hard work volunteers put in. Want to know more? Come have a chat or drop me an Email. Helo bawb! Hannah ydw i a dyma pam rydw i’n ymgeisio i fod yn IL Cymdeithasau a Gwirfoddoli. Fel llywydd y Gymdeithas Ailddeddfiad Canoloesol, rydw i’n gwybod pa mor anodd y gall redeg cymdeithas fod, ond rydw i hefyd yn gwybod pa mor wych yw bod yn rhan o gymdeithas. Mae EICH undeb yn gweithio ar eich cyfer CHI. Mae Cymdeithasau a Gwirfoddoli yn ffantastig yn UMPC, ond gallaf i ei wneud yn well fyth. Mae dros 200 o gymdeithasau UNIGRYW ac mae gan fod un ei hanghenion ei hun ac maent oll yn gweithio mewn ffyrdd gwahanol. Amrywiaeth sy’n gwneud UMPC mor anhygoel. Yn fy amser rhydd rydw i’n gwirfoddoli gyda grŵp Scout lleol ac eleni rydw i hefyd yn helpu gyda’r Farsiti Amgen. Dyma rydw i’n anelu at wneud: Ailddiffinio a chywasgu gwaith papur i’w wneud yn gliriach, yn haws ac yn haws ei ddefnyddio. Archwilio opsiynau ar gyfer cyfleusterau storio ychwanegol. Hwyluso’r cyfle i gymdeithasau gydweithio gyda chymdeithasau o brifysgolion eraill. Cefnogi cymdeithasau mewn gweithio â chyrsiau academaidd. Ail lansio ffair y glas yn nhymor y Gwanwyn ac ail gyflwyno strapiau arddwrn i bobl ar y stondinau. Ehangu cysylltiadau rhwng cymdeithasau a chyfleoedd gwirfoddoli. Cydnabod yr holl waith caled mae gwirfoddolwyr yn ei wneud. Eisiau gwybod mwy? Dewch i gael sgwrs neu anfonwch E-bost ataf.

VICE PRESIDENT SOCIETIES & VOLUNTEERING

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD CYMDEITHASAU A GWIRFODDOLI

ORLA TARN

EMILY WILLISCROFT

As your current Mental Health Officer, I care deeply about our societies and volunteering projects – I have not only seen the positive effect they have on student wellbeing, but have also experienced them first-hand. In my time at Cardiff, I have taken part in twelve different societies and four different Volunteering projects (and the Societies Exec!), all of which have made me the person I am today. I’d like to make societies and volunteering the best they can possibly be, so they continue to hugely impact on the Student Experience.

Hi! I'm Emily, a third year student eager to improve your student experience. As both an SU Volunteer and a member of societies such as Act One, I’ve learnt amazing skills and made lifelong friends. Now I’d love to help every student to have these opportunities by becoming your VP Societies and Volunteering!

My ideas are: University Level: Further development of the REFRESHERS’ Period Trialling low-cost TRANSPORT for commuting between halls and activities

1) To work more closely with all societies on a personal level to bring about the changes YOU want to see, as well as working to get more people involved in our universities 200+ societies.

Improving Accessibility: SIX MONTH memberships for placement/exchange students Introducing WELLBEING OFFICERS as tier structure requirement Optimising Societies and Volunteering FAYRES, facilitating EASY ACCESS to STALLHOLDERS

2) Supporting the growth of the Volunteering branch within the SU. By bringing all aspects of volunteering under this branch, students will be able to more easily set up and take part in volunteering programs they are passionate about.

Encouraging Growth: Introducing a ‘VOLUNTEER OF THE WEEK’ scheme Restructuring the ROOM BOOKING system to include Heath and University rooms Holding a weekly DROP-IN for committees/students wanting to start new societies/ projects Creating SPONSORSHIP LISTINGS on the SU website for Societies and studentrun projects Hosting society category FORUMS for committees Want to know more? Find my extended manifesto on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orla.tarn Thank you – please VOTE! Fel eich Swyddog Iechyd Meddwl presennol, mae ein cymdeithasau a phrosiectau gwirfoddoli yn bwysig iawn i mi - nid yn unig ydw i wedi gweld yr effaith gadarnhaol y maent yn ei gael ar les myfyrwyr, ond hefyd wedi eu profi yn bersonol. Yn ystod fy amser yng Nghaerdydd, rydw i wedi cymryd rhan mewn deuddeg gwahanol gymdeithas a phedwar prosiect Gwirfoddoli gwahanol (a Phwyllgor Gwaith y Cymdeithasau!), maent oll wedi fy siapio i fel person. Hoffwn wneud cymdeithasau a gwirfoddoli'r gorau posibl, fel eu bod yn parhau i gael dylanwad mawr ar y Profiad Myfyriwr. Fy syniadau i yw: Lefel Prifysgol: Datblygiad pellach o gyfnod Ail Wythnos y Glas Treialu TRAFNIDIAETH cost isel ar gyfer cymudo rhwng neuaddau preswyl a gweithgareddau Gwella Hygyrchedd: Aelodaeth CHWE MIS ar gyfer myfyrwyr ar leoliad/myfyrwyr cyfnewid. Cyflwyno SWYDDOGION LLES fel un o ofynion y strwythur haen Gwneud y mwyaf o FFEIRIAU Cymdeithasau a Gwirfoddoli, hwyluso MYNEDIAD i STONDINWYR Annog Twf: Cyflwyno cynllun ‘GWIRFODDOLWR YR WYTHNOS’ Ailstrwythuro'r system ARCHEBU YSTAFELLOEDD i gynnwys ystafelloedd Y Mynydd Bychan a’r Brifysgol Cynnal sesiynau GALW HEIBIO wythnosol ar gyfer pwyllgorau/myfyrwyr sydd eisiau dechrau cymdeithasau/prosiectau newydd Creu RHESTRAU NAWDD ar wefan yr Undeb ar gyfer cymdeithasau a phrosiectau a redir gan fyfyrwyr Cynnal FFORYMAU wedi ei chategoreiddio ar gyfer pwyllgorau cymdeithasau Eisiau gwybod mwy? Dewch o hyd i fy maniffesto estynedig ar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orla.tarn Diolch - PLEIDLEISIWCH os gwelwch yn dda!

So, what’s the plan?

3) Make the Fresher’s Fair easier to navigate for both Students and Society members running the stalls. 4) Create more awareness for societies and volunteering through improved publicity and by better connecting the Academic Schools to the SU. University isn’t just about your degree; it is about making friends and doing something you're passionate about. So #SpiceUpSocieties and vote for me to make the changes you want to see! Haia! Emily ydw i, myfyriwr trydedd flwyddyn yn awyddus i wella eich profiad myfyriwr. Fel Gwirfoddolwr yn yr Undeb ac aelod o gymdeithasau megis Act One, rydw i wedi dysgu sgiliau anhygoel a gwneud ffrindiau gydol oes. Fe garwn i helpu pob myfyriwr i gael y cyfleoedd hyn drwy fod yn IL Cymdeithasau a Gwirfoddoli i chi! Felly, beth yw’r cynllun? 1) I weithio yn fwy agos gyda’r holl gymdeithasau ar lefel bersonol i gyflwyno’r newidiadau rydych CHI eisiau eu gweld, yn ogystal â gweithio i gael mwy o bobl i gymryd rhan yn un o’r 200+ cymdeithas yn ein prifysgol. 2) Cefnogi twf y gangen Gwirfoddoli o fewn yr Undeb. Bydd dod â phob agwedd o wirfoddoli o dan y gangen hon, yn ei gwneud hi’n haws i fyfyrwyr sefydlu a chymryd rhan mewn rhaglenni gwirfoddoli y maent yn angerddol amdanynt. 3) Gwneud Ffair y Glas yn haws ei dramwyo i Fyfyrwyr ac aelodau’r Cymdeithasau yn rhedeg y stondinau. 4)Creu mwy o ymwybyddiaeth am gymdeithasau a gwirfoddoli drwy well cyhoeddusrwydd a drwy wneud gwell cyswllt rhwng yr Ysgolion Academaidd a’r Undeb. Nid yw’r brifysgol am eich gradd yn unig; mae hefyd yn gyfle i wneud ffrindiau a gwneud rhywbeth rydych chi’n angerddol amdano. Felly #SpiceUpSocieties pleidleisiwch drosof fi i wneud y gwahaniaeth hoffwch ei weld!

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT SPORTS & AU PRESIDENT IS LYWYDD CHWARAOEN A LLYWYDD YR UNDEB ATHLETAIDD

The Vice President Sports and AU President champions sport within the Union, University, and local community. It’s their role to represent students who play both competitive and participation sports to both the University and the Union. They are also the key liaison Sabbatical Trustee with the University Sports Department, as well as working with the student-led sports clubs to assist them in their development. Essentially, the VP Sports is here to promote health and fitness and to inspire more students to play sport at Cardiff University.

Mae’r Is Lywydd Chwaraoen A Llywydd Yr Undeb Athletaidd yn hyrwyddo chwaraeon o fewn yr Undeb, y Brifysgol a’r gymuned leol. Ei rôl yw cynrychioli myfyrwyr sy’n cymryd rhan mewn chwaraeon cystadleuol a chyfranogol i’r Brifysgol a’r Undeb. Yr unigolyn hwn hefyd yw’r Swyddog cyswllt allweddol ag Adran Chwaraeon y Brifysgol, ac mae’n gweithio gyda’r clybiau chwaraeon a arweinir gan fyfyrwyr i’w helpu i ddatblygu. Diben yr Is Lywydd Chwaraeon yw hybu iechyd a ffitrwydd ac ysbrydoli rhagor o fyfyrwyr i gymryd rhan mewn chwaraeon ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd.

VICE PRESIDENT SPORTS & AU PRESIDENT

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD CHWARAOEN A LLYWYDD YR UNDEB ATHLETAIDD

JACOB LLOYD

SHABAN NADEEM

Jake a difference! Vote Jacob Lloyd for VP Sports.

Shaban for VP Sports.

Through my work as a student senator, SU volunteer, and wellbeing champion, I have a thorough appreciation of our student community’s vital needs. As the president of one of the university’s fastest-growing clubs – Ultimate Frisbee – I have become familiar with the workings of the Athletic Union and its relationships with societies of all sizes.

Sporting commitments have long occupied my time at the University. Participation in different sporting activities has always wanted me to improve student experience where a lack of facilities and equipment tend to inhibit sportsmen’s ability to outperform. As Paksoc Sports Director, I have continually worked towards increasing sporting events which has helped bring into light the hidden talent. Your vote would enable the provision of my services throughout Cardiff University.

Aside from this position’s chief priorities – namely lobbying the university for improved facilities – I am especially passionate about: Improving and celebrating gender and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. I believe that everyone should be able to benefit from sport in Cardiff. To reflect our incredibly diverse student body, I hope to fully integrate often marginalised groups into the world of sport. Promoting school outreach and charity work for our sports clubs. I would love to help more clubs do great work in the community, be it coaching local school teams or raising money for charity. Encouraging participation for students who have not previously engaged in sports. Postgraduate or first year, elite athlete or complete beginner, I want to help every Cardiff student see that being involved in sport can make an incredible difference to your university experience.

I will work to ensure: 1. Free facilities: Students should be allowed to access sporting facilities free of cost, and availability for enrolled students be prioritised over external hires. 2. Free Wednesdays - For students who still have academic schedules after 1 pm as most BUCS games and other sports take place on the day. 3. Sports scholarships – To ensure that the University attracts the best talent. 4. Increased access – Ensuring that AU provides access to Swimming pools, Astro-turfs and more 3g pitches as per student demand. 5. Networking – Of AU with professional clubs and creating international opportunities. 6. Increased timings – For the sports facilities that close early on weekends. I will endeavour to ensure that the current University strategy is consistent with this non-exhaustive list.

Gwnewch wahaniaeth! Pleidleisiwch dros Jacob Lloyd ar gyfer IL Chwaraeon.

Shaban ar gyfer IL Chwaraeon.

Drwy fy ngwaith fel seneddwr myfyrwyr, gwirfoddolwr yn yr Undeb, a hyrwyddwr lles, mae gen i werthfawrogiad trylwyr o anghenion hanfodol ein cymuned o fyfyrwyr. Fel llywydd un o glybiau sy’n tyfu cyflymaf yn y brifysgol - Frisbee Eithafol - rydw i wedi dod yn gyfarwydd gyda’r ffordd y mae’r Undeb Athletaidd yn gweithredu a’i berthynas gyda chymdeithasau o bob maint.

Mae ymrwymiad at chwaraeon llenwi fy amser yn y Brifysgol ers amser hir. Mae cymryd rhan mewn gwahanol weithgareddau chwaraeon wastad wedi gwneud i mi eisiau gwella profiad y myfyriwr pan mae diffyg cyfleusterau ac offer yn tueddu i gyfyngu ar allu chwaraewyr i berfformio’n well. Fel Cyfarwyddwr Chwaraeon Paksoc, rydw i wedi gweithio yn barhaol tuag at gynyddu digwyddiadau chwaraeon sydd wedi helpu i ddatguddio talentau cudd. Bydd eich pleidlais yn galluogi darpariaeth fy ngwasanaethau ar draws Prifysgol Caerdydd.

Ar wahân i’r prif flaenoriaethau'r swydd hon - yn bennaf lobio’r brifysgol ar gyfer cyfleusterau gwell - rydw i’n enwedig yn angerddol ynglŷn â: Gwella a dathlu cynwysoldeb rhywedd a LGBTQ+ Rydw i’n credu y dylai pawb allu buddio o chwaraeon yng Nghaerdydd. I adlewyrchu ein corff myfyrwyr hynod amrywiol, rydw i’n gobeithio i integreiddio’n llawn grwpiau sy’n aml ar y cyrion i mewn i fyd chwaraeon. Hyrwyddo ymestyn allan at ysgolion a gwaith elusennol ymysg ein clybiau chwaraeon. Fe garwn helpu mwy o glybiau i wneud gwaith gwych yn y gymuned, boed hynny’n hyfforddi timau ysgolion lleol neu godi arian i elusen. Annog cyfranogaeth myfyrwyr nad ydynt wedi ymgymryd â chwaraeon yn y gorffennol. Myfyriwr Ôl-raddedig neu fyfyriwr blwyddyn gyntaf, athletwr o fri neu ddechreuwyr, rydw i eisiau helpu bob myfyriwr yng Nghaerdydd i ddeall fod bod yn rhan o chwaraeon yn medru gwneud gwahaniaeth anhygoel i’ch profiad yn y brifysgol.

Byddaf yn gweithio i sicrhau: 1. Cyfleusterau am ddim: Dylai myfyrwyr gael mynediad at gyfleusterau chwaraeon heb orfod talu, a dylai argaeledd i fyfyrwyr cofrestredig gael blaenoriaeth dros logi allanol. 2. Dyddiau Mercher Rhydd - I fyfyrwyr sydd yn parhau i gael amserlen academaidd llawn wedi 1yh, gan fod y mwyafrif o gemau BUCS a chwaraeon eraill yn cael eu cynnal yr un diwrnod. 3. Ysgoloriaethau chwaraeon - I sicrhau fod y brifysgol yn denu'r talentau gorau. 4. Cynnydd mewn mynediad - Sicrhau fod yr UA yn darparu mynediad i byllau Nofio, caeau-astro mwy o gaeau 3g yn ddibynnol ar alw myfyrwyr. 5. Rhwydweithio -rhwng yr UA a chlybiau proffesiynol a chreu cyfleoedd rhyngwladol. 6. Cynyddu amserau- ar gyfer y cyfleusterau chwaraeon sy’n cau yn fuan ar benwythnosau. Byddaf yn ymdrechu i sicrhau fod strategaeth bresennol y Brifysgol yn gyson gyda’r rhestr nad yw’n gyflawn hon.

VICE PRESIDENT SPORTS & AU PRESIDENT

MANIFESTO 2019

IS LYWYDD CHWARAOEN A LLYWYDD YR UNDEB ATHLETAIDD

JUDE PICKETT Hey I’m Jude! I am running to be your VP Sport and Athletic Union President. I believe that, whether an elite athlete, recreational player or social member, being part of one of the 67 sports clubs at Cardiff Uni will enhance and transform your university experience. Therefore, I am dedicated to providing the best AU for you! Vote #HEYJUDE and I will Ensure free Student Union entry for AU members on Wednesday evenings Increase transparency and fairness of AU budget allocation Continuously lobby the university for improved and more sports facilities Promote social membership in all clubs Improve IMG and expand ‘Give it a Go’ schemes Promote spectating for important fixtures using advertisement across campus Improve transport for away supporters Reduce gym payment for AU members Link student physios/ sports massage students with players Increase effective communication between sports teams and the AU Create varsity competitions for lower level teams. As the current president of the Ladies' Hockey club, I have the knowledge and experience to know exactly what is required from the AU to make improvements for all. It would be rude not to vote for Jude! Helo Jude ydw i! Rydw i’n ymgeisio i fod yn IL Chwaraeon a Llywydd yr Undeb Athletaidd. Rydw i’n credu, boed eich bod chi’n athletwr o fri, chwaraewr hamdden neu aelod cymdeithasol, bydd bod yn rhan o un o’r 67 o glybiau chwaraeon ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd yn trawsnewid eich profiad prifysgol. Felly, rydw i’n benderfynol o ddarparu'r UA gorau i chi! #PleidleisiwchJude ac fe fyddaf yn: Sicrhau mynediad am ddim i Undeb y Myfyrwyr i aelodau o’r UA ar nosweithiau Mercher Cynyddu tryloywder a thegwch wrth ddyrannu cyllid yr UA Lobio’r Brifysgol yn barhaol i gael gwell a mwy o gyfleusterau chwaraeon Hyrwyddo aelodaeth gymdeithasol ym mhob clwb Gwella IMG ac ehangu cynlluniau ‘Rho Gynnig Arni’ Hyrwyddo gwylio chwaraeon ar gyfer gemau pwysig gan hysbysu ar draws y campws Gwella trafnidiaeth i gefnogwyr oddi cartref Lleihau taliadau campfa ar gyfer aelodau'r UA Rhoi myfyrwyr ffysio/ myfyrwyr tylino chwaraeon mewn cysylltiad gyda chwaraewyr Cynyddu’r cyfathrebu effeithiol rhwng timau chwaraeon a’r UA Creu cystadlaethau Farsiti i dimau lefel is. Fel llywydd presennol y clwb Hoci Menywod, mae gen i’r wybodaeth a’r profiad i wybod yn union beth sydd ei angen gan yr UA i wneud gwelliannau i bawb. Pleidleisiwch Jude!

ELLA WATSON Umbrella Ella has got your AU covered! Ever since I was young, sport has been a massive part of my life from cross country running, to becoming the current president and women’s team captain of the Cardiff Uni Volleyball Club. Playing sports to a national level as well as recreationally has given me a well-rounded view of the requirements for Cardiff sports, and I’ve got the leadership experience to help the AU continue to thrive. As your AU president, I would strive to boost Cardiff Sport, through championing: #Physioforall Continue the process started by current AU president to provide free physio for all sports teams to maximising athlete performance whilst allowing physio students to gain their required practice hours. Improve the ‘sports for all’ campaign and imporve communication between AU and Cardiff Uni Sport. Lobbying to increase funding to improve accessibility in sports ie sitting volleyball, wheelchair rugby programs. Implement a focus on mental health in sports. Interclub awareness and increased social media presence. Introduce results shout-outs for sports teams at YOLO on Wednesday nights after BUCS games, and start a weekly results newsletter increasing inter-sport awareness. VOTE UMBRELLA ELLA FOR YOUR AU FELLA #AUPresidElla #lashylimbsforthewins #umbrellaellaforyourAUfella Mae gan El Ymbarél eich UA dan reolaeth! Ers i mi fod yn ifanc, mae chwaraeon wedi bod yn rhan fawr o fy mywyd o redeg traws gwlad, i fod yn Llywydd a chapten presennol ar dîm menywod Clwb Pêl-foli Prifysgol Caerdydd. Mae chwarae chwaraeon ar lefel genedlaethol yn ogystal ag yn hamddenol wedi rhoi golwg cyflawn o ofynion sydd eu hangen ar gyfer chwaraeon Caerdydd i mi, ac mae gen i’r profiad o arweinyddiaeth i helpu’r UA i barhau i ffynnu. Fel eich Llywydd yr AU, byddaf yn ymdrechu i hybu Chwaraeon Caerdydd, drwy hyrwyddo; #FfysioIBawb Parhau gyda’r broses a ddechreuwyd gan y Llywydd yr UA presennol i ddarparu ffysio am ddim i bob tîm chwaraeon i gynyddu perfformiad athletwyr wrth ganiatáu i fyfyrwyr ffysio ennill oriau ymarfer angenrheidiol. Gwella’r ymgyrch ‘chwaraeon i bawb’ a gwella cyfathrebu rhwng yr UA a Chwaraeon Prifysgol Caerdydd. Lobio i gynyddu cyllid i wella hygyrchedd mewn chwaraeon h.y. rhaglenni pêlfoli wrth eistedd, rygbi cadair olwyn. Rhoi pwyslais ar iechyd meddwl o fewn chwaraeon. Ymwybyddiaeth rhwng clybiau a chynyddu presenoldeb ar y cyfryngau cymdeithasol. Cyflwyno cyhoeddi canlyniadau ar gyfer timau chwaraeon yn YOLO ar nosweithiau Mercher wedi gemau BUCS, a dechrau cylchlythyr canlyniadau wythnosol yn cynyddu ymwybyddiaeth rhwng chwaraeon. PLEIDLEISIWCH ELLA FEL EICH LLYWYDD UA #EllaLlywyddYrUA #PleidleisiwchElla

PAY EVERY STUDENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; TUITION FEES? A BIT AMBITIOUS MAYBE... STAND AGAINST RISES IN TUITION FEES? THAT SEEMS REASONABLE... STUDENT SENATE

Got a great idea to improve your Union?

visit cardiffstudents.com/ideas

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE & CAMPAIGNS IS LYWYDD LLES AC YMGYRCHOEDD

The VP Welfare & Campaigns represents your welfare needs to the University and strengthens links with key welfare service providers in the local community. The VP Welfare & Campaigns will work to improve support services in both the Union and University and will campaign on any welfare issues facing our student population.

Mae’r Is Lywydd Lles Ac Ymgyrchoedd yn cynrychioli eich anghenion lles i’r Brifysgol ac yn atgyfnerthu cysylltiadau â’n darparwyr gwasanaethau lles allweddol yn y gymuned leol. Bydd yr Is Lywydd Lles Ac Ymgyrchoedd yn gweithio i wella gwasanaethau cymorth yn yr Undeb a’r Brifysgol a bydd yn ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion lles sy’n wynebu ein myfyrwyr.

VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE & CAMPAIGNS IS LYWYDD LLES AC YMGYRCHOEDD

ELLEN FERGUSON Hey, my name is Ellen Ferguson. I’m currently in my third year studying Media and Communications in JOMEC and I’m running for VP Welfare & Campaigns. I would use my own experiences of the current mental health and welfare services provided by the university to bring about positive changes to the current system to make sure it is even more accessible and continues to bring support to students. Policies: Have late night and weekend opening hours for mental health and wellbeing drop in sessions to bring further access to students as mental health isn’t 9 to 5. Run and organise mental health/wellbeing fun days at the students union with fun activities that all students can take part in for a rest bite from studies and to have personal time. Get more student campaigns and events arranged for causes that are of interest to a variety of students. I am passionate and caring and want to help and get involved with improving the Cardiff student experience. Please vote for me as ‘you’ve got a friend in me’ and I want all students to believe that ‘you’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think’. Hei, fy enw i yw Ellen Ferguson. Rydw i yn fy nhrydedd blwyddyn yn astudio Cyfryngau a Chyfathrebu yn JOMEC ac rydw i’n ymgeisio am IL Lles ac Ymgyrchoedd. Byddwn yn defnyddio fy mhrofiadau personol o’r gwasanaethau iechyd meddwl a lles presennol a ddarperir gan y brifysgol i gyflwyno newidiadau cadarnhaol i’r system bresennol i wneud yn siŵr ei fod yn hyd yn oed fwy hygyrch ac yn parhau i ddod â chefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr. Polisïau: Cael oriau agor gyda’r nos ac ar benwythnosau ar gyfer sesiynau galw heibio ar gyfer iechyd meddwl a lles i roi mwy o fynediad i fyfyrwyr gan nad yw iechyd meddwl yn 9 tan 5. Cynnal a threfnu diwrnodau iechyd meddwl/lles hwyl yn undeb y myfyrwyr gyda gweithgareddau hwyl y gall bob myfyriwr gymryd rhan ynddo i gal hoe oddi wrth astudiaethau a chael amser personol. Cael mwy o ymgyrchoedd myfyrwyr a digwyddiadau wedi eu trefnu i achosion sydd o ddiddordeb i amrywiaeth o fyfyrwyr. Rydw i’n angerddol ac yn ofalgar ac eisiau helpu a chyfrannu at wella profiad myfyriwr yng Nghaerdydd. Pleidleisiwch drosof i gan gennych chi ffrind ynof i ac rydw i eisiau i bob myfyriwr gredu eich bod chi’n ddewrach nag ydych chi’n gredu, cryfach nac ydych chi’n ymddangos, ac yn fwy clyfar nag ydych chi’n ei feddwl.

DANIEL LAVORCHIK NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

MANIFESTO 2019

VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE & CAMPAIGNS IS LYWYDD LLES AC YMGYRCHOEDD

CAM ROSE Hi! I’m Cam Rose. I am a 3rd-year Physics student, current President of Amnesty International Society, committee member for Feminist Society and former student senator. For 5 years, I’ve been active in campaigning for marginalised people. I will transform our union into a force that can protect and fight for all students. These are my main policies: Create a consistent policy for extenuating circumstances Stop student deportations Set up SU hate crime/sexual harassment reporting centre Stop letting agencies from pressure selling Demand the protection of EU students’ rights post-Brexit Expand revision aid during exams: free refreshments and panic rooms in library/ study spaces Establish food donation spots at SU for students in need Create ethical and green investment policy Represent ALL genders on student records and cards Set up free termly smear tests Provide specialist counsellors for BME and LGBT+ students Improve personal tutor system Create ‘Student Carers Passports’ Support implementation of full-time Welsh language officer Ensure a friendly campus for students with disabilities More multi-faith prayer rooms Ensure better support for campaign officers and student led services Protection for students involved in sex work Create mental health strategy for all students addressing minorities and intersectionality #OurStudents #OurRights #OurUnion Haia! Cam Rose ydw i. Rydw i’n fyfyriwr Ffiseg 3ydd blwyddyn, Llywydd presennol Cymdeithas Amnest Rhyngwladol, aelod pwyllgor yn y Gymdeithas Ffeministiaid a chyn-seneddwr myfyrwyr. Am 5 mlynedd, rydw i wedi bod yn weithredol yn ymgyrchu dros bobl sydd ar y cyrion. Byddaf yn trawsnewid eich undeb i mewn i rym a fydd yn gallu amddiffyn a brwydro dros bob myfyriwr. Rhain yw fy mhrif bolisïau: Creu polisi cyson ar gyfer amgylchiadau esgusodol Atal allgludo myfyrwyr Sefydlu canolfan adrodd troseddau casineb/aflonyddu rhywiol i’r undeb Atal asiantaethau gosod rhag rhoi pwysau ar fyfyrwyr i brynu tai Mynnu amddiffyn hawliau myfyrwyr yr UE wedi Brexit Ehangu Cymorth Adolygu yn ystod arholiadau: lluniaeth am ddim ac ystafelloedd cynhyrfu mewn llyfrgelloedd/mannau astudio Sefydlu mannau rhoddi bwyd yn yr Undeb i fyfyrwyr mewn angen Creu polisi buddsoddi moesegol a gwyrdd Cynrychioli POB rhyw ar gofnodion a chardiau myfyrwyr Sefydlu profion ceg y groth am ddim bob tymor Darparu cynghorwyr arbenigol i fyfyrwyr BME a LHDT+ Gwella’r system tiwtoriaid personol Creu ‘Pasbortau Myfyrwyr sy’n Ofalwyr’ Cefnogi’r gweithrediad o gyflwyno Swyddog y Gymraeg llawn amser Sicrhau campws cyfeillgar i fyfyrwyr gydag anableddau Mwy o ystafelloedd gweddïo aml-ffydd Sicrhau gwell cefnogaeth i swyddogion ymgyrch a gwasanaethau dan arweiniad myfyrwyr Amddiffyn myfyrwyr sy’n ymwneud a gwaith rhyw Creu strategaeth iechyd meddwl i’r holl fyfyrwyr yn cyfeirio at leiafrifoedd a chroestoriadaeth #EinMyfyrwyr #EinHawliau #EinHundeb

HANNAH RYAN My name is Hannah Ryan and I am running to be your next VP Welfare and Campaigns! Here, I have included the campaigns most important to me – as there are not enough words avaliable to cover every idea! If elected I would like to provide anonymous drug advice and perhaps drug safety testing kits, to ensure student safety whilst remaining realistic about drug use amongst the student population. Another of my major aims is to promote the correlation between physical wellbeing and improvements in mental health, and I would like to achieve this through collaborating with VP Sports to create a more comfortable environment within sporting teams - to help reduce the anxiety that students may feel towards joining these clubs. This year, as LGBT+ Women's Officer, I organised a campaign dedicated to raising awareness of the correlation between mental health difficulties and identifying as LGBT+, and collaborated with Student Support to help provide specific support for marginalised students. This is the kind of work that I would endeavour to continue in the Students’ Union, by running future campaigns for various marginalised groups, such as BAME and international students - to increase targeted support for them. Fy enw i yw Hannah Ryan ac rydw i’n ymgeisio dros fod yn IL Lles ac Ymgyrchoedd nesaf! Yma, rydw i wedi cynnwys yr ymgyrchoedd sydd bwysicaf i mi - gan nad oes digon o eiriau i drafod bob syniad! Os caf fy ethol hoffwn ddarparu cyngor anhysbys ar gyffuriau ac efallai offer profi diogelwch cyffuriau, i sicrhau diogelwch myfyrwyr wrth barhau i fod yn realistig ynglŷn â defnydd cyffuriau ymysg poblogaeth y myfyrwyr. Un arall o fy mhrif amcanion yw hyrwyddo’r gydberthynas rhwng lles corfforol a gwelliannau mewn iechyd meddwl, a hoffwn lwyddo hyn drwy gydweithio gyda IL Chwaraeon i greu amgylchedd mwy cyfforddus o fewn timau chwaraeon - i helpu lleihau’r pryder y gall fyfyrwyr ei deimlo ynghylch ymuno â’r clybiau hyn. Eleni fel Swyddog LHDT+ Merched, fe wnes i sefydlu ymgyrch wedi ei ymrwymo i godi ymwybyddiaeth am y berthynas rhwng anawsterau iechyd meddwl a phobl sy’n ystyried eu hunain yn LHDT+, ac wedi cydweithio gyda Chefnogaeth i Fyfyrwyr i helpu darparu cefnogaeth benodol ar gyfer myfyrwyr sydd ar y cyrion. Dyma’r math o waith y byddwn i’n ymdrechu i barhau yn Undeb y Myfyrwyr, gan redeg ymgyrchoedd ar gyfer amryw o grwpiau ar y cyrion yn y dyfodol, megis myfyrwyr BME a myfyrwyr rhyngwladol - i gynyddu cefnogaeth wedi ei dargedu ar eu cyfer.

VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE & CAMPAIGNS IS LYWYDD LLES AC YMGYRCHOEDD

JAMES WAREHAM Siwmae pawb! As a second-year, I understand the welfare problems we face as students and I don’t think you’re being represented. I won't let that happen any longer - #WarehamForWelfare means #RepresentationForAll Why you should elect me: TEAM LEADER and Social Media Coordinator for Student Advice and Welfare SECRETARY of the mental health group Mind Your Head HUGE EXPERIENCE in campaigning for mental health (the famous #alrightmate campaign), better housing (agency fees banned!) and YOUR voice 100+ HOURS spent volunteering for YOUR wellbeing WELLBEING CHAMPION, effective bystander and suicide prevention trained What I’ll do with your vote: OVERHAUL the personal tutor/supervisor system to make it consistent, effective and supportive INTRODUCE a therapy animal for student support MAKE dyslexia tests FREE REPRESENT and LISTEN to you through open office hours and demographicspecific consultations BE PRESENT weekly in the Heath CONNECT the University and Student Support to improve wait times and referral systems FIGHT FOR communications and access to wellbeing services yn Gymraeg PRODUCE a welcome guide for international students and improve integration by working with Residence Life LOBBY the University to improve disabled access across campus To see more, ask questions and read my extended manifesto, search #WarehamForWelfare on Facebook Shwmae bawb! Fel myfyriwr blwyddyn dau, rydw i’n deall y problemau lles rydyn ni fel myfyrwyr yn eu hwynebu a dydw i ddim yn credu eich bod chi’n cael eich cynrychioli. Ni fyddaf yn caniatáu i hyn barhau ddim mwy - Mae #WarehamDrosLes yn golygu #CynrychiolaethIBawb Pam y dylech bleidleisio amdanaf i: ARWEINYDD TÎM a Chydlynydd Cyfryngau Cymdeithasol ar gyfer Cyngor i Fyfyrwyr a Lles YSGRIFENNYDD y grŵp iechyd meddwl Gofalu am eich Pen LLWYTH O BROFIAD mewn ymgyrchu dros iechyd meddwl (yr enwog ymgyrch #iawnmêt), gwell gweithredu tai (ffioedd asiantaeth wedi eu gwahardd!) ac EICH llais Treulio 100+ AWR yn gwirfoddoli ar gyfer EICH lles HYRWYDDWR LLES, wedi cael hyfforddiant atal hunanladdiad ac ymyrraeth gwyliwr Beth byddaf i’n ei wneud gyda’ch pleidlais: Atgyweirio'r system tiwtoriaid personol/goruchwylwyr er mynd ei wneud yn system gyson, effeithiol a chefnogol. CYFLWYNO anifail therapi ar gyfer cefnogi myfyrwyr NEWID profion dyslecsia i fod AM DDIM CYNRYCHIOLI a GWRANDO arnoch chi drwy oriau swyddfa agored a chynghorion penodol i ddemograffeg BOD YN BRESENNOL yn y Mynydd Bychan yn wythnosol CYSYLLTU’R Brifysgol a Chefnogaeth Myfyrwyr i wella amseroedd aros a systemau cyfeirio BRWYDRO DROS gyfathrebu a mynediad at wasanaethau lles Cymraeg CYNHYRCHU canllaw croesawu i fyfyrwyr rhyngwladol a gwella integreiddio drwy weithio gyda Bywyd Neuaddau Preswyl LOBIO’R Brifysgol i wella mynediad i bobl anabl ar draws y campws I weld mwy, gofyn cwestiynau neu ddarllen fy maniffesto estynedig, chwiliwch am #WarehamForWelfare ar Facebook

MANIFESTO 2019

WHY WILL YOU VOTE? “ TO GET REPRESENTATIVES WITH SIMILAR VALUES TO ME” SPRING ELECTIONS 2019 VOTING OPENS: 09:00 25TH FEBRUARY VOTING CLOSES: 17:00 1ST MARCH

MANIFESTO 2019

BLACK AND ETHNIC MINORITIES OFFICER SWYDDOG CROENDDU A LLEIAFRIFOEDD ETHNIG

The Black and Ethnic Minorities Officer works to represent the interests of black students and students of ethnic minority backgrounds (BEM) and to campaign on any relevant issues. Maeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;r Swyddog Croenddu a Lleiafrifoedd Ethnig yn gweithio i gynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr duon a myfyrwyr o gefndiroedd lleiafrifoedd ethnig ac ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

ARREYEH NASIR AADAN NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

MANIFESTO 2019

BLACK AND ETHNIC MINORITIES OFFICER SWYDDOG CROENDDU A LLEIAFRIFOEDD ETHNIG

CINDY IKIE Wagwan, Hello and Shwmae! I’m Cindy Ikie and I’m running to become your Black & Ethnic Minorities Officer. I’m originally a South-East Londoner with Nigerian heritage, born in Holland and raised in the UK. Now that’s over with, I’ll bore you with my academic history; I am a second year PhD Biosciences researcher funded by the Arthritis Research UK Biomechanics and Bioengineering Centre. I’m quite the ‘institutional hopper’ having studied my MRes Biomedical Research degree at Imperial College London and my BSc (Hons) Biochemistry degree at the University of Reading – basically, a science fanatic. Representing others comes naturally to me, mostly because I really enjoy liaising with other students from all walks of life, as everyone’s story is unique and important. After many years of representing students throughout my education, I believe I’m well suited for this sensitive role. If elected, I would like to transparently tackle the ‘Black Attainment Gap’, as described by the NUS. There’s a reported 26% gap between white and BME students, more BME students leaving studies before completion and poor career progression for BME graduates. Your perspectives matter most, and we could work together to create a dialogue through Coffee Mornings, campaigns and more! Wagwan, Hello a Shwmae! Cindy Ikie ydw i ac rydw i’n ymgeisio i fod yn Swyddog Croenddu a Lleiafrifoedd Ethnig. Rydw i yn wreiddiol o Dde-ddwyrain Llundain gyda threftadaeth Nigeria, wedi fy ngeni yn yr Iseldiroedd a fy magu yn y DU. Nawr fod hynny drosodd, rydw i am eich diflasu chi gyda fy hanes academaidd; rydw i’n ymchwilydd yn fy ail flwyddyn yn astudio PhD yn y Biowyddorau yn cael nawdd gan y Ganolfan Biomecaneg a Biobeirianneg Arthritis Research UK. Rydw i’n dipyn o ‘sbonciwr sefydliadau’ wedi astudio fy ngradd Mhres Ymchwil Biofeddygol yng Ngholeg Imperial Lloegr a fy BSc (Anrh) Biocemeg ym Mhrifysgol Reading - yn syml ffanatig gwyddonol. Mae cynrychioli eraill yn dod yn naturiol i mi, yn bennaf oherwydd rydw i’n mwynhau cysylltu â myfyrwyr eraill o bob cefnir mewn bywyd, gan fod stori pawb yn unigryw ac yn bwysig. Wedi sawl blwyddyn o gynrychioli myfyrwyr drwy fy addysg, rydw i’n credu rydw i yn addas iawn ar gyfer y rôl sensitif hon. Os caf fy ethol hoffwn, mewn dull tryloyw, fynd i’r afael â’r ‘Bwlch Cyrhaeddiad Pobl Dduon’, fel y disgrifir gan yr NUS. Adroddir bod bwlch o 26% rhwng myfyrwyr gwyn a BME+, mae mwy o fyfyrwyr BME+ yn gadael eu hastudiaethau cyn eu cyflawni a chynnydd gyrfaol gwael ar gyfer graddedigion BME. Eich safbwyntiau chi sydd bwysicaf, ac fe allwn gydweithio i greu deialog drwy Foreau Coffi, ymgyrchoedd a mwy!

JEEVAN KAUR Hi I'm Manjeevan! I am a second-year undergraduate studying Journalism, Media, and English. I am a proactive member of the student body and want to do more to tackle issues impacting BAME+ students. I am supportive and confident reaching out to students from diverse backgrounds. I am committed to championing further awarenes ackgroundns aimed at improving University experiences and prospects in the future. I would focus on greater awareness of different cultures and concentrate on strengthening a sense of community on campus. I helped students voicing their comments as a Student Rep and Student Mentor, which enhanced my ability to effectively communicate pressing concerns and reach resolutions. These initial ideas aim to ensure there is meaningful and conscious change for students from BAME+ backgrounds. Events and panels highlighting a range of opportunities. A network for BAME+ students to voice their experiences. Drop-in sessions to provide a platform for concerns and improvements. Skills sessions and activities to foster an inclusive atmosphere. Awareness campaigning to bridge BAME+ attainment gap. Career boosting sessions and collaborative approach to create connections. Haia Manjeevan ydw i! Rydw i’n fyfyriwr israddedig yn fy ail flwyddyn yn astudio Newyddiaduraeth, Cyfryngau a Saesneg. Rydw i’n aelod gweithredol o gorff y myfyrwyr ac eisiau gwneud mwy i fynd i’r afael a materion yn effeithio ar fyfyrwyr BME+. Rydw i’n gefnogol ac yn hyderus yn cysylltu â myfyrwyr o gefndiroedd amrywiol. Rydw i’n ymrwymedig i hyrwyddo ymgyrchoedd ymwybyddiaeth bellach wedi eu hanelu at wella profiadau Prifysgol a rhagolygon yn y dyfodol. Byddwn yn ffocysu ar ymwybyddiaeth fwy o ddiwylliannau gwahanol a chanolbwyntio ar gryfhau ymdeimlad o gymuned ar y campws. Cynorthwyais fyfyrwyr yn lleisio eu sylwadau fel Cynrychiolydd Myfyrwyr a Mentor Myfyrwyr, sydd wedi ehangu fy ngallu i gyfathrebu’n pryderon enbyd yn effeithiol a chyrraedd datrysiad. Mae’r syniadau cychwynnol hyn yn anelu at sicrhau bod newid ystyrlon ac ymwybodol ar gyfer myfyrwyr o gefndiroedd BME+. Digwyddiadau a phaneli yn uwch-oleuo amrywiaeth o gyfleoedd. Rhwydwaith i fyfyrwyr BME+ i leisio eu profiadau. Sesiynau galw heibio i ddarparu llwyfan i bryderon a gwelliannau. Sesiynau sgiliau a gweithgareddau i fabwysiadu awyrgylch gynhwysol. Ymgyrchoedd ymwybyddiaeth i leihau bwlch cyrhaeddiad BME+. Sesiynau hybu gyrfa ac ymagwedd gydweithredol i greu cysylltiadau.

MANIFESTO 2019

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS' OFFICER SWYDDOG MYFYRWYR RHYNGWLADOL

The International Students' Officer works to represent International Students’ interests at Union and University level and to campaign on any relevant issues. Mae’r Swyddog Myfyrwyr Rhyngwladol yn gweithio i gynrychioli buddiannau Myfyrwyr Rhyngwladol yn yr Undeb a’r Brifysgol ac ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

POORVI RAVINDRA AGARWAL Hello I am Poorvi Agarwal and as part of international student I would like to nominate myself for this post because I think the problems faced by international students are same and being a part of it I would share my experience to help everyone adjust to the new environment and overcome the problems. I would not promise like others do but I'll definitely give my 100% do stand upto everyone's expectation. Helo Poorvi Agarwal ydw i ac fel myfyriwr rhyngwladol hoffwn enwebu fy hun ar gyfer y swydd hon oherwydd rydw i’n credu fod problemau sy’n wynebu myfyrwyr rhyngwladol yr un peth, ac o fod yn rhan ohono byddwn yn rhannu fy mhrofiad i helpu pawb i addasu i’r amgylchedd newydd a goresgyn eu problemau. Ni fyddaf yn addo fel mae eraill yn gwneud ond yn bendant, byddaf yn rhoi 100% i gyrraedd disgwyliadau pawb.

MANIFESTO 2019

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS' OFFICER SWYDDOG MYFYRWYR RHYNGWLADOL

PARUL JAIN Hello Everyone, hope you all doing good :) I want to be International student officer because I myself is international student. I can help you and understand you better. I have the ability to represent things smoothly and calmly. I can take responsibility very smartly. please DO TRUST ME and Vote for ME. I hope we will meet soooon. and if you want to know para care or not? follow me on my insta that is Paradontcare7 my profile is all about traveling, adventure and campaigns. hope you all like it and will vote for me. Thank you so much. Helo bawb, Gobeithio eich bod chi gyd yn cadw’n iawn :) Rydw i eisiau bod yn Swyddog Myfyrwyr Rhyngwladol oherwydd rydw i fy hunan yn fyfyriwr rhyngwladol. Gallaf eich helpu chi a’ch deall yn well. Mae gen i’r gallu i gynrychioli pethau yn esmwyth a digynnwrf. Gallaf gymryd cyfrifoldeb yn gall. A WNEWCH CHI YMDDIRIED YNOF a PHLEIDLEISIO DROSOF os gwelwch yn dda. Gobeithio y byddwn yn cyfarfod yn fuan. Ac os ydych chi eisiau gwybod pam ddim? Dilynwch fi ar fy instagram sef Paradontcare7 Mae fy mhroffil yn ymwneud â theithio, antur ac ymgyrchoedd. Gobeithio y gwnewch chi ei hoffi a phleidleisio drosof i. Diolch yn fawr iawn.

JUI-HSUAN SU NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS' OFFICER SWYDDOG MYFYRWYR RHYNGWLADOL

GERLINE WILLIAM NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

MANIFESTO 2019

ALISTAIR CREAVEN

MENTAL HEALTH OFFICER SWYDDOG IECHYD MEDDWL

The Mental Health Officer works to represent the interests of students experiencing a mental health condition at Union and University level and campaigns on any relevant issues. Mae’r Swyddog Iechyd Meddwl yn gweithio i gynrychioli myfyrwyr sy'n profi cyflwr iechyd meddwl ar lefel Undeb a'r Brifysgol ar unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

Feeling isolated at Cardiff University? Maybe it's time for that to change. Vote Alistair Creaven as Mental Health Officer. I stand for increasing awareness of not just mental health issues that are prevalent at the university level, but also for campaigning for awareness of the various systems already in place which many might not now how to use or even know about. This would apply especially for first year students. As someone who has used the extenuating circumstances service, and also someone who found it quite intimidating at first. I would like to make it more explicit who can use the services and how they work. This will enable the wellbeing services to better do their job through reaching more people. Many people may tolerate their circumstances stoically when they need not! Anyone who thinks they're not eligible may in fact be eligible for extenuating circumstances. I also support maintaining current services, be it: Counselling from wellbeing officers Drop-in services Online advice Group therapy sessions ------------Ultimately I stand for the people. A much more inclusive system and building the university to be more open to mental health issues and creating more of a safe space. Thanks, Alistair Creaven Teimlo’n ynysig ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd? Efallai ei bod hi’n bryd i hynny newid. Pleidleisiwch dros Alistair Creaven fel Swyddog Iechyd Meddwl. Rydw i’n sefyll dros godi ymwybyddiaeth nid yn unig o faterion iechyd meddwl sydd yn fynych ar lefel y brifysgol, ond hefyd am ymgyrchu am ymwybyddiaeth o’r systemau amrywiol sydd yn barod ar gael, gan fod llawer o bosib ddim yn gwybod sut i’w defnyddio na hyd yn oed yn ymwybodol o’u bodolaeth. Byddai hyn yn enwedig yn berthnasol i fyfyrwyr blwyddyn gyntaf. Fel rhywun sydd wedi defnyddio’r gwasanaeth amgylchiadau esgusodol, a hefyd rhywun a oedd yn ei weld yn frawychus i ddechrau. Hoffwn ei wneud yn fwy eglur pwy sy’n gallu defnyddio’r gwasanaethau a sut maent yn gweithio. Bydd hyn yn galluogi'r gwasanaethau lles i wneud eu gwaith yn well drwy gyrraedd mwy o bobl. Mae llawer o bobl yn goddef eu hamgylchiadau yn stoicaidd heb angen! Gall unrhyw un sydd meddwl nad ydynt yn gymwys fod yn gymwys mewn gwirionedd ar gyfer amgylchiadau esgusodol. Rydw i hefyd yn cefnogi cynnal gwasanaethau presennol, boed yn; Cwnsela gan swyddogion lles Gwasanaethau galw heibio Cyngor ar-lein Sesiynau therapi grŵp ------------Yn y pen draw rydw i’n sefyll dros y bobl. System llawer mwy cynhwysol ac adeiladau’r brifysgol i fod yn fwy agored i broblemau iechyd meddwl a chreu man mwy diogel. Diolch, Alistair Creaven

MANIFESTO 2019

MENTAL HEALTH OFFICER SWYDDOG IECHYD MEDDWL

DANIEL MAPATAC Hello, My manifesto can be found on: bit.ly/mapatac Give it a read and if you too are passionate about the issues I’ve raised, please consider giving me your vote! Helo, Gellir dod o hyd i fy maniffesto yma: bit.ly/mapatac Darllenwch fy maniffesto ac os ydych chi hefyd yn angerddol ynglŷn â’r materion rydw i wedi eu codi, ystyriwch roi eich pleidlais i mi!

CAITLIN PARR Hello! I’m Caitlin and I want to be your new Mental Health Officer! I’m an enthusiastic and extremely passionate person who will always go the extra mile to ensure students feel supported and listened to. I work tirelessly to improve the student experience - being part of the Student Advice and Welfare Executive Committee; Fresher’s welfare team and ‘Buddy Scheme’. I have also been elected as the first ever President of ‘Talk It Out’! Setting up ‘Talk It Out’ has been an incredibly valuable experience, helping students talk through their issues within a safe environment. I’m a ‘Peer Educator’ for Girlguiding UK; teaching young girls about resilience, mental health and signs of unhealthy relationships. The topics of relationships and domestic abuse are very important to me and I would love to develop more support for students who are victims of abuse and currently under-represented. I also want to enhance provisions for the mental health of LGBT+ students; improve Heath Park wellbeing services; and implement compulsory mental health training for staff such as Personal Tutors. Approximately 1/4 of our student body will suffer from mental health problems in their lifetime so please help me help them by voting today. Thank you! Helo! Caitlin ydw i, ac rydw i eisiau bod yn Swyddog Iechyd Meddwl! Rydw i’n frwdfrydig ac yn berson hynod angerddol a fydd wastad yn mynd y filltir olaf i sicrhau fod myfyrwyr yn teimlo fel eu bod yn cael eu cefnogi a bod pobl yn gwrando arnynt. Rydw i’n gweithio’n ddiflino i wella profiad y myfyriwr - o fod yn rhan o Gyngor i Fyfyrwyr a’r Pwyllgor Gwaith lles; tîm lles a ‘Cynllun Cyfeillio’ Y Glas. Rydw i hefyd wedi cael fy ethol fel llywydd cyntaf erioed ‘Siaradwch Amdano’! Mae sefydlu ‘Siaradwch Amdano’ wedi bod yn brofiad hynod werthfawr, yn helpu i fyfyrwyr siarad drwy eu problemau mewn amgylchedd diogel. Rydw i’n ‘Addysgwr Cyfoedion’ ar gyfer Girlguiding Uk; yn dysgu merched ifanc ynglŷn â gwydnwch, iechyd meddwl ac arwyddion perthynas afiachus. Mae’r pynciau perthnasau a thrais domestig yn hynod bwysig i mi ac fe garwn ddatblygu mwy o gefnogaeth i fyfyrwyr sydd yn ddioddefwyr trais ac yn cael eu tangynrychioli ar hyn o bryd. Rydw i hefyd eisiau ehangu darpariaethau ar gyfer iechyd meddwl myfyrwyr LHDT+; gwella gwasanaethau lles Y Mynydd Bychan; cyflwyno hyfforddiant iechyd meddwl angenrheidiol i staff megis Tiwtoriaid Personol. Bydd oddeutu 1/4 o gorff y myfyrwyr yn dioddef o broblemau iechyd meddwl yn eu bywyd felly, os gwelwch yn dda a wnewch chi fy helpu i’w helpu nhw drwy bleidleisio heddiw. Diolch!

MANIFESTO 2019

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES OFFICER SWYDDOG MYFYRWYR AG ANABLEDDAU

The Students with Disabilities Officer works to represent the interests of students with disabilities at Union and University level and campaigns on any relevant issues. Mae’r Swyddog Myfyrwyr ag Anableddau yn gweithio i gynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr ag anableddau yn yr Undeb a’r Brifysgol ac ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

SAREENA NAWAZ NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

MANIFESTO 2019

ETHICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER SWYDDOG MOESEGOL AC AMGYLCHEDDOL

FLAVIE IOOS Hi! My name is Flavie and I’m a second year biology undergraduate student. I am currently vice president of People and Planet society, which has achieved the divestment of Cardiff University from fossil fuels and is currently running the Sweatshop Free campaign. If I am elected, my main goals would be to: Introduce more vegetarian and vegan options at the Taf Turn advertising screens off outside of working hours in the SU Support the Sweatshop Free campaign ran by People and Planet Replace disposable plastic cups with reusable cups at the SU Introduce more recycling bins on campus (for batteries, paper, lightbulbs etc.) Better regulate heating in libraries and SU meeting rooms Organise more talks on environmental and ethical issues ran by specialists on these subjects Introduce bee hives on the SU roof, as it has been done in the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Add more water-saving toilets on campus. If you would like to see these changes happen on campus, please vote for me to become your next Ethical and Environmental Officer! Haia! Fy enw i yw Flavie ac rydw i’n fyfyriwr israddedig yn fy ail flwyddyn ys astudio bioleg. Rydw yn llywydd ar Gymdeithas y Bobl a’r Blaned ar hyn o bryd, sydd wedi llwyddo gwaredu buddsoddiadau Prifysgol Caerdydd i mewn i danwyddau ffosil ac mae’r ymgyrch ar hyn o bryd yn cynnal ymgyrch Gwrth Slafdai.

The Ethical and Environmental Officer works to represent students’ ethical and environmental interests and campaigns on any relevant issues. Mae’r Swyddog Moesegol ac Amgylcheddol yn gweithio i gynrychioli buddiannau moesegol ac amgylcheddol myfyrwyr ac yn ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

Os caf fy ethol, fy mhrif amcanion yw i: Gyflwyno mwy o opsiynau llysieuol a fegan yn y Taf Troi sgriniau hysbysebu i ffwrdd y tu allan i oriau gweithio yn yr Undeb Cefnogi’r ymgyrch Gwrth Slafdai a redir gan Gymdeithas Pobl a’r Blaned Ailosod cwpanau plastig y gellir eu taflu gyda chwpanau eildro yn yr Undeb Cyflwyno mwy o finiau ailgylchu ar y campws (ar gyfer batris, papur, bylbiau ayyb.) Rheoleiddio gwres yn well mewn llyfrgelloedd a chyfarfodydd yr Undeb Trefnu mwy o sgyrsiau ar faterion amgylcheddol a moesegol wedi eu rhedeg gan arbenigwyr ar y pynciau hyn Cyflwyno cychod gwenyn ar ’o'r Undeb, gan ei fod wedi cael ei wneud yn yr Ysgol Fferylliaeth a Gwyddorau Fferyllol Ychwanegu mwy o doiledau arbed dŵr ar y campws. Hoffwn weld y newidiadau hyn yn digwydd ar y campws, pleidleisiwch drosof i fod y Swyddog Moesegol ac Amgylcheddol nesaf!

MANIFESTO 2019

ETHICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER SWYDDOG MOESEGOL AC AMGYLCHEDDOL

ROSS MCQUILLAN-JOHNSON NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

NUZHA NADEEM Hello everyone! I am Nuzha Nadeem and I will be campaigning for the post of Ethical and Environmental officer for the Spring elections 2019. I am a firstyear student studying Civil and Environment engineering. Being the treasurer of the environment club back in my school and also the student representative and ambassador at Cardiff University has given me the chance to grow as an individual, who works towards encouraging a positive atmosphere for our community in and outside our campus. If elected, the first change that I would love to bring into our community would be to promote good behavior to people as well as the environment, treat others how you want to be treated, your ethics and morals define who you are. Opening communal fridges across campus, this would not only prevent us from wasting food but also help the homeless. Promoting the habit of hand me downs of electronic gadgets from students who are graduating Cardiff University. Organizing organic food stalls at our campus, to promote healthy eating and much more. Thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto. Every student’s opinion matters, if you have any questions feel free to email me at nadeemn1@cardiff.ac.uk. Helo bawb! Nuzha Nadeem ydw i ac fe fyddaf yn ymgyrchu am y swydd o Swyddog Moesegol ac Amgylcheddol ar gyfer etholiadau’r Gwanwyn 2019. Rydw i’n fyfyriwr blwyddyn gyntaf yn astudio Peirianneg Sifil ac Amgylcheddol. Mae bod yn drysorydd y clwb amgylcheddol yn fy ysgol gynt yn ogystal â bod yn gynrychiolydd a llysgennad myfyrwyr ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd wedi rhoi'r cyfle i mi i dyfu fel unigolyn, sy’n gweithio tuag at annog awyrgylch cadarnhaol ar gyfer ein cymuned y ar ac oddi ar ein campws. Os caf fy ethol, y newid cyntaf y byddaf yn caru ei gyflwyno i’n cymuned fydd hyrwyddo agwedd dda tuag at bobl yn ogystal â’r amgylchedd, trin eraill fel yr hoffech gael eich trin, mae eich moesau a’ch egwyddorion yn diffinio pwy ydych chi. Agor oergelloedd cymunedol ar draws y campws, bydd hyn nid yn unig yn ein hatal rhag gwastraffu bwyd ond hefyd yn helpu’r digartref. Hyrwyddo’r ymarfer o ddefnyddio teclynnau electronig ail-law gan fyfyrwyr sydd yn graddio o Brifysgol Caerdydd. Trefnu stondinau bwyd organig ar ein campws, i hyrwyddo bwyta’n iach a llawer mwy. Diolch am roi o’ch amser i ddarllen fy maniffesto. Mae barn bob myfyriwr yn bwysig, os oes gennych chi unrhyw gwestiynau mae croeso i chi fy e-bostio i ar nadeemn1@caerdydd.ac.uk.

MANIFESTO 2019

ETHICAL & ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICER SWYDDOG MOESEGOL AC AMGYLCHEDDOL

WAQAR SHAH My name is Syed Waqar. I'm running to be your next Ethics & Environment Officer. The opportunities provided by the position of Ethical and Environmental Officer are numerous; I seek to have a lasting impact on the habits and cultures found not only on campus, but also in the local community outside of the University. As a son of an environment and remote sensing scientist, with more than 45 years of experience, I understand the impact of the environment and have always been passionate about leading a sustainable lifestyle. I am aiming to reduce our environmental impacts (energy, water, food and other resources use & waste). I am looking forward to spreading more information about the current environmental issues that we are facing and encourage all the members of the university towards their behaviours relating to the environment. I will also initiate a suggestion scheme among the students and staff members for giving at least one suggestion through observing the university surrounding to eliminate more environmental issues. I believe in give and take theory so if we give respect to our nature, we will take back a good future.I'll be working on, creating a more sustainable, accessible and ethical union. Fy enw i yw Syed Waqar. Rydw i’n ymgeisio i fod y Swyddog Amgylcheddol a Moesegol. Mae’r cyfleoedd a ddarperir yn swydd y Swyddog Amgylcheddol a Moesegol yn niferus; rydw i’n anelu i gael dylanwad tymor hir ar arferion a diwylliant a geir nid yn unig o amgylch y campws, ond hefyd yn y gymuned leol y tu allan i’r Brifysgol. Fel mab i wyddonydd amgylcheddol a synhwyro anghysbell, gyda mwy na 45 mlynedd o brofiad, rydw i’n deall y dylanwad yr amgylchedd a wastad wedi bod yn angerddol ynglŷn â byw bywyd cynaliadwy. Rydw i’n anelu i leihau ein dylanwad amgylcheddol (egni, dŵr, bwyd a defnydd a gwastraff adnoddau eraill). Rydw i’n edrych ymlaen at ledaenu mwy o wybodaeth ynglŷn â materion amgylcheddol presennol rydyn ni’n eu hwynebu ac yn annog bob aelod o’r brifysgol tuag at eu hagweddau tuag at yr amgylchedd Byddaf hefyd yn sefydlu cynllun awgrymiadau ymysg myfyrwyr ac aelodau o staff i roi o leiaf un awgrym drwy arsylwi o amgylch y brifysgol i waredu mwy o broblemau amgylcheddol. Rydw i’n credu yn y theori o roi a derbyn felly os dangoswn ni barch tuag at ein natur, fe fyddwn yn derbyn dyfodol da. Fe fyddaf yn gweithio at greu undeb mwy cynaliadwy, hygyrch a moesegol.

LUCY STARKIE NO MANIFESTO SUBMITTED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

MANIFESTO 2019

JACOB MORRIS

SWYDDOG Y GYMRAEG WELSH LANGUAGE OFFICER

Os byddaf yn ddigon ffodus i ennill eich pleidlais, addawaf i wireddu'r canlynol: 1. Parhau gyda'r gwaith sydd eisoes ar y gweill o sicrhau Swyddog y Gymraeg llawn-amser, drwy gydweithio'n unol â\r Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd (UMCC). 2. Trefnu digwyddiadau i hyrwyddo Dydd Gwyl Ddewi, Dydd Miwsig Cymru a Diwrrnod Shwmae Sumae. Fydd digwyddiadau o'r fath yn sicrhau fod y Gymraeg yn rhywbeth fyw ac yn iach. 3. Cydweithio gyda'r frwydr sydd eisoes ar y gweill: waredu arholiadau ar ddydd Sadwrn. Gan gofio bod Eisteddfod yr Urdd yn syrthio ar ddydd Sadwrn, fyddai eu gwaredu yn galluogi myfyrwyr gystadlu. 4. Sefydlu Cymdeithas newydd i ddysgwyr Cymraeg. Fel sy'n digwydd ym Mangor ac Aber, gall dysgwyr cwrdd â siaradwyr iaith gyntaf i ymarfer eu Cymraeg mewn awyrgylch anffurfiol tu hwnt i'r stafell ddosbarth. 5. Cydweithio'n glos gyda'r Gym Gym, Cymdeithas Iolo a swydd newydd Deon y Gymraeg. Law yn llaw gyda fy ngwaith fel llysgennad, sefydlu fforwm y Coleg Cymraeg er mwyn gwneud y Coleg yn rhywbeth sy'n fwy na ffynhonnell arian gan greu nosweithiau Pitsa a Pheint, ynghyd â threfnu gigs achlysurol. Addawaf i weithio hyd eithaf fy ngallu i sicrhau fod gan fyfyrwyr Cymraeg eu hiaith lle cydradd o fewn y Brifysgol. If I would be lucky enough to gain your vote, I promise to do the following:

Mae’r Swyddog y Gymraeg yn gyfrifol am gynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr sy’n siarad Cymraeg yn y Brifysgol o fewn strwythurau’r Undeb a, lle y bo’n briodol, strwythurau’r Brifysgol. The Welsh Language Officer is responsible for representing the interests of Welsh speaking students at the University within the structures of the Union and where appropriate, the University.

1. Continue with the work of securing a full-time Welsh Language Officer that’s already in motion, by working together with UMCC (Cardiff’s Welsh Speaker’s Students’ Union). 2. Organise events to promote St. David’s Day, Welsh Language Music Day and Shwmae Sumae Day. Events like these will ensure that the Welsh language is something that’s alive and thriving. 3. Working together with the battle that’s already under way; getting rid of exams on Saturdays. As the Youth Eisteddfod yr Urdd falls on a Saturday, removing Saturday exams would enable students to compete. 4. Set up a new Society for Welsh language learners. As in Bangor and Aber, learners can meet and mingle with first language speakers to practice their Welsh in an unformal environment, beyond the classroom. 5. Working closely with the Gym Gym (Welsh Language Society), Cymdeithas Iolo and the new Welsh Language Dean, hand in hand with my work as an ambassador, set up a Coleg Cymraeg forum to make sure the Coleg is something that’s more than just a source of money by creating Pizza and Pint nights, as well as some occasional gigs. I promise to work to the best of my ability to ensure that Welsh language students have an equal place within the University.

MANIFESTO 2019

ZACH EDGE

LGBT+ OFFICER (OPEN) SWYDDOG LHDT+ (AGORED)

The LGBT+ Officer (Open) role is to represent Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans* and Plus students’ interests and to campaign on any relevant issues. Rôl y Swyddog LHDT+ (Agored) yw cynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr Lesbiaidd, Hoyw, Ddeurywiol, Traws* a Phlws ac i ymgyrchu ar faterion perthnasol.

Shwmae/Hey everyone I've been involved with the LGBT+ community in Cardiff for a few years now, I identify as a transgender man and have held positions on both CU Pride and the LGBT+ association. I've also sat on Student Senate and Scrutiny Committee; I am very passionate about making changes and inspiring growth in the union. I am keen to continue the work done on the accessibility of gender neutral toilets and on making gender neutral spaces more available around Cardiff. I've heard many horror stories about individuals being questioned or made uncomfortable when using changing rooms and if elected, I would actively be lobbying for change across clothing retailers in Cardiff. I'd also like to provide more social opportunities and safe spaces for LGBT+ people. I'd be continuing my predecessors' drop in sessions and frequent socials through the LGBT+ association. As well as this I'd be looking to work directly with the University to ensure that they maintain focus on LGBT+ mental health in their support services and see the continuation of student involvement in that process as they have been doing this year with regular focus groups. Vote for me and get the Edge on LGBT+ issues. Shwmae bawb Rydw i wedi bod yn ymwneud gyda’r gymuned LHDT+ yng Nghaerdydd am flynyddoedd bellach, rydw i’n cydnabod fy hun fel dyn trawsrywiol ac wedi cynnal swyddi ar CU Pride a’r gymdeithas LHDT+. Rydw i hefyd wedi bod ar Senedd y Myfyrwyr a’r Pwyllgor Craffu; rydw i’n hynod angerddol ynglŷn â gwneud newidiadau ac ysbrydoli twf yn yr undeb. Rydw i’n awyddus i barhau’r gwaith rydw i wedi ei wneud ar hygyrchedd toiledau niwtral o ran rhyw ac ar wneud mwy o fannau niwtral o ran rhyw ar gael o amgylch Caerdydd. Rydw i wedi clywed sawl stori arswyd am unigolion yn cael eu cwestiynu neu eu gwneud yn anghyfforddus wrth ddefnyddio ystafelloedd newid ac os caf fy ethol, byddwn yn weithredol lobio am newid mewn siopau dillad ar draws Caerdydd. Hoffwn hefyd ddarparu mwy o gyfleoedd cymdeithasol a mannau diogel ar gyfer pobl LHDT+. Byddaf yn parhau gyda sesiynau galw heibio a digwyddiadau cymdeithasol fy rhagflaenydd drwy’r gymdeithas LHDT+. Yn ogystal â hyn byddaf yn edrych i weithio yn uniongyrchol gyda’r Brifysgol i sicrhau eu bod yn cynnal ffocws ar iechyd meddwl LHDT+ yn eu gwasanaethau cefnogi a gweld parhad myfyrwyr yn ymwneud a’r broses honno fel sydd wedi bod yn digwydd eleni gyda grwpiau ffocws cyson. Pleidleisiwch drosof i gael Edge ar faterion LHDT+.

MANIFESTO 2019

EDEL ANABWANI

MATURE STUDENTS’ OFFICER SWYDDOG MYFYRWYR HYN

Hi everyone, my name is Edel Anabwani, Journalism, Media and Cultural student, and I would love to be your Mature Officer this year. I believe I have the experience passion, and commitment to fulfil the role to the best of my ability. As well as furthering the work of previous Mature Officers, my ideas for the role are as follows: Mature Committee I feel it is important to have an organisation representing all mature people at the university. For this reason, I will endeavour to set up a mature person’s committee, where there will be elected women/men representing the diversity of groups to ensure the diverse range of issues that mature face at the university is being addressed. Summary of what I hope to do for the mature students if elected Take policy proposals on issues affecting mature students to Student Council and/or AGM, based on feedback from mature students Organise and deliver a campaign related to issues affecting mature students Fulfil any democratic mandates and promote any matters of Union policy that relate to mature students Deliver your manifesto pledges Support other members of the Student Leadership Team and to contribute to their campaigns, as required Haia bawb, fy enw i yw Edel Anabwani, myfyriwr Newyddiaduraeth, Cyfryngau ac Astudiaethau Diwylliannol, ac fe garwn fod yn Swyddog Myfyrwyr Hŷn drosoch chi eleni. Rydw i’n credu fod gen i’r profiad, angerdd ac ymrwymiad i gyflawni’r rôl hyd gorau fy ngallu. Yn ogystal â datblygu ar waith Swyddogion Myfyrwyr Hŷn blaenorol, mae fy syniadau ar gyfer y rôl fel a ganlyn:

The Mature Students' Officer role is to represent mature student’s interests and to campaign on any relevant issues. Rôl y Swyddog Myfyrwyr Hyn yw cynrychioli myfyrwyr hyn ac ymgyrchu ar unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

Pwyllgor Myfyrwyr Hŷn Rydw i’n teimlo ei fod yn bwysig i gael sefydliad yn cynrychioli'r holl fyfyrwyr hŷn yn y brifysgol. Am y rheswm hwn, byddaf yn ymdrechu i sefydlu pwyllgor myfyrwyr hŷn, lle bydd menywod/dynion etholedig yn cynrychioli amrywiaeth o grwpiau i sicrhau amrywiaeth eang o faterion y mae myfyrwyr hŷn yn eu hwynebu yn y brifysgol yn cael eu trafod. Crynodeb o’r hyn rydw i’n gobeithio ei wneud ar gyfer y myfyrwyr aeddfed os caf fy ethol Cymryd cynigion polisïau ar faterion yn effeithio myfyrwyr hŷn i’r Cyngor Myfyrwyr ac/neu i’r CCB, yn seiliedig ar adborth gan fyfyrwyr hŷn Trefnu a darparu ymgyrch yn ymwneud â materion sy’n effeithio myfyrwyr hŷn Cyflawni unrhyw fandadau democrataidd a hyrwyddo unrhyw faterion o bolisi’r Undeb sy’n gysylltiedig â myfyrwyr hŷn Dosbarthu eich addewidion maniffesto. Cefnogi aelodau eraill o’r Tîm Arweinyddiaeth Myfyrwyr ac i gyfrannu at eu hymgyrchoedd, fel y disgwylir

MANIFESTO 2019

NIAMH HINCHCLIFFE

WOMEN’S OFFICER SWYDDOG MERCHED

The Women’s Officer works to represent women students’ interests and campaigns on any relevant issues. Mae Swyddog Merched yn gweithio i gynrychioli buddiannau myfyrwyr sy’n ferched ac ymgyrchu dros unrhyw faterion perthnasol.

NO MANIFESTO UPLAODED HEB GYFLWYNO MANIFFESTO

WHY WILL YOU VOTE?

“ BECAUSE DEMOCRACY = POWER TO THE PEOPLE.” SPRING ELECTIONS 2019 VOTING OPENS: 09:00 25TH FEBRUARY VOTING CLOSES: 17:00 1ST MARCH

CARDIFFSTUDENTS.COM/VOTE

Labour and Conservative MPs have defected following rising tensions over Brexit and anti-Semitism; is a new centrist party on the horizon?

by Charlotte King

it is not the sole reason some of these MPs have quit the Labour Party; some have also left due to ideological differences with their leader. For example, Chris Leslie believes that Labour has been “hijacked by the machine politics of the hard left” and whilst his political values remain the same, he does not

Chuka Umunna

MP for Streatham since 2010. “Are you sick and tired of politics as usual? So are we. If you want an alternative, help us build it”

Luciana Berger

MP for Liverpool Wavertree since 2010. “I have become embarrassed and ashamed to remain in the Labour Party”

“embarrassed and ashamed” to remain a member of the Labour Party, and the values Labour used to have are “constantly devalued, undermined, violated and attacked”. For example, Jewish MPs Ruth Smeeth and Louise Ellman were told that they “didn’t have human blood”, however said that the party’s way of dealing with this anti-Semitic abuse showed “no understanding of the enormity of what is going on”. Ultimately, the Independent Group claim, “politics is broken, it doesn’t have to be

The Gang of Four: Dr David Owen (centre) defected with three MPs to form the SDP the last time Labour split. Source: LSE Library (via Flickr) come an increasingly important issue within the Labour Party, but some feel that rather than tackling it head-on, it has been swept under the carpet and not dealt with properly. For example, Ryan stated that she did not believe anti-Semitism was an issue within the party before Corbyn’s rise to leadership. Shuker commented, “Today, the Labour Party is riddled with anti-Semitism”, with 673 allegations being made by members over the past 10 months, and risks the wellbeing of his constituents in Luton. Luciana Berger, another one of the breakaway MPs, has sadly been at the centre of anti-Semitic attacks and abuse for some time whilst being persistently critical of Corbyn also. One of her opponents in her local party called her a “disruptive Zionist” and earlier this month she nearly faced a no-confidence motion before it was withdrawn. Berger states that she is

this way. Let’s change it”. Following the announcement of the Labour split, the following day brought with it a small wave of defectors from the Conservative Party. Anna Soubry, Sarah Wollaston and Heidi Allen all departed to join the Independent Group, stating they took this decision due to the “disastrous handling” of Brexit. They see the new group as forming “the centre ground of British politics”. In their joint letter to the PM, all three MPs said they did not believe she was committed to a “moderate, open-hearted Conservative party” and whilst they continue to support the government on certain policy areas, such as the economy, they feel “honour bound” to their constituents and the country and have thus decided to leave the party. Allen further elaborated on rising poverty in the UK, stating she was dissatisfied with the government’s ‘ignorance’ of the suffering of society’s

The Gang of Seven Chris Leslie

MP for Nottingham East since 2010. “British politics is now well and truly broken. Labour’s betrayal on Europe is visible for all to see”

Mike Gapes

MP for Ilford South since 1992. “I am furious that Labour is complicit in facilitating Brexit which will greatly damage our country”

Angela Smith

MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge since 2010. “I cannot affiliate with a party I consider unfit for government”

Gavin Shuker

MP for Luton South since 2010. “The Labour Party is riddled with anti-Semitism, threatening our national security”

“most vulnerable”. This has undoubtedly weakened Theresa May’s government as a majority of now only a handful of MPs. Some have expressed their sadness at the turn of events, whilst some have been openly celebrating the loss of these MPs. Sir Vince Cable, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has said that his party are open to working with “like-minded groups” who want to give the people the “final say on Brexit”, but the Independent Group have confirmed they will not be partnering with the party because they want to offer an alternative centrist movement. Many among the Labour Party itself however have met this development with a more sombre tone, for example MP Jess Phillips tweeted: “I feel so very sad”. Others responded to the defections with celebration, however this was quickly shut down by the party’s Deputy Leader, Tom Watson. For example, Young Labour tweeted: “Though cowards flinch and traitors sneer, we’ll keep the red flag flying here”. Watson stated this is however a time for “regret and reflection” rather than “a mood of anger or a tone of triumph”, agreeing that the Labour Party has a long way to go when it comes to tackling incidences of anti-Semitism. Shadow Chancellor, John McDonnell, alongside Wales’ First Minister, Mark Drakeford, have expressed the view that these MPs should stand down and “fight by-elections back in their constituencies”, arguing that this is the honourable thing to do since these MPs won on Labour’s 2017 manifesto which they no longer support. However, current Parliamentary rules do not state the MPs legally have to put themselves forward for reelection. Who knows where we will see British politics head next? Nigel Farage is adamant that whilst this “may not look very exciting” it is “the beginning of something bigger in British politics – realignment”. Ultimately, we can only await to see if a centrist party materialises as Umunna hints it will, and if it attracts even more members from across Parliament who are dissatisfied with the current handling of Brexit. Disclaimer: All information is correct at the time of writing.

Ann Coffey

MP for Stockport since 1992. “Any criticism of the party leader is met with abuse. The party has changed beyond recognition”

Who are the Independent Group’s founders and what do they have to say?

To contact our politics desk, drop us an email at politics@gairrhydd.com

I can no longer ask people to vote for Jeremy Corbyn because I do not believe he is fit to be the Prime Minister

believe the current leadership has upheld those same values Labour stood for when Leslie first joined the party. This appears to be a common sentiment among the defectors. Ann Coffey also believes that “the current leadership has been successful in changing the party beyond recognition”, whilst Joan Ryan too states, “the values that led me to join the Labour Party are the same values that have led me to leave it today”. Moreover, anti-Semitism has be-

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

n what some are calling an unsurprising turn of events, seven MPs resigned from the Labour party and formed the Independent Group last week in protest of the party’s approach to Brexit and tackling of anti-Semitism; they were followed by an eighth resignation shortly after. The last time the Labour Party experienced a fracture like this was in 1981 when four MPs quit to form the Social Democratic Party. In their Statement of Independence, the newly organised group of MPs pledged “to put the best interests of our constituents and our country first” as they do not that believe that any of the current political parties are “fit to provide the leadership and direction needed by our country”. The group believes that Labour’s current policies relating to Brexit are detrimental to the UK’s national security, and ultimately believe Parliament is in need of a “strong and coherent” alternative Brexit deal to the one put forward by Theresa May. One of the ‘defectors’, Mike Gapes, commented: “I am furious that the Labour leadership is complicit in facilitating Brexit, which will cause great economic, social and political damage to our country”. Hence, it appears that this new group of centrist MPs will be firmly backing a second referendum or some form of People’s Vote on the proposed Brexit deal. Chuka Umunna hopes they will form a new, centrist political party by the end of 2019. However, Corbyn’s approach to Brex-

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/politics

“A microcosm of mainstream Britain”

POLITICS

POLITICS 18

Your politics desk Charlotte King Silvia Martelli Lowri Pitcher Sam Tilley

19 GWLEIDYDDIAETH

What can be done to save universities?

Labour announces plans to save universities from bankruptcy whilst Cardiff University proposes dramatic organisational changes by Jack Hudson

s Cardiff University proposes drastic organisational changes, recruitment controls and voluntary redundancy to reduce its £21 million deficit, many other universities are facing similar funding issues. Labour’s Shadow Education Minister, Angela Rayner, has announced new plans for a future Labour government to change the way universities operate in order to ensure their success. Rayner believes that “the Tories have unleashed a failed free market experiment in higher education… where the forces of competition run rampant at the expense of students, staff and communities.” She said that “education is a public good and should be treated as such.” Labour’s plans would aim to prevent universities from insolvency by giving the Office for Students, the independent regulator for higher education, the power to give loans to avoid ‘disorderly failure’ at universities. Universities which regularly require emergency funding will have sanctions placed upon them in order to avoid rewarding failing organisations. The proposals will also demand that universities are more transparent, requiring them to publish information about students’ ages, sexuality, disabilities and whether they are caregivers or not. Universities would need to publish this information annually, in-

stead of only at the request of the Office for Students. They would also cap Vice-Chancellor pay at 20 times that of the lowest paid staff member at each university. This is an attempt to limit pay inequality within universities after a report by the Office for Students stated that some vice-chancellors are paid up to 13 times the median salary of their employees. Cardiff University has experienced financial troubles, and is currently attempting to rectify a £21 million deficit. Cardiff’s Vice-Chancellor Colin Riordan has an annual salary of £256,798, along with other bonuses and perks. During the last six years, whilst severance schemes have been implemented, Riordan’s salary has continued to rise; albeit at a rate decided upon by national guidelines, not the university. Labour’s plans also include banning vice-chancellors from sitting on the boards which determine their salary. As part of the ‘Transforming Cardiff’ proposal, which aims to improve university services whilst returning to a budget surplus, roughly 380 jobs will be cut with the current voluntary severance scheme being the third in six years. The trade union, Unison, has said that these job cuts will “inevitably harm the quality of student provision at Cardiff University.” They added that “University support staff work as hard

by Emily Withers

A Transforming Cardiff: The School of Optometry and Vision Sciences may merge with the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Source: Wikimedia Commons

as they can to make Cardiff a success. They are absolutely critical to the performance of the institution and we will completely oppose compulsory redundancies.” The plans proposed by Cardiff University also aim to merge certain academic schools and recruit more students. More students and less staff may lead to stretched resources and a compromised experience for students. The Students’ Union agrees that there is a need for Cardiff University to return to a stable financial position, but wants the policies changed to avoid limiting the number of modules of-

fered, protect student support services and preserve the current high-quality of teaching. In an open letter to the Vice-Chancellor, the Students’ Union argued that students and student experience should be the priority of the Transforming Cardiff programme. The troubles at Cardiff University perhaps demonstrate the idea that increasing competition means that students and staff are not being put first in universities’ management’s decisions; but are the proposals put forward by Labour enough to tackle this growing issue?

ISIS bride demands forgiveness

As the Home Office revokes Shamima Begum’s citizenship, should the UK allow ISIS defectors to return?

by Lowri Pitcher

n February 2015, then 15-yearold Shamima Begum left the UK for Syria to marry an ISIS fighter. Now, she wants to leave the refugee camp in northeastern Syria where she has been staying in order to return to the UK to ensure the safety of her newborn child. Begum caused outrage among the British public with her lack of remorse for her actions, claiming that she does not regret her decision to marry her ISIS fighter-husband. She even justified the Manchester bombing by claiming: “It’s a two way thing really because women and children are being killed back in the Islamic State right now and it’s kind of retaliation, their [ISIS] justification is that the [Manchester bombing] was retaliation so I thought okay, that is a fair justification.” She also says that “I [she] just want forgiveness from the UK” and that “a lot of people should have sympathy towards me for what I’ve been through.” Begum’s demand for forgiveness has not been received warmly in the UK. In a letter to Begum’s mother, the Home Office confirmed a “decision [has been] taken by the Home Secretary to deprive your daughter, Shamima Begum, of her British citizenship.” Under the 1981 British Nationality Act it is illegal to revoke

an individual’s citizenship if doing so renders them stateless, therefore the government can only revoke citizenship in the case of a dual-nationality. Begum’s parents are from Bangladesh, and under Bangladeshi law this would entitle Begum to obtain a Bangladeshi passport until she turns 21, therefore she would not be rendered stateless. This process however may not be as quick and simple as initially thought, with the family’s solicitor stating that they will consider all legal avenues to challenge the decision

“The [Manchester bombing] was retaliation so I thought okay, that is a fair justification.” of the Home Office. Moreover, there is a possibility that Begum could obtain Dutch citizenship through her husband Yago Riedijk whose family still lives in Holland. Questions have also been raised regarding the nationality of her newborn son who could potentially be entitled to Brit-

Paul Flynn, Labour MP for Newport West, dies aged 84

ish citizenship through his mother’s nationality. All of these factors will undoubtedly prolong the conclusion of this case, meaning that Begum will likely remain in a refugee camp for many months, maybe years. Begum is not the only British citizen who has tried to return home after leaving to join ISIS. Up to 50% of the estimated 900 UK citizens to have joined ISIS have already returned to the UK and some MPs report that not all returnees were arrested. According to a wider report by King’s College London, it is estimated that around 5,900 citizens from Western Europe have travelled to Iraq and Syria to become ISIS fighters (mostly from the UK, France, Germany and Belgium), and of these, around 30% have returned. Ultimately, if terrorists or terrorist suspects wish to return to the UK, the Government can revoke their citizenship or impose a temporary exclusion order (if they are a dualnational). Sajid Javid, the Home Secretary, has stated that more than 100 individuals have been barred from entering the UK due their status as foreigners or having their citizenship revoked. Additionally, where evidence of criminal actions are validated, the government may prosecute. In fact, 183 people were in prison for terrorism-related crimes at the end of 2016.

“A lot of people should have sympathy towards me for what I’ve been through.” In light of the developments surrounding Begum’s request to return to the UK, Donald Trump recently called for the EU to “take back” over 800 ISIS prisoners which have been captured in Syria, implying that the US could release them. Returning these prisoners does not guarantee that justice will be served, with only around 40 of the 450 people who have returned from Syria to the UK being prosecuted. Even if suspects are trialed, kept under surveillance or imprisoned, these proceedings spend taxpayers’ money which could arguably be better spent on other vital sectors, such as education and healthcare. This begs the question: Should the UK really accept the return of defectors who have joined an enemy force in an attempt to bring them to justice? Disclaimer: All information is correct at the time of writing.

fter nearly 32 years as Labour MP for Newport West, Paul Flynn has died aged 84. Flynn, well-known as an outspoken backbencher, worked tirelessly as a campaigner on several key issues including nuclear disarmament and legalising medicinal cannabis. Born in Cardiff in 1935, Flynn was brought up by his widowed mother alongside his brother. After a good education, he attended Cardiff University where he studied industrial chemistry. Flynn first became involved with politics in 1956, when he joined the Labour Party. After 16 years of involvement with local politics in Cardiff and later in Newport, Flynn was given his first position of political authority in 1972, when he was elected to Newport Council. It was not until 1987 that he was elected to Westminster as MP for Newport West. Almost immediately upon his arrival to the commons, Flynn was given his first, albeit brief, experience as a frontbencher, where he was given the role of junior spokesperson for Wales. After this, he spent two years shadowing social security, before beginning his long service as a backbencher. Flynn’s career as Labour backbencher is one that led to him being dubbed “the thinking man’s Dennis Skinner” by journalist Simon Hoggart. He campaigned tirelessly for the legalisation of medical cannabis, which he became an advocate for in 1999, and encouraged people to rebel against its illegality. Worried about the dangers of nuclear powers, Flynn strongly criticised the potential use of nuclear weapons, along with voicing his opposition to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. There is no doubt over where Flynn lay on the political spectrum. On one occasion in 1996, he proposed a Bill for the abolition of the monarchy, and stated that the House of Lords should be replaced by a second elected house. His staunch republicanism led to much criticism over the years, but never an accusation of lack of passion. Flynn’s strong opinions were voiced on many topics, spoken in both English and fluent Welsh. Flynn’s stand-out career led to him being selected to re-join the front bench alongside Jeremy Corbyn as shadow Welsh secretary in 2016, making him the oldest frontbencher since William Gladstone. Alongside his parliamentary career, Flynn published several books on politics, and was passionate about literature, even becoming a member of the Gorsedd of the Bards. Tributes have been flowing in from politicians of all parties to a man who dedicated his life to campaigning. His death will result in the first by-election of 2019 and the first since June 2018.

POLITICS 20

Does the Spanish Constitution still work? Spanish people called to vote for the third time since the end of 2015

by Angharad May

ast week, Pedro Sánchez, the Spanish Prime Minister, called for a snap general election on April 28, 2019, just eight months into his term in office. Sánchez’s refusal to discuss a referendum on Catalonian independence led Catalan secessionist MPs to join right-wing parties to reject his budget bill. The right wing parties, Partido Popular and Cuidadanos, have blocked many bills put to parliament. Losing the support of Catalan nationalist MPs has now lead Sanchez to call for a snap election. This is only the second time a government’s budget bill has been rejected since Francisco Franco’s death in 1975, but it will be the third time since December 2015 that Spaniards will have to elect a new national parliament. Catalonia’s secessionist drive has confronted the fundamental arrangements of the 1978 Spanish Constitution, which in turn has resulted in the rise of a new nationalism across the Iberian Peninsula. The feeling that the 1978 Constitution did not fully address constitutional issues in Spain is exacerbating, and this crisis is the latest saga in Catalonia’s epic history. Those who are far-enough removed in time from Franco’s dictatorship are a generation who have no emotive connection to the Constitution. Consequently, some are stepping forward to proclaim that the agreement was unsatisfactory. An attempt from the left to rethink the Constitution is being met by a strong reaction from the right. In October 2017, the Catalan inde-

by Maisie Marston

The Spanish Prime Minister: Pedro Sanchez called for a snap election. Source: European Parliament (via Flickr) pendence issue escalated when separatist leaders organised an independence referendum that was declared unconstitutional by Spanish courts and the subsequent trial of the 12 separatist Catalan leaders is likely to provoke right-wing parties. Spain’s far-right differs from that of other European countries in that it is decidedly pro-Europe. For example, in Italy, Germany, France and Poland the far-right parties are all eurosceptic. What might be the result of this

upcoming snap election? It is almost certain that Sánchez will need to form a coalition. As stated by Dr. Andrew Dowling from the School of Modern Languages at Cardiff University, “no one party will be able to govern Spain alone” due to the country’s five-partysystem. Yet it is unclear whether a coalition would work, both in terms of numbers and political will. Dr. Dowling, who has a particular interest in the political articulation of Catalan nationalism, added: “A coali-

tion of the right and far-right is possible and has not been ruled out by the rightist parties. However, the plural left has a slight advantage in that turnout is likely to be key and voters in the centre and left will be highly mobilised to halt the ascent of the far right.” With the rise of the far-right, the political landscape in Spain is likely to become increasingly fragmented, and, as Dowling concludes, “it’s a very open election, and the campaign will be very important too.” Arguably, for as long

Tensions build in Kashmir as clashes leave scores dead

India is promising to retaliate against both the terrorist groups involved and Pakistan, who are accused of supporting them

by Sam Tilley

ne of the very few regions in the world that is home to a warzone, Kashmir has long been a bone of contention between India and Pakistan. Whilst the conflict has simmered down over the last couple of years, it was blown wide open after militant group Jaish-eMohammad attacked a group of Indian paramilitary police, killing 46. The terrorist group, widely believed by India to be backed by Pakistan, has claimed responsibility for the attack yet the Indian Federal Minister, Arun Jaitley, has vowed to take “all possible diplomatic steps” in order to isolate Pakistan from the international community. This is the latest step in the increasingly tense relationship between the two neighbouring countries in a dispute that, at times, has also involved the other juggernaut in the region, China. The terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) is a Pakistani-based jihadist group whose primary motive is to separate Kashmir from India and to absorb it into Pakistan. Indian officials have accused JeM of being a creation of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence although the organisation

Facebook needs tougher regulations, say MPs

Old History?: Indian troops based in Kashmir during the 1999 war. Source: Wikimedia Commons has been banned in Pakistan since 2002. It has a reputation of being the most active terrorist organisation in Kashmir and has been involved in a number of attacks on Indian soldiers; the most recent being the attack in Pulwama last week.

Kashmir has been a source of conflict between the two nations since the border was drawn in 1947. India and Pakistan have gone to war over the province three times since the end of the Second World War; first in 1947, then in 1965 and finally in

1999. After the end of the latest conflict, there have been various border skirmishes between Indian soldiers and various terrorist groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammad, the group responsible for last week’s attack. There have been further clashes since last week with nine Indian personnel being killed in a seeminglyrandom attack by the same militant group. India has long since alleged that said militant groups are funded by the Pakistani government, an allegation that Islamabad have strenuously denied. As both India and Pakistan are confirmed nuclear powers, experts have warned that any conflict between them could potentially turn into a nuclear exchange, an outcome that would be regarded as catastrophic by the international community. As retaliation for the latest attack, India has kept open the option of military action against their neighbour, an action that Pakistani President, Imran Khan, has warned against and requested that India releases any information it has in relation to the Pulwama attack. Khan went further and offered to launch a joint enquiry into the motives behind the attack. Whatever happens it is clear that,

fter Trump was elected in 2016, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook, confidently asserted that “The idea that fake news on Facebook influenced the election in any way is a pretty crazy idea.” It later transpired that during the campaign, social media was plagued by both automated and human accounts spreading false and misleading messages. Most notably, the Russian Internet Research Agency were found to be involved and was later charged with criminal offences for election interference. It became clear that the Facebook algorithm enabled the spread of fake news and confirmation bias, so Zuckerberg committed the company to “protecting our community from abuse and hate” and “defending against interference by nation states”. In other words, he would attempt and stop the proliferation of fake news or ‘disinformation’ as it is now referred to by the UK Government. In 2018, similar questions were asked about fake news’ impact on British politics, leading to an inquiry conducted by the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee. The inquiry included evidence from Cardiff University Crime and Security Research Unit, which described the influence of Russian-linked social media accounts designed to intensify the public impact of the 2017 terrorist attacks. Currently, Facebook outlines three key areas which they are focusing on to tackle fake news. By working with over 30 fact-checking organisations globally. Facebook claims to be “disrupting economic incentives,” “building new products to curb the spread of false news” and “helping people make more informed decisions when they encounter false news”. Despite Facebook fostering these safeguards, the committee was not satisfied, calling for a number of new regulations. It recommended that social media companies should be “obliged to take down known sources of harmful content, including proven sources of disinformation.” They concluded that, with regards to fake news, Zuckerberg had failed to show “leadership or personal responsibility”. It has been debatable as to whether social media outlets should be responsible for filtering out fake news, or whether individuals should be personally responsible for this. The government have given a clear answer to this question: it is Facebook’s responsibility. Fake news puts our democracy at risk. Tougher regulation could be the answer. In Germany, tech companies must remove hate speech within 24 hours or face a fine of €20m. As a consequence, one in six Facebook moderators are based in Germany, therefore, an update of electoral law and social media regulation could result in significant changes.

NERD VARSITY THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A HERO IN ALL OF US MONDAY 4TH - SUNDAY 17TH MARCH

tickets on sale

cardiffstudents.com/nerdvarsity

Meet & Mingle Tuesday 26th February 20:30 - 23:00, The Lodge

Come and celebrate all the great work our volunteers have completed over the year. All are welcome, volunteer or not! Open bar, food provided, as well as goodies and music!

Tickets: ÂŁ2 / Purchase from:

cardiffstudents.com/volunteering/events/

CYNGOR

To contact our advice desk, drop us an email at advice@gairrhydd.com

ADVICE

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/advice

Worried about what will happen to your relationship after uni? by Katie Lewis

ou might be able to visualise the finish line at the end of your degree by now, as for some of us, we are just months away from graduation. Finishing university is a big feat, but what happens next? If you’re in a relationship, you’re likely to have already had some discussions about life after university. I’m going to talk through a few of the scenarios graduating couples may be facing. Are you moving in with your significant other for the very first time? If so, it can feel quite daunting, as you might be accustomed to your current routine, but change is healthy, so embrace it. I’m a third year, who’s had a boyfriend at university for the entirety of those years and haven’t yet lived with him. It’s something I’m excited about, but I’m not without my reservations. I’m going to discuss some common fears associated with moving in with your partner and look at them realistically. Firstly, what if you disagree on things? For starters, this likely already happens to an extent, and disagreements are a natural part of any relationship. The way to solve disagreements is usually through compromising, which is something you’ll definitely have to do when you live together. For example, if you can’t cook very well and your partner can, offer to clean up afterwards. This give and take mentality is a good indication of a healthy relationship. Another thing that may weigh on your mind is worrying that you may never have peace and quiet again.

Your advice desk Ashavari Baral Katie Lewis Columnist Sam Saunders

You might find the idea of sharing all

away from each other for a short

of your personal space with someone quite overwhelming, but don’t overthink it. If you’re currently in a house share with your friends, it’s likely that when you aren’t with them, you spend some time in your room alone. If, like me, you treasure an hour or so alone each day to do your own thing, you might worry that you won’t have that opportunity when you live with your partner. However, if your partner is aware that you aren’t ignoring them, and that it’s because you want some peace, they should understand where you’re coming from. I think it’s healthy to have some down time

while, because living in each other’s pockets might put strain on your relationship. Especially if you’re finding all the change stressful, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to some alone time. Some of you may be in the unfortunate scenario where you and your partner have been offered postgraduate opportunities in different places. You might worry and think ‘what if we don’t stay together?’. While living apart from each other might seem like a daunting prospect, it is only hard if you make it that way. Hopefully, a long-distance relationship isn’t part of your long-term plan,

Be open minded about this new chapter in your life. Source: Vladimir Kudinov (via Unsplash)

and you can plan for your future together while you’re apart. Whether you spend a year apart to get your Masters, or to complete a 3-month internship, you’ll be able to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel. If you’re far away from each other, try to commit to a regular phone call, where you can stay in the loop of each other’s lives and stay connected. The distance might not feel so frightening when you can talk to each other properly one-on-one and comfort one another. You can still support each other from afar and maintain a happy and healthy relationship, even hundreds of miles away. In reflection of what I’ve discussed, whatever path you are your partner choose after university, the key to maintaining a strong bond is communication and understanding. It’s highly natural that you’ll experience small arguments or upsets as you get used to a new chapter of your life, but talk through your issues, and really listen to each other. Be each other’s support and you will become a stronger couple.

How to be successful at a job interview

by Kaiya Simon

‘If you’re finding all the changes stressful or intense, don’t hesitate to treat yourself to some time alone.’

re you heading into the world of work after university? Are you applying for your first ever job? Are you applying for a graduate scheme? This article will help you successfully prepare and give you the confidence to enter the interview stage of this process. Before going into your interview, take the time to learn about the industry or business you are interviewing for. Conducting company research and gathering background information about your employer is vital as they will expect you to know things about them and why you will fit in. Make sure you are prepared for questions like “What do you know about this company?” and “Why would you like to work here?”. The next step towards a successful interview is practicing beforehand. It is good to look over questions, buzzwords and facts so you have an idea about what to discuss whilst you’re in the interview. You can do this with a friend or a family member and ask for their honest feedback. Another option is to record your responses so you can see how you’ve answered the questions, whether you use the right etiquette and appropriate body language. You must also prepare for the dif-

ferent types of interviews you might have. In my first interview I didn’t know what to expect but ended up in a group interview where we had the chance to discuss answers and work as a team. Other types of interviews include phone or video interviews, out of office interviews or individual interviews. Whichever the case, you need to stand out. You should also dress for success at an interview and decide what to wear beforehand. Your first impression is very important therefore you need to look professional and appropriate for the type of environment you will be in. Alongside this you will need to make a list of what to bring and what not to bring along to the interview. This would usually include an extra copy of your CV and a pen and notepad to take notes. Doing this shows that you’re genuinely interested in learning and about the company in general. Also remember to introduce yourself and include a handshake to make a good impression. Avoiding common mistakes such as arriving late, carrying a drink around, having your phone on loud and not paying attention is essential. These things are unprofessional and will distract you from focusing on the task at hand, which is to sell

The secret to success: Smile through the nerves, you’ve got this. Source: rawpixel (via Unsplash) your strengths and convince them why you should be employed by the company. Most importantly, remember to stay calm and avoid stress on the day of your interview. Of course, being nervous is natural and is also a good thing as it shows that you care about what you’re doing, but you can’t let the nerves take over whilst you are in the room. Make sure you arrive 15 minutes early, use the bathroom beforehand and remember that this

will be around one hour of your life that you’re well prepared for. Remember to take time before you give an answer and that it is okay to ask the employer to repeat the questions. Overall, looking the part, acting professionally, practicing and doing your research is the best preparation for an interview. If it doesn’t go well, you will have had the experience of what it’s like and gained some confidence in preparation for the future.

CYNGOR

My road to self confidence

It’s all about recognising your strengths

by Imogen Kilner

ad I seen the pitch for this article three years ago, I would have laughed in your face and crawled back into the anti-social haven of my bedroom. I spent my teenage years expecting highly of myself in comparison to my peers, resulting in me losing my own voice and selfesteem because I was too focused on the lives around me. Typical teenager, of course, but mixed in with anxiety made it a roller coaster of fun. Starting university was step one in my journey to self-confidence. I was just a small town girl living in a lonely world who took the midnight (morning) train (car ride) to a big city, something way out of my comfort zone. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into, and I was desperate to start afresh with my surroundings, view of life, and view of myself. It was time for a new and improved version of me (which, spoiler, was not the best motive

‘Starting university was step one of my journey to selfconfidence’ for me). I achieved just that in first year. I lost sight of myself because I was too busy

Embracing the natural, magical mess you are. Source: Jordan Donaldson (via Unsplash) making new friends, drinking, partying, dressing up. However, first year me was never, ever a regret. She needed to come out of her shell. She needed her time to have fun and not be bogged down with work. She wore skimpy clothes and dresses and heels and em-

braced her body for what it was. And she loved it. I refer to my first year self as ‘she’ because, to be quite honest, ‘she’ wasn’t me. Second year me was very different in comparison. All of the work that first year me did on body confidence was

thrown out of the window. My mental health was not at its best in second year, with no rational explanation, which resulted in my self-confidence plummeting to the ground. After being on the dating scene for a year or so, I realised that I was desperately trying to find the confidence that I needed in myself in the presence of another person. I could not be further from the truth. And so another reboot of myself occurred, and I was single for a whole year. If you are struggling with self-confidence, or if you feel you are losing yourself, try being alone for a while, and I mean cold-turkey single. I spent that year working really hard on respecting my head, my body, and my voice. Keep your friends close to you and focus your energy on them. It was difficult, absolutely, but undeniably necessary. Eventually it got to a point where I didn’t even look at another person romantically, and it was wonderful. I came back to me. In fact, I came back to myself with such force that my confidence led me to fall back in love with myself again. I’m a big believer of wearing whatever I want, because I can, and this was only proven during the heat wave/world cup, where I went to the pub in a skirt, bralette and a light shirt. I actually felt really powerful. If I were to give advice to someone who is lacking in confidence, my biggest tip would be fake it till you make it. Pretend that you exude confidence and kindness and it will come naturally to you. I mention kindness because a big part of confidence is the ability to make everyone around you feel

safe and welcome, and in return they will feed off your energy and replicate

‘Pretend that you exude confidence and kindness and it will come naturally to you’ it themselves. There’s a line between cockiness and confidence, and the line is kindness. Another tip, whilst being fairly materialistic, is to wear clothes that make you feel amazing! For me, I feel most confident in mom jeans, DMs and a baggy vintage shirt. I’m delving into bright colours at the moment too and enjoying it a lot. Whilst wearing these clothes, wack on a playlist that makes you feel really cool. When I’m getting ready for a night out I like to listen to girl power anthems to put me in the mood. Also, and I cannot stress this enough, recognise your strengths and be proud of them. You got into university for a reason. Fall in love with your subject and your hobbies and allow yourself to be proud of what you are good at. Self-confidence is a tricky yet achievable milestone for any human. I like to think that confidence is all about the journey, and not the destination. In my journey I discovered my wit and excessive pun-usage is actually quite hilarious. I discovered that my body is

Staying SMART

Balancing your workload alongside anxiety by Boadicea Dowd

ttending university means that there is a constant pressure to succeed and this comes from our own desire to do well, as well as from friends and family. The competitive nature of academia can make it difficult to manage your workload and still enjoy university life but there are ways to make to strike a balance. Maintaining a healthy well being is important, especially as one in four students struggle with mental health (yougov. co.uk). It starts with choosing the right goals. Make sure they are SMART; Specific, Measurable, Agreed upon, Realistic and Time-based (projectsmart.co.uk). The goals should be big enough to be considered an achievement, but small enough so you can appreciate the completion of minor tasks. They should also be achievable in your allotted time frame, there is no point in cutting yourself short. If you are unsure about the length of a task, give yourself an extra day to make sure it can be finished. By following these

SMART goals then you can relieve the constant pressure of a never ending workload and look back at your achievements. This SMART idea can also be applied to time spent not working. Make sure you have planned something fun for the time that you spend not working so that you and your brain can rest. Think about whether you want to spend this time alone relaxing or out socialising, but either way make sure it is something that you want to do and not something you feel you should be doing. If you are a debating a night in watching Netflix over going to YOLO Wednesday, consider the time taken by both, as the hangover from the latter will take a lot longer to recover from and reduce your productivity the next day. This does not mean that you shouldn’t go out though, sometimes spending time with friends can help refresh your perspective. However you choose to spend your free time, just check in to see if what you pick is SMART. Part of being SMART includes eating healthy and getting your heart

rate up. Regularly exercising can reduce anxiety levels by 20% (sciencedaily.com) whether that be walking short distances rather than using public transport or playing in a team sport like netball or rugby. Personally, focusing on stress helps me get through my run, which just leaves me refreshed when I sit down to work again. Any small changes will make a difference, but you will only see if you try it. Do not compare yourself to others, what is SMART for you, may not be for everyone else. Everyone has their own goals which they should be proud of. Sharing these goals could make some seem minuscule and put people down for not achieving the same as everyone else. Stay in your lane. Finally, the most important thing you can do when it comes to pressure is to keep an eye on yourself. Keep up with your personal goals, but if you can feel your anxiety building up, do not force yourself. Take a break, even if it is just getting up to make a cup of tea or chatting with your housemates. Whatever

Loving yourself through the anxiety. Source : Fernando Cferdo (via Unsplash)

you do, always talk about how you feel with someone you feel comfortable with. Whether it is your friend or tutor, there will always be someone who feels the sameway or wants

to listen. We all want to do our best, whether it’s for university or a job, but it is not worth sacrificing our mental health, so stay SMART and stay in your lane.

COLUMN

Saunders’ Corner Sam Saunders

Images: Language learning isn’t just restricted to the classroom or textbooks (Main via Pexels, Top Right via Max Pixel)

Language Learning Tips

How to consolidate your skills outside of the classroom

ddly, and by no means as part of some coordinated effort, we have a language theme running through this week’s paper, with my column, Column Road, Comment and Taf Od all running pieces about languages that relate to their situation in the UK. That’s (fortunately) not what this is about. I was inspired to share this column with the world due to some tips I was giving to a friend last Monday, as her questions related to how I keep up my language skills now that I’m back in the UK. Obviously it’s more difficult, when you’re not exposed to the language on a daily basis anymore but I’ve got it easier than most, because it’s actually part of my course. So that’s what I’ll be dealing with in this column, whether you’re a lifelong linguist, or just someone who is seeking to keep up their skills after a languages for all class, then there will be something for you here. Now I’ll try not to use too many, but a lot of my examples of podcasts or programmes will be French based, as that’s the language I’m working with at the moment. Firstly, if you’re not already taking weekly (or more frequent) language classes, then you should be! Exercising your brain by reading, writing and speaking your language of choice is the best way to improve your skills, and the classroom environment is perfect for this, as you have the free-

dom to make mistakes and have any errors corrected by a native speaker. At Cardiff University, ‘Languages For All’ is the best way to do this, and if you’re au fait with the school of modern languages, it might be possible to join extra conversation classes with Erasmus students; it’s definitely worth asking. Either way, ‘Languages For All is an excellent way to keep your language skills fresh, as they offer wellrounded courses with teachers chosen by the MLANG school. However, the majority of you reading this will already have some lan-

It doesn’t have to be a really dry topic, like current affairs, Brexit or le grand debat national

guage skills, and ‘Languages For All’ is a virtual certainty for people who want to keep up these up. Consequently, there’s some other activities that will help maintain your skills, and they can be done without another person! You’ll need to focus on listening skills first, and one of the best ways to improve these is to find a podcast or radio show that you like in your target

language and make it a daily/weekly habit to listen to it. As well as improving your oral comprehension skills, this will improve your vocabulary and give you the French/German/Spanish perspective on discussing politics or sport, for example. It doesn’t have to be a really dry topic, like current affairs, Brexit or le grand debat national, it can literally be anything, preferably something that interests you, as you’ll be more inclined to listen to it that way. I myself listen to a weekly podcast from l’equipe, the French sports newspaper, as well as occasionally listening to a football podcast from Radio France Internationale. I’ve also begun to get into a podcast called le Nouvel Esprit Public, which deals with some thornier political issues. As I’ve said, picking something that you like is crucial, as those sports podcasts taught me heaps of new vocabulary for goals, tries and hooker that I wouldn’t have otherwise encountered, and I’m now fascinated to get away from an Anglo centric view of things; hearing the opinions of French journalists during both the World Cup and on their rugby team during the opening two rounds of the Six Nations has been fascinating. A way of continuing to develop both your listening skills and gaining knowledge of French culture is to watch as many French or Franco-

phone television shows or films as you can. The usual recommendations, such as Amelie, Les Untouchables and Les Choristes are there for a reason, they’re great and are well worth a watch, especially before the unnecessary Hollywood remake of Les Intouchables comes out. There’s quite a few French TV shows on Netflix and other streaming platforms and there are several DVDs you can borrow from the library, with all languages catered for. My personal preference

My personal preference is to watch things with French subtitles on, mostly because I still find it difficult is to watch things with the foreign language subtitles on, mostly because I still find it difficult to keep up with exactly what’s going on without them. I don’t think this should be viewed as a bad thing, you don’t watch things in a foreign language very often, and your range of vocabulary as well as your reading and comprehension skills will still be enhanced. If TV shows and

films aren’t really your thing, subscribe to some YouTubers who upload videos in your target language, even if you have to put the subtitles on, because an exercise such as this will allow you to learn plenty of slang; an essential part of adapting your register to the scenario. For French, Le Monde’s YouTube channel upload videos on every topic imaginable: current affairs, economics and historical issues. Reading, another cornerstone of language, is relatively painless to improve if you commit to doing a little bit every day. As with finding things to watch or listen to, it’s imperative that you find something that you’re interested in reading about and/or gaining a new perspective on. I read a lot of sports news and current affairs in French, which has developed my vocabulary and reading skills immensely. It’s also been excellent for gaining an insight into French reporting of Brexit, as well as what’s important to French readers. For example, stories from former French colonies have a lot more presence than they would in the UK. So it’s all about picking something that interests or intrigues you. Anyway, that’s all I have to say on how to keep improving your language skills, I hope that all of my advice is useful and I have to give a shoutout to Maisie Marston for providing me with the idea. See you all next week.

Classic Cardiff University T-Shirts*

2 FOR £12 OR 3 FOR £15 *Offer to be redeemed in store only between 11th - 29th March 2019. Offer valid on all Classic Cardiff University T-Shirts priced £7.99*

GWYDDONIAETH

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/science

Co-location of science schools in Transforming Cardiff “Direction of travel” aims to use space more efficiently

Saving Space: Outlined in the document are options for partially or totally co-locating the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences and the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. Sources: cardiff.ac.uk (Left), Wikimedia commons (Right)

To contact our science desk, drop us an email at science@gairrhydd.com

SCIENCE

by Jonathan Learmont

Your science desk Danny Brown Jonathan Learmont

he Way Forward strategy set £200m per annum of income from research grants and contracts by 2023 as a target, rising from the £105.9m reported last year. Another goal is to facilitate interdisciplinary and collaborative activity within the University and beyond in the context of research. By the first criteria alone, the Transforming Cardiff document approved by the Council has not offered any surprises, as increasing income, excellence and focus in key research areas has remained a priority. However, the manner collaboration is likely to be promoted in a selection of the science schools is more surprising, and is at least in part due to the university running a deficit.

Focus in key research areas has remained a priority Prominently featured in the report are plans to make changes to courses in the School of Healthcare Sciences and locating the school at a single facility at Heath Park. During the Q&A regarding Transforming Cardiff, Professor Gary Baxter, Pro-Vice Chancellor, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, made clear that any course changes were “not primar-

ily financially motivated” and would be determined by routine negotiations with the Welsh Government.

Co-location offers opportunities for more collaborative research As a result, the possibility courses including Occupational Therapy will be taught elsewhere after currently enrolled students have finished was not ruled out. Professor Baxter said, “I can’t say for certain that any programme that is delivered in Cardiff will continue to be […] in 2023”. According to a Cardiff University spokesperson, co-location of Eastgate House to Heath Park seeks to bring about the development of “inter-professional working” at the “earliest opportunity” as a result of issues raised by staff and students regarding split site working. Given the aim to increase research income across the university, recognising these issues will hopefully promote healthcare research output as a byproduct of greater collaboration in healthcare science. The possible co-location of the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences and the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences has raised concern regarding sharing space. Although Professor Bax-

ter acknowledged the “high performace” of undergraduate Optometry, the cost of delivering the course and large estate footprint has led to the suggestion in the document of allocating space more effectively between the two schools. A spokesman for the university said “It is important to stress that there are no plans for space sharing at present”, and any strategy “would likely require retention of the specialised optometry clinical teaching facility on the ground floor of the Maindy Road building”, which may suggest physical co-location is unlikely to be total when proposals are formalised. Among the touted benefits for research through co-location are more opportunities for inter-professional education, leading to more collaborative research and consequently higher research income by sharing facilities. It is uncertain whether due to the upcoming Post-18 Education and Funding Review, tuition fees will rise to up to £13,500 per academic year for STEM subjects because students are expected to have a higher future wages and courses are more expensive to deliver. If this is indeed part of the review, greater fee income could make current costs of the mentioned science schools more sustainable. Also not included in current forecasts which affects the cost of science degrees is the Diamond Review. Produced by the Welsh Government in 2016, it looked into higher education and student finance arrangements in Wales. Included is the proposal for universities to receive a top up of

£660 per student for one of several science subjects where the cost of teaching is above £9,000 for undergraduates. This would total £38m provided by the Higher Education Funding Council across Wales and implementation might mitigate the need for co-location as proposals are drawn up over the next few months. But on the effect of this review, Plaid Cymru Assembly Member Bethan Sayed said “there is […] no concrete guarantee that changes as a result of the Diamond Review will bring in the extra money that Universities increasingly need.”

Discussions between stakeholders will shape Transforming Cardif A clearer picture will emerge over the coming weeks and months as uncertainty over the reviews is reduced, and discussions between stakeholders of the university dictate the plans that form around Transforming Cardiff. Chief Financial Officer Rob Williams stated during the Q&A that for the university to be financially sustainable, such plans will cause “quite a lot of disruption to business as usual”. Scientific research and teaching at Cardiff University will certainly be part of those changes to business as usual.

GWYDDONIAETH 27

RemoveDEBRIS: Mission Accomplished

Turns out, organisms moved 2.1 billion years ago The first ever organism to be mobile lived 1.5 billion years earlier than we thought by Milo Moran

ncovered in rocks in Gabon, the fossils appear to be of an organism that could move through the mud in a slug-like manner in order to find food or shelter. Experts at Cardiff University say that this discovery raises new questions about the history of life as the fossil has been dated to 2.1 billion years ago, while our previous data indicated that locomotion began around 570 million years ago.

Future: What’s next for removeDEBRIS? Source: NASA by Holly Giles

e all know there is an issue with litter in our city, however, there is a much lesser known fact that there is an estimated 7,600 metric tons of litter orbiting Earth right now. More than sixty years of space activity has left this vast amount of rubbish in Earth’s orbit; including old rocket parts and fragments of broken satellites, all of which pose a serious risk to the international space station and working satellites in orbit. To address this issue the International Space Station has released a new type of debris-hunting satellite called the RemoveDEBRIS spacecraft. The technology has been developed by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd and the Surrey Space Centre, where this week the satellite tested out its harpoon for the first time. They released a video showing the satellite detonating a harpoon system which fires at 45 mph to skewer the target

by Holly Giles

piece of rubbish. The satellite harpooned the item and via an attached wire, to prevent it flying off into space, safely brought the item back. This is exciting progress as it validates the RemoveDEBRIS’ ability to deal with space junk.

There is an estimated 7600 metric tons of ‘space junk’ in orbit around There is a consortium of research currently going on in this area with ten partners across Europe and South Africa. In response to the recent results Guglielmo Aglietti, the director of the Surrey Space Centre for

the University of Surrey and principal investigator for RemoveDEBRIS, said: “This is RemoveDEBRIS’ most demanding experiment and the fact that it was a success is testament to all involved. The RemoveDEBRIS project provides strong evidence of what can be achieved with the power of collaboration – pooling together the experience across industry and the research field to achieve something truly remarkable”. So what’s next for RemoveDEBRIS? The satellite will now undergo its final test, looking into its fall into Earth. Professor Aglietti says after this, it’s “up to our partners in industry as to where they take these technologies”. With thousands of satellites expected to be launched in the next few years some serious clean-up is needed for our skies. Knowing scientists in Surrey are making such progress brings that clean-up away from a dream and closer to reality.

Cardiff University experts say this discovery raises questions about the history of life The new fossils were found in what was once the Francevillian inland Sea, a basin in modern-day Franceville, a city in Gabon, which was once a large body of water. Using X-ray imaging, alongside geometrical and chemical dating, scientists identified the new organism as being formed from several singlecelled organisms joining together into a larger multicellular organism. The chemical data indicates that the organism spent a lot of its time in oxygenated water, which means it was likely oxygen-dependent. The X-ray analysis revealed tubular burrowing tracks in the mud, which in-

dicate a simple way of moving that can also be seen in slugs. It’s a fact of life that people, animals, and every other living thing moves about. It’s very rare to find living things that can’t move; even barnacles are able to move about when they are young. So it’s a confusing thought that once, in the distant past, the only living things were sessile - that is to say they had no way of moving themselves about. They drifted in the water, pushed around by currents, but had no methods of self-propulsion, and scientists aren’t sure exactly why organisms evolved the ability to move. Prehistoric oceans were quite safe places to be, “devoid of predators” as science writer Robert Moor pointed out. Dr Ernest Fru, from the School of Earth and Ocean Studies at Cardiff University said that they may have developed movement to travel “in search of nutrients and oxygen that were produced by bacteria”. Dr Fru also points out that we don’t know if this was “a prelude to more perfected forms of locomotion”, i.e. the ancestor of all creatures that can move, or “an experiment that was cut short”, which would suggest that locomotion fell out of use until the more recent examples we know of. This would tie in with our knowledge that, about 2.1 billion years ago, the levels of atmospheric oxygen took a drastic drop, which might have killed off organisms like this one. Either way, this is a curious marker in the history of life on Earth, and it may be a long time before further data can be uncovered.

Coeliac disease found to cause ‘immunological scarring’

oeliac disease is a common digestive condition affecting 1% of the population. These people have an adverse reaction to gluten from the immune system mistaking gluten as a threat to the body and attacking it. This causes damage to the surface of the small intestines and disrupts the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. However, the effects of this condition may be more severe than previously thought, with researchers this week concluding that the immune cells in the bowels of sufferers are permanently replaced by new cells which promote inflammation. This immunological scarring encourages the disease to progress by making the bowels more prone to inflammation and could be a contributing factor to other chronic intestinal disorders which are common in coeliac sufferers.

Currently treatment for sufferers is a gluten free diet This new research comes from a collaboration of researchers from the University of Chicago, Cardiff University, Monash University, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre, Leiden University, University of Groningen, and Columbia University. From the School of Medicine at Cardiff University, Dr James McLaren, said: “In coeliac disease, T cells found in the bowel react to gluten and cause inflammation, which damages the lining of the bowel. Under normal circum-

stances, T cells have a protective role in the bowel and form a stable population. However, in celiac disease, they contribute to the inflammatory process, causing short-term symptoms and increasing the risk of developing certain types of bowel cancer. Our new study suggests that even though short-term symptoms, such as diarrhoea and abdominal pain, can be alleviated by removing gluten from the diet, long-term implications may remain, because ‘tissue-healing’ T cells in the bowel are permanently replaced by ‘proinflammatory’ T cells.” Currently, the main line of treatment is for sufferers to adopt a gluten-free diet for life and to take supplements for the first year of diagnosis. However, as stated by Dr James McLaren, this treatment may not be sufficient in combatting the long-term implications of the disease. This is the focus for the re-

Damaged: Coeliac disease affects 1 in 100 people. Source: Wikimedia Commons search team who aim to find more information on the immunological scarring and “pro-inflammatory T cells”. This knowledge will help inform treatment options and look

into targeting the cells; this could drastically increase the quality of life for coeliac sufferers and minimise their associated health complications.

SPORT

Season Preview

By Sam Saunders

ith three Britons lining up on this year's Formula 1 grid, Gair Rhydd Sport takes a look at the teams and the drviers ahead of the season opener in Melbourne on March 17. The Teams Alfa Romeo Drivers: Antonio Giovinazzi (ITA) & Kimi Raikkonen (FIN) The newly christened Alfa Romeo Racing (replacing the Sauber moniker) have plenty to look forward to this season, with progress being made in development as well as a driver line-up that mixes the inexperienced with the tried and tested. It was considered a strange move for Raikkonen to move back to Sauber, due to their relative lack of pace, but the Finn will put in consistent performances and give his all for the team, which will give Giovinazzi the chance to express himself in his first full season in Formula 1. The Italian, who impressed in Formula 2 in 2016, has to take this new chance to revive his racing career. Ferrari Drivers: Charles Leclerc (MCO) & Sebastian Vettel (DEU) Intrigue abounds for last season’s runners-up, who must surely atone for a catalogue of errors from 2018 that effectively handed Hamilton the title, despite the fact that the Ferrari was the fastest car. Vettel in particular will be under huge pressure, firstly from his arch-rival at Mercedes, and his new teammate, Charles Leclerc. The Monegasque, hugely impressive last year at Toro Rosso, has the chance to set the world alight at the front of the grid, and apply the same pressure on the German as Daniel Ricciardo did when he joined Red Bull in 2014. Off the track, Ferrari have replaced their technical director, so Mattia Binotto will be under pressure to deliver and stop Mercedes from claiming a sixth straight drivers’ and constructors’ championship double. The car looks good too, with a front wing design that looks different to the other teams, a difference that could be pivotal in a year of regulation change. Haas Drivers: Romain Grosjean (FRA) & Kevin Magnussen (DNK) Haas will aim to follow their excellent fifth-placed finish from last season with another strong showing. Operating on

a smaller budget than most of the other teams, Haas are one of the main beneficiaries of rules that allow teams to use ‘factory parts’ from other teams, with Ferrari providing everything but the chassis and the aerodynamic surfaces. Whatever the debate, rules are rules and Haas are profiting hugely from them. The team have stuck with the same driver line-up as last year, and it will be interesting to see if Grosjean and Magnussen can live up to the high standards set last year and push on in 2019. McLaren Drivers: Lando Norris (GBR) & Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) Despite the sixth-placed finish, last season was again very disappointing for one of F1’s greatest teams. Fernando Alonso managed to hide the deficiencies in a car that would ordinarily have been close to the back of the grid (as exhibited by teammate Stoffel Vandoorne). With Alonso’s retirement from F1 due to a lack of pace in the McLaren coming as a huge embarrassment to the team, new technical and managing directors have been brought in to try and stop the rot. An exciting new driver line-up holds huge promise if the technical side of things can be improved, as the quick but inconsistent Carlos Sainz Jr. has moved from Renault and Formula 2 runner-up Lando Norris joins for his rookie year in the sport; always a tantalising prospect. Mercedes Drivers: Valterri Bottas (FIN) & Lewis Hamilton (GBR)

ly gained extra performance from their engine. It all looks very ominous. Racing Point Drivers: Sergio Perez (MEX) & Lance Stroll (CAN)

Having been bought out by Lance Stroll’s billionaire father last season, Racing Point are looking for a fresh start with new financial backing. It will be beneficial to the team, but it is a shame for fans that the explosive rivalry between Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon has come to and end. Instead, we have Lance Stroll, clearly in the team due to the influence of his father, and not on the back of a disappointing season at Williams. Stroll’s progress here will be a good watch, as he is yet to really prove that he belongs at the top table, whilst Perez should be expected to kick on and establish himself as the team’s number one in the absence of Ocon. With the backing of Stroll Snr, Racing Point are finally allied to some sizable funds, hopefully they can get back to giving the top teams a run for their money. Red Bull Drivers: Pierre Gasly (FRA) & Max Verstappen (NLD) Red Bull’s long-mooted engine switch will finally kick in this season, with both Toro Rosso and Red Bull now using Honda engines instead of the astoundingly unreliable Renault engines of last season. Honda’s progress will be key to Red Bull’s hopes this season, as bridging the power gap to Mercedes and Ferrari has been the team’s Achilles heel since the advent of the turbo-hybrid era. They

Image Credits: Maps & Formula 1 Logo via Wikimedia Commons

return with a strong driver line-up, as they only need wed Max Verstappen to a reliable and powerful car to make a serious tilt for the championship, whilst Pierre Gasly has joined from Toro Rosso after an impressive season where he finished a notable fourth in Bahrain. One would expect Gasly to play second fiddle to Verstappen after Ricciardo’s departure, but time will tell.

Renault Drivers: Nico Hulkenburg (DEU) & Daniel Ricciardo (AUS) Daniel Ricciardo’s surprise decision to join Renault still seems bizarre at the start of this season. Maybe he saw that the writing was on the wall at Red Bull, as it became more Verstappen’s team after the Dutchman signed a new contract. Whatever the reason, it’s difficult to avoid a nagging sense that the Australian has traded down to a team where he has little chance of winning a race, even if they were best of the rest last season. For the team as a whole, another year of battling with the top teams, married with development of their car and engine seems in order, especially as their stated aim in 2016 was to be winning races within five years. Hulkenburg was impressive last season, and the dynamic between him and Ricciardo will be fascinating to watch throughout 2019. Toro Rosso Drivers: Alexander Albon (THA) & Daniil Kyvat (RUS) Toro Rosso, Red Bull’s junior team, have pulled together an interesting

Mercedes and Hamilton were in imperious form last year, winning both championships despite not having the fastest car, continuing their dominance in the turbo-hybrid era. If Hamilton gets anywhere near the form he was in last year, then he will be a difficult man to stop, whatever the challenge from Ferrari. The pressure is really on Valterri Bottas this year, as whilst he should have won at least two grand prix in 2018, finishing fifth in the championship winning car is not a good look, especially as his contract is up at the end of the season and Esteban Ocon has been promised a seat by team boss Toto Wolff in 2020, not to mention the array of British talent elsewhere. On the technical side of things, Mercedes will hope to have ironed out the tyre temperature issues that so hampered their two previous cars, whilst they also have reported-

2019 FIA Formula 1 World Championship Round 1 - Melbourne, Australia

Round 8 - France

Round 15 - Singapore

Round 2 - Bahrain

Round 9 - Austria

Round 16 - Sochi, Russia

Round 3 - Shanghai, China

Round 10 - Silverstone, UK

Round 17 - Suzuka, Japan

Round 4 - Baku, Azerbaijan

Round 11 - Hockenheim, Germany

Round 18 - Mexico City, Mexico

Round 5 - Barcelona, Spain

Round 12 - Budapest, Hungary

Round 19 - Austin, USA

Round 6 - Monaco

Round 13 - Spa, Belgium

Round 20 - Sao Paulo, Brazil

Round 7 - Montreal, Canada

Round 14 - Monza, Italy

Round 21 - Abu Dhabi

driver pairing ahead of the new season. Alexander Albon, who was born in Britain but races under a Thai passport, is an exciting prospect who will provide stiff competition for the returning Russian Daniil Kyvat. Effectively handed a second chance after being demoted from Red Bull for Verstappen in 2016, the pressure will be heaped on Kyvat to revive a career in danger of stalling. As in 2018 when they switched to Honda engines, Toro Rosso are widely expected to be a team where Red Bull can test various concepts and blood younger drivers. Williams Drivers: Robert Kubica (POL) & George Russell (GBR) We haven’t even started racing and Williams seem at least as in turmoil as they were last year, as manufacturing issues with their new car meant that they didn’t arrive for pre-season testing in Barcelona until Wednesday. Allied to rumours that their car will be around two seconds off the pace due to the new regulations, it looks likely that 2019 will be another season of pain for one of F1’s greatest names. However, the team have provided plenty of intrigue with their driver line-up for this season, as Robert Kubica returns to the grid for the first time since 2011, after a rallying accident seemed to have ended his racing career. He is partnered by rookie George Russell, one of three British drivers on the grid, who won the Formula 2 title last year and promises to be an exciting watch. Given Russell is also a Mercedes development driver, watching his progress should be fascinating.

Aaron Ramsey ninth in football's rich list

by George Willoughby

he ongoing saga regarding Aaron Ramsey’s footballing future came to an end after he put pen-topaper and signed a new deal with Italian giants Juventus. Ramsey, who has spent the last 11-years of his career at Arsenal, decided to end his stay at the Emirates and play his football under the highly touted Massimiliano Allegri. The transfer didn’t come without its scrutiny, as even despite Aaron Ramsey’s talent, fitness concerns have always plagued his progression into convincing the footballing community of his ability. His 2013/14 season at Arsenal was arguably his best, recording 10 goals and nine assists in just 23 appearances. He hasn’t quite been able to replicate the same form since, mainly because of recurring injuries and an Arsenal team that had to deal with Arsene Wenger’s inevitable departure. Under the management of new man Unai Emery, we have seen glimpses of Aaron Ramsey showcasing as to why he is deserving of his new lucrative deal. He has had the license to play as a boxto-box midfielder, a role in which he is comfortable and very dangerous for opposition defences. With the confirmation of the deal, the Welshmen joins fellow countrymen Gareth Bale in the world’s top-10 most paid footballers. The 28-year old will earn a total of £400,000 a week before tax, ranking him ninth, one place above French superstar Kylian Mbappe. Without going into too much detail,

Ramsey's new contract will earn him £57,142 per day, which equates to £4,761 per hour (Source: WalesOnline) Ramsey is now a part of an elite group, which is made even sweeter as he joins sixth most paid footballer, and Welshmen, Gareth Bale. Bale currently earns £350,000 per week after tax after he extended his deal at Real Madrid until 2022. It really is astonishing just how much these two players are earning, but regardless of their respective wages, from a Wales footballing perspective, it must be good to see two players making a name for themselves on the global stage. However, contracts of such magnitude don't come without the added pressure to perform. This is what we're currently seeing with Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean is drastically underperforming, made worse by the fact he is the Premier League's highest earner. The same pressures will apply to Aaron Ramsey. Without a doubt he will be well aware of the fact that being offered such a wage requires repayment. Performances on the pitch will certainly make inroads in winning over the Juventus faithful who will expecting the 28year old to make an immediate impact. Whatever the outcome of his move, Ramsey should be be proud to be rated so highly. It's now down to him to show the world just how good he is, and why he is deserving of this new deal which places him amongst the highest paid players in world football.

2019 Lionel Messi £7.2 Million

Cristiano Ronaldo £4.13 Million

Antoine Griezmann £2.9 Million Neymar

£2.69 Million

Top-10 Most Paid Footballers (Monthly) Gareth Bale

£2.5 Million

Phillippe Coutinho £7.2 Million Alexis Sanchez

£2 Million

Aaron Ramsey £1.73 Million

Luis Suarez

Kylian Mbappe

£2.5 Million

£1.52 Million

Devils flying high in Elite League

by John Jones

ardiff Devils are firmly locked in a two-horse race with Belfast Giants at the top of the Elite League after a hugely impressive start to the calendar year. Despite trailing narrowly to their Northern Irish rivals at Christmas, and exchanging positions ever since, the Devils are now three points clear, with a game in hand, at the time of writing. Andrew Lord’s side, named as BBC Sport Wales’ Team of the Year in December, have been in prolific form, winning 12 of their first 15 matches in 2019, and recording nine consecutive victories throughout January. A late Drew Schiestel rocket saw the Devils move top with victory over Guildford Flames on New Year’s Day, before they continued their streak with confident wins over Manchester Storm, Glasgow Clan, Nottingham Panthers, and a 6-0 drubbing of Fife Flyers. An epic weekend double header against the Giants, then also unbeaten in the league in the New Year, posed the biggest threat to Cardiff’s flawless form. However, in front of a capacity crowd at the Viola Stadium across both nights, the Devils emerged triumphant from the weekend with two convincing wins. Despite falling early in the first game through a Colin Shields goal, the Devils struck twice through Mike Hedden and Layne Ulmer to enter the final period with

a 2-1 lead. Whilst the Giants threatened a late comeback, goals from Gleason Fournier and Sean Bentivoglio saw Cardiff emerge with a 4-2 victory, as keeper Ben Bowns put in a Man of the Match performance, saving 27 of the 29 shots he faced. A day later, it only got better for the Devils, as they blew away the Giants in the opening period, scoring three times in just over a minute. Just nine seconds after Mark Richardson (playing in his 800th game for the Devils) opened the scoring, Matt Pope doubled the lead with a smartly taken goal, before Bryce Reddick grabbed a fortunate third a minute later. A hard-fought second period saw the Giants close the gap to one, but the Devils did not crumble, with final period strikes from Evan Mosey and Joey Martin ensuring a 5-2 win, and a spectacular double over the Northern Irish outfit. The triumphant weekend meant that the Devils’ lead over the second-placed Giants stretched to a comfortable nine points, but, despite a midweek win over Sheffield Steelers, two stumbling blocks awaited Andrew Lord’s side. In their final game of January, the Devils made the trip to Nottingham to take on the Panthers, a team they had defeated 5-4 at home less than two weeks earlier. A competitive contest saw the deadlock only broken in the second period, with Bentivoglio replying instantly to Jon

Rheault’s opener. Things came to the boil in a fiery final period when Panthers defenceman, Jaynen Rissling, delivered a brutal knockout to Mosey with an illegal check to the head that left him sprawled on the ice, and put him out of the game. Whilst Rissling rightly received a retrospective six-game ban, a similar threematch order was handed to the Devils’ Layne Ulmer, who left the bench to help his injured teammate, before starting an altercation with the Nottingham player. To make matters worse, a late rocket from the Panthers’ Luke Pither, sealed a 2-1 victory for his team, and handed the Devils their first loss of the calendar year. There was similar disappointment a week later, as a misfiring Devils side came out on the wrong side of a 3-1 scoreline against Manchester Storm.

Although frustration was clearly later taken out on the Sheffield Steelers and Coventry Blaze in respective 7-3 and 6-5 victories, a 4-3 defeat to Guildford Flames proved that the Devils have lost the consistency they enjoyed in January – despite still topping the table, they are sitting far less comfortably than they were. At the time of writing, the Devils’ next two matches could be season-defining, as they once again face the pursuing Belfast Giants. Whilst the Giants have the home advantage, they will also likely be distracted by their upcoming Challenge Cup Final clash against the Flames, meaning that there is certainly everything to play for. As Andrew Lord and his team know, if they are to successfully rebuild their lead, and defend their Elite League title, nothing but two wins from two will suffice.

SPORT CHWARAEON

CHWARAEON

To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.com

Your sport desk Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Jack Vavasour George Willoughby Devils finding the winning formula: Source: Ben Salter (via Flickr)

sport@gairrhydd.com

SPORT

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/sport

Cardiff University Futsal team reach BUCS knockout stages

Blues performances improving by Sion Ford

aturday evening saw the Blues fall once again to the Glasgow Warriors, but if that performance was anything to go by, there are a lot more positives to take away than from previous encounters. The Blues will rue a sloppy defensive start, as they conceded three tries in a short space of time after starting strongly. An early score for Aled Summerhill, one of the form players for the region during this inconsistent season, had things looking promising for the home side. The return of fly-half Jarrod Evans had a visible impact on the Cardiff side’s fortunes with ball in hand. After three minutes, a break from the young stand-off lead to a burst from centre Harri Millard, whose kick was gathered by Summerhill to dot down. As a punter you couldn’t have asked for a much more entertaining opening thirty, as Glasgow responded with three scores of their own. Centres Nick Grigg and Stafford McDowall took their opportunities and capitalized on some absentee defending from the Blues. Peter Horne, slotting in at fly-half, also crossed the line and with his two penalties extended Glasgow’s lead to 24-7. While the scoreboard was stacked in Glasgow’s favour, it felt like they had just taken better care of their opportunities than the Blues. Both teams were intent on running any loose kicks back, and it was from one of these runs by Matthew Morgan that Summerhill was able to go over for his second, taking the score up to 24-14 at the half-time whistle. It was the Blues who started the second half the strongest, with the gargantuan winger Owen Lane crossing for his fifth try in four games. With the scoreline balanced at 24-22, following a penalty from Evans, it appeared as though the game was there for the taking. And so it was, except that as has happened every time these two sides have met this season, it would be Glasgow that would take the opportunity. Two scores, from Nick Frisby and Tevita Tameilau, saw Glasgow extend their lead to 16 points. This inability for the Blues to capitalise on getting back into games will be an area of concern for John Mulvihill, but credit to the Blues - who lost a leader in Josh Turnbull to injury before half-time - they came back. A late flurry from the home side saw Summerhill cross for his first hattrick for the region, before substitute Garyn Smith benefited from Evans’ kick behind the defensive line. With only a couple of minutes to go, the Blues fought to take the lead back from the Warriors, but it wasn’t to be and the game finished 38-34 to the away side. With the Ospreys being sunk 8-0 at home by Ulster, this offered the Blues a golden opportunity to consolidate their league position - both sides now sit on 38 points. Their next game is a trip to the vacuous Murrayfield, and they will need to steel themselves if they’re to come away from Edinburgh with a win.

We spoke to Ryan Dabbs ahead of the BUCS Futsal Championships by Reece Chambers

ardiff University Men's Futsal team finished second in the Premier South division after an impressive 8-4 away win against Bournemouth on February 17. A comfortable away win against competitive opposition in Bournemouth will give the side good hope of carrying their success onto the knockout championship which starts in March. In the previous two seasons, Cardiff have reached the final and faced Loughborough on both occasions. First, in the 2016/17 season, beating the Midlands-based University on penalties before a 3-0 defeat in last season's BUCS Futsal Championship Final. After a Premier South campaign that has seen Cardiff finish in second below Hertfordshire, they may well have to face Loughborough before the final in this Championship. Ahead of the upcoming BUCS Futsal Championships, in-form second year player, Ryan Dabbs, wants his side to make up for some missed opportunities in the Premier South campaign. "It’s been a good season all in all. Looking back it’s quite disappointing we didn’t win the league because we

drew three games in a row where we would’ve ideally won at least one of them, meaning we would’ve won the league. "This season's success has been more down to the experience we have in the team, because most of us have played together for two years now which has stood us in good stead," said Dabbs. The midfielder also paid testament to the side's strong finish to the season after an impressive away win against Bournemouth.

"Last Sunday against Bournemouth was definitely the highlight of our season" "We went there missing a few players and had no manager so was an extremely good result." On a personal level, Dabbs has contributed to the team with 16 goals in 10 matches during the Premier South season.. "It’s been really good contributing

Robertson wins first Welsh Open title

by Jack Vavasour

t has been 20 years since a Welshman won this tournament, meaning that it has gone to ‘foreign’ hands every year in this Millennium. Nothing changed this year as Neil Robertson, Australia, claimed the trophy having faced Stuart Bingham of England in the final. The lack of Welsh success in this tournament is becoming a bit of a worry as there were no home players even in the quarter-finals. Mark Williams, the last man from Wales to win this Open, is the current World Champion and ranked 2nd in the World, yet was knocked out in the last 64. The final, between Robertson and Bingham, was a remarkable one. Having beaten Iranian Hossein Vafaei 6-0 in the semifinal, many thought that it would be another easy victory for Robertson, who was 7-3 up. In response to this, Bingham fought back ferociously, winning four

frames in a row. Sadly for the Englishman this was not enough, as Robertson claimed the final two frames to come out as the winner. The theme of the day was consistency as Robertson hit seven breaks of 50+, despite not hitting a century break. Bingham scored an impressive 102 break, being the highest of the final, yet struggled elsewhere with only two other breaks of 50+. This was Robertson’s third Welsh Open final, claiming only his second title. Ranked as eighth in the World, this will be considered as a major coup for Robertson, who at 37 should have many good years ahead of him at the top level. This win took his career earning in the region of £4m. Bingham, on the other hand, will be kicking himself after throwing away yet another final. Only his third Welsh Open final and his second defeat. He is outside of the top 10 and will be looking to improve his form in upcoming tournaments. All snooker fans and players alike will be looking forward to the Crucible's World Championships at the end of April and start of May. With only five tournaments before that date, time is running out for preparation. Robertson will be feeling confident and looking to add to his one World Championship after an impressive win in Cardiff.

to the goals this season. Hopefully I’ll be able to add a few more in the knockouts," said Dabbs of his impressive goalscoring record. With the Championships coming up in March, Dabbs has challenged his team to go one better than last year when they finished as runners up. "There's added motivation I’d say more so from last year, where we reached the final but unfortunately weren’t able to get the win. "Obviously we’d love to win it because we’ve reached the final the last two years, but that will be extremely difficult because we know we will probably have to play Loughborough away in the semis if we want to win." With a challenging run to the final ahead, Dabbs and his squad will be looking to continue their fine form they finished on in the Premier South campaign. The end to the Premier South campaign is one of the most impressive for the men's side in recent years and they will be hoping to take that form into the Championships. A final at St George's Park in May will be what the Cardiff squad aim to reach after a record over the last few seasons that has set the club's standards very high.

In Numbers: Cardiff's Futsal Season

Total goals

Biggest win

7-1

Win rate

60%

Three Welsh athletes selected for Team GB

by Jack Vavasour

hree Welsh athletes have been announced in the Great British squad for the Euros in Glasgow’s indoor competition next month. Melissa Courtney, Owen Smith and Joe Brier. Both Courtney and Smith earnt their places by winning silver medals at the British Indoor Championships. Courtney will face fierce competition from Laura Muir, who smashed the British indoor mile record with a ridiculously impressive time of 4:18.75. Courtney’s mile Personal Best is 4:23.15, and that was recorded two years ago. In 3000m Muir’s PB is 8:26.41 compared to Courtney’s 8:39.20. Courtney will struggle over this length compared to Muir, however, it will give her a challenge and an aim of someone to beat. Smith looks to be in good stead for the competition and will be hoping to push for a medal, having run personal best times in both his heat and in the final, at the British Indoor Championship. He will be aided in the 4x400 by fellow Welshman Brier. Smith, who runs for AAC Cardiff, will be hoping to go one better than he did in the British Indoor Championships, having frustrated himself with a silver. He just missed out on Gold, and with his recording of two new personal bests, he will be boosted by his good form which should propel him into the final of the competition.

All athletes will be looking to better their season bests and push for the podium when the competition begins on the 1st March. Courtney looks to be Wales’ most realistic option having won a medal in the 1500m at the Commonwealth Games last year. This was her first major competition medal, and is still looking to assert herself at the top level. She will have been disappointed not to be selected for the 1500m having won the bronze on the Gold Coast. Courtney will have a chance to prove herself over a slightly longer distance. Either way this will be a learning curve and she still has many years ahead of her in which to improve and adapt to a higher level. This British squad isn’t without its controversies though, with struggles over men’s 60m runners. Both runners who qualified on time, Reece Prescod and Chijindu Ujah, rejected their call ups to the squad. This meant that British Athletics had to back track a year to include Ojie Edoburun, who ran a fast enough qualifying time last year. Controversially, British Athletics refused to select double reigning champion, Richard Kilty. This is because British Athletics made the qualifying time 6.60, Kilty ran 6.63. In response to this the European Athletics Council invited Kilty to still participate, as they state that anyone who has run under 6.78 is eligible to compete.

To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.c

BUCS Highlights

CHWARAEON

A round-up of Cardiff University’s sporting action from the latest BUCS Wednesday of the season

CURFC's gritty return to winning form

by Laura Price

ollowing Cardiff University Rugby Club's loss to fifth place Bath, the boys were seeking a home win against Nottingham Trent. Both teams were out to win from the start, Cardiff faced a tough first 20 minutes putting up a strong defence. Although Cardiff were managing to hold off Trent's attacks, they conceded a penalty for a high tackle. Sustained pick and go pressure results in a try for Trent taking the score to 0-5. Cardiff knew they had to start piling on the pressure so not to let Trent run away with the lead. A successful penalty attempt from Cardiff pulled the score back to 3-5. The second half however started at 3-7 due to a dramatic half time score correction. Trent's 20th minute conver-

The fortress holds: Source: Cardiff University Rugby Club's Twitter

sion was confirmed in bizarre fashion. Cardiff clearly went into the second half to win, sustaining the pressure in their attack against Trent. A close range try from Freddie Barns put Cardiff on top, making the score 10-7. It was now up to Cardiff to stay on top until the close. Cardiff dug in to run down the clock

putting in a great effort to keep the final score as 10-7. Following the match Captain Tom Wilson said: "It was a really scrappy game for both teams and I think this was down to the importance of the match for both sides. Although it wasn't very pretty we managed to grind out the win in the end."

With four more BUCS points on the board, the club are finding their way back towards the middle of the table and further away from the relegation spot. This stands them in good stead ahead of their next fixture against Loughborough's first team, on Wednesday February 27.

Athlete of the Week

t the BUCS national finals Lizze never once let match nerves get to her and came away as BUCS champion, coming first in the women's individual event in a super close final against an incredibly strong field. In the team event she was the highest scoring shooter of the whole weekend with 392/400, one of only two people to manage a perfect 100/100 (for context: the 10 is about 1mm wide and about 22 metres away!). She carried the Rifle Club to its first ever medal in the team short range event, something which we could not have done without her. Throughout all of this she never stopped looking after the team, giving advice to other shooters and cheering us on all the way.

Best of the Rest Women's fencing

Shooting for gold: Rifle Club in action at BUCS Nationals: Source: Cardiff University Rifle Club

Rifle Club success at BUCS Nationals

by Ruth Hollway

fter narrowly coming 4th for two years in a row, Cardiff University Rifle Club finally medalled in the BUCS short range championships. The top eight teams from qualification entered the final which took place across February 16 and 17 in Sheffield. Miles Budden, Liam McGrath, Ruth Holloway, Lizze Gould, Jessica Powell and Daniel Crook made up Cardiff ’s A team, as well as this, Lizze and Jessica were also in the individual final, which the top 12 men, top 12 women and top 6 novices entered. In the final each shooter must shoot 40 shots each under timed conditions and the teams total score is used for the results. Liam and Daniel were the first to shoot, both keeping around their averages and giving the team a strong start. After

qualifying in 5th, we were now fighting for 4th place. Next up were Lizze and Ruth. A couple of wayward shots from Ruth gave the team some nerves but she picked it up by the end to shoot well.

Lizze stormed the competition, shooting a perfect 100/100 - the highest score of the entire weekend Lizze stormed the competition, shooting a perfect 100/100 - the highest score of the entire weekend with 392/400. For those who don’t know, the 10 on the target is just under 1mm wide, and sits 25 yards away (just

under 23 metres). The scores are updated every 20 shots and during Ruth and Lizze’s shoot we pulled 7 points ahead of Cambridge B into 3rd then fell back down into 4th by one point. The pressure was now on Miles and Jess to get that one extra point. Cambridge A and Edinburgh were very far ahead in 1st and 2nd but the fight for 3rd was on. Miles shot really well under the pressure of his first BUCS final. Jessica did really well to carry the team at the end with the second highest score from Cardiff of 383/400. Heading into the result announcement, Cardiff and Cambridge B's medal hopes hung in the balance. However, Cardiff managed to just beat Cambridge B into a medal position, the first time the club has won a team medal in the short range championships, a great moment for

the club. Day Two was the individual final, for which Lizze took the last qualification spot in 12th and Jessica qualified in 4th. After their triumphant Day One both girls were in good spirits for the final. Jess improved on the day before with 385/400 which left her in 7th, while Lizze smashed the competition for a second time, winning the individual with 390/400. It was a fantastic weekend for the club and the club's most successful result at the short range final. CURC have 3 teams entered in the Welsh indoor championships on the February 24, where the shooters are hoping to defend the title as Welsh Universities Champions. The next BUCS competition is the BUCS Long Range Championships the weekend before Varsity, where we hope to build on the medals we won in the competition last year.

Cardiff 5s 135-73 Birmingham 1s

Men's badminton Cardiff 1s 5-3 Gloucestershire 1s Women's squash Cardiff 1s 5-0 King's College 1s Your sport desk Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Jack Vavasour George Willoughby Laura Price sport@gairrhydd.com

sport

chwaraeon

Devils top EIHL - Page 29

BUCS Highlights Page 31

Izzy Webb: The third year Cardiff University student is “so pleased” to be back with the Welsh squad. Source: Cardiff University Sport

Webb ready for French encounters

Cardiff student named in Wales’ Women’s hockey squad for Test series by John Jones

ardiff University’s Izzy Webb spoke of her excitement after being selected for the senior Wales’ Women’s hockey squad for a three-match Test series against France later this month. The third year physiotherapy student from Cwmbran forms part of a 22-strong squad making the trip to Antibes, with Head Coach Kevin Johnson’s selection offering a combination of youth and experience. Despite only picking up a hockey stick for the first time aged 13, Webb has already enjoyed a successful playing career across South Wales. Encouraged by her teacher whilst at comprehensive school, Webb joined Gwent Hockey Club, where she remained for a few seasons, before later making a switch to Penarth Ladies at 16. After thriving at Penarth, the midfielder decided to try out for Swansea Spartans 1st XI, who represent Wales

in the EHL Conference West, and has featured regularly for the side for the past four seasons.

“If we believe in our processes and work hard for each other, as a team we stand a good chance” Webb’s talent was spotted early on by those in the national set-up, and she won her first Welsh cap against Scotland at just 16 years of age, following a remarkable rise from the Under-18 squad. Since then, the 20-year old has somewhat cemented her place in the squad, representing Wales at the European Hockey Championships and making the long list for last year’s Common-

wealth Games. The three match series against the French later this month is Wales’ first competitive fixture of the calendar year, and there is confidence amongst Johnson’s squad that they can repeat the emphatic 4-1 victory they secured when the two teams last met in 2016. “I am so pleased to be back in the full swing of Welsh training again,” said Webb. “I am excited to see the impact I can make on the squad against France. I want to take this opportunity to show how I’ve pushed to improve my fitness and earn my place in the squad”. “France are a good side, but I feel that we still have a good chance against them. We have new players in the squad [including Cwmbran’s Sara Rebecca Davies], so I’m excited to see what we can do”. Crucially, the French clashes will provide an opportunity for the Welsh squad to make important preparations ahead of the FIH Hockey Series Finals

in Valencia this summer. The Finals will see Wales take on some of the world’s strongest sides, with Italy, South Africa and world number seven Spain among their pool opponents. With a chance to play on the world stage at stake, Webb admits that competition for a place in the squad is high, but remains hopeful of securing a spot. “Honestly anything could happen” she said. “Your position in the squad is never set in stone as there’s always someone pushing for your place, but that’s what makes it competitive and makes you work harder”. “We have many training camps and matches coming up where it’s my chance to prove myself and earn the right to be there”. “Wales have performed well against other strong teams and, although we aren’t full time players, I feel that if we believe in our processes and work hard for each other, as a team we stand a good chance against them”.

Cardiff University Futsal reach BUCS Chmapionships by Reece Chambers

ardiff University Men’s Futsal team finished second in the Premier South division after an impressive 8-4 away win against Bournemouth on February 17. A comfortable away win against competitive opposition in Bournemouth will give the side good hope of carrying their success onto the knockout championship which starts in March. In the previous two seasons, Cardiff have reached the final and faced Loughborough on both occasions. Read: Page 30