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@KSU SECOND ISSUE APRIL 2013
@KSU APR 2013
ksu.org.mt
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lthough times have changed since the organization was founded, the aim of KSU remains unchanged. Today, over one hundred years later, our organization has gone through another transformation. Over the last few years, huge advances in technology have allowed KSU to do more with less, and we took the opportunity to set up online campaigns, social networks and our very own KSU Smart Phone Application. Our challenges may have been new, and in fact the instruments with which we had to meet them were new. But those values upon which our dedication for the student body depends on remain honesty and hard work. So much has happened in just a couple of months! We have worked hard on activities, events and initiatives such as the KSU Graduation Ball, Exam Halls & Invigilator Behaviour, KSU International Students’ Welcome Party, Voluntary Tutoring Service, KSU General Election Debates, KSU Green Gene Competition, KSU Culture Fund, KSU Research and Opportunity Fund, Shower Facilities, Multi – Faith Prayer Room, Second KE/KPS Seminar and much more!
Andrea A. Attard _ Public Relations Officer
We want you to be part of it!
EDIT ORIAL With our work slowly drawing to an end, the Annual General Meeting is next on KSU’s agenda. We want you to be part of it! It is really important that you as students contribute and participate in this general meeting as you can see what your counsel has done for the student body over the past year as well as make your voice heard! This meeting is open to both University of Malta and Junior College students.
_ Illustration and design by Matthew Spiteri
_ Published by KSU Student’s House University of Malta
@KSU APR 2013
Mario Cachia _ President
When asked to write a small piece for this edition, I was quite undecided where to go with it. A couple of important happenings have been going on at KSU during the past weeks and everything falls into its place within the greater picture. With the Annual General Meeting and elections behind the corner, one always looks back at the past year and analyses what went well and what could have been done better. In my personal case, I’m not only looking backing to the past 9 months, but to a whole 3-year journey full of exciting experiences that have surely changed me forever. I still remember my first days in KSU, still a newbie to this new world that was expecting me. Being my first experience in student activism, I was put directly on the big table, and immediately realised that the task at hand was not simple. Through all the events organised in my first year in KSU within the Culture & Entertainment Office, I managed to gather some valuable experience and insight into how KSU operates and ultimately made a couple of successful events that students attended and enjoyed. The following years as Secretary General and President respectively made realise, to a much wider extent, the importance of student representation, and how much we should cherish it and make it stronger. ksu.org.mt
Being the voice of 13,000 students is no easy task, and one needs to be all the time aware of what are students’ needs and wants. As KSU we have been trying our best to become as accessible as possible to all the students at University. Embracing social media has been our main link with students, and one can fairly say this had a very positive impact on the twoway communication between students and the council. Throughout the years in KSU I have had an infinite number of occasions and experience that I will surely cherish forever. Being an active student gives you the opportunity to live the campus life in a much more holistic way. Student activism involves hard work, dedication and many sacrifices, but the priceless feeling of having made a difference to someone’s life makes it all worth it.
Be it a successful soldout event or spending a couple of hours hearing a students academic problem, these are the things that we face daily and which give us that much needed morale boost to continue doing so. With only a few days left before my long tenure in KSU will be over, I would sincerely like to invite you all to get involved. Many opportunities are available, starting from the vast amount of student organisations on Campus, and continuing to a very wide range of opportunities, campaigns and events that KSU organises. I can assure you that you will not regret any second of it! Finally I would like to thank all those with whom I’ve worked with throughout the past three years. I cannot possibly name everyone since it would surely take me a couple of pages, and I don’t want to risk leaving anyone out. But you all know who you are, and from the bottom of my heart…thankyou!
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@KSU APR 2013
Thomas Bugeja _ Secretary General _THE KSU
RESEARCH AND_
OPPORTUNITY FUND As the University Students’ Council and the National Students’ Union, KSU’s work, its aims, and its goals have always been to promote and further the opportunities for students, to ensure that every student is given the chance and opportunity to expand his horizons and to further his prospects irrespective of one’s financial standing or background.
As some of you might not know, KSU is a financially independent entity which receives no fixed funding from the University of Malta or from the government, and is therefore self-sufficient when it comes to its huge running costs. Having said that, KSU is a non-profit organization, and this means that any surplus available, made through our events, initiatives or sponsorship agreements are invested in the students, which KSU represents. For this reason, throughout the past years, KSU has created a number of funds which allocate grants out of KSU’s money, and which aim to provide financial assistance to causes or initiatives which need it most. Throughout the previous KSU term, the KSU Research and Resources Fund allocated a total of around 4,440 euro to 15 different students from a wide range of academic areas. The KSU Research and Resources Fund 2012 allocated grants to a number of University of Malta research initiatives which included; a PhD research project on offshore wind turbines, a conservation research visit to the Indonesian jungles, a research ksu.org.mt
expenses borne by a number of architecture students during work on their final theses and various others. This year, KSU has just launched the KSU Research and Opportunities Fund, to which KSU is allocating 10,000 euro. Such a fund shall be aiding two types of student initiatives. ‘Research’ is the first area covered by this fund and aims to fund students incurring expenses in their research at the University of Malta. The second area covered by this fund is ‘Opportunities’ and through such a fund, KSU aims to support students wishing to attend seminars, conferences or symposia (ideally of an academic nature) either locally or abroad. KSU believes
that participation in such events is highly beneficial for all students involved and serves to broaden one’s horizons both academically as well as personally. If you’re going through a costly research project or planning to attend a conference or seminar submit an application form now, and you might be allocated a grant to a maximum of 400 euro in cash for your project; visit ksu.org.mt for more details!
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@KSU APR 2013
John Gabarretta _ Education Commissioner Naomi Said _ Education Coordinator
REPRESEN THE IMPORTANCE OF STUDENT REPRESENTATION IN HIGHER EDUCATION_
Since 1901, the Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU), then known as the Comitato Permanente Universitario (CPU) has upheld one consistent aim: to represent students in whatever issues concern them, both on a national and international level. But just why is this such an important feature at our University, something which KSU has strived so hard to maintain throughout the years? ksu.org.mt
The European Students’ Union (ESU) puts this very elegantly in writing, in its publication called No Student Left Out, stating that: Students should have more impact in decision-making and governance of higher education, which must be a community of students and professors who are equally responsible for its quality. In effect, student representation is the only way in which students can continue to make their voice heard in administrative and educational choices being made in higher education. It is through
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_THERE TO
ENT
student representation that students can engage in discussion with academics over content and the methods of delivery, as well as contribute towards a constant exercise of quality assurance through feedback. Furthermore, student representative structures also create a bridge between staff and students in order to deliver ideas and concerns to both sides, in a bid to create a more harmonised culture of improvement and consistency in higher education. In light of this, it is useful to take a step back and review the current structures at the University of Malta which support student representation apart from KSU. The main existent framework is the officially-elected student representatives which actually enjoy legal recognition, not just within University of Malta regulations, but also in the Education Act – part of the national legislation. These student representatives are elected biannually for a two-year term through official elections organised by the Registrar’s Office. Student representatives are present on Senate, Council and boards for each Faculty, Institute, Centre and School. KSU has in fact spearheaded
significant gains in this area recently, by convincing both University authorities and Government to amend the Education Act to allow for increased student representation. Consequently, postgraduates have also been given a formal voice in representation, and are now offered exclusive vacancies along with the other representatives. You can read more about this development on the KSU Education Blog here: http://wp.me/p2GrVi-8 Beyond this, student representatives are also included in several boards of studies in various departments, and play a role in validating individual courses and programmes. There are also several committees such as the Programme Validation Committee or Library Committee which are often busy throughout the year in following up administrative work pertaining to courses and resources at University. Other structures, such as the Assessment Disciplinary Board, also involve student representatives in order to provide another perspective before final decisions are taken. All in all, it is clear that student representation ensures that changes at tertiary level are taken democratically and through consultation with the major stakeholders and recipients of such changes. The KSU Education Office is currently working hand-in-hand with current student representatives through the KSU Education Commission in order to produce a Student Rep Manual which seeks to provide a useful introduction to new representatives while instilling in them a sound sense of accountability. Moreover, the KSU Education Office will once again be spearheading the promotion for the next round of student representative elections, tentatively planned for the beginning of May.
@KSU APR 2013
Timmy Borg Olivier _ International Officer Albert Camilleri _ International Coordinator
2003-
2013
10 years since the signing of the EU Accession Treaty_
Next year the country will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary since joining the European Union. So why are we writing about it now? The answer is easy. Our University has long enjoyed the benefits of EU programmes, even before officially becoming members, particularly after Malta signed the EU Accession Treaty in 2003. This time ten years ago, Malta was in the midst of a hardfought campaign. The referendum on membership on the 8th of March 2003 saw the highest turnout but the lowest support in favour of joining the EU when compared to the nine countries that held referendums for joining the EU in 2003. Ten years later, it is great to see that the largest political parties have embraced the EU and strive to achieve the best they can within such a forum. The University of Malta has tried its best to adapt itself in order to attain the most benefits on our membership. Ten years on, it is easy to take programmes such as ERASMUS for granted. There are tens of other exchange and education programmes which have continuously been successful, hosting foreign lecturers at our University and taking students to countries even outside the Union. ksu.org.mt
The EU has also provided the University with specific funding for a number of projects. The new IT Building which looks as though it is close to completion is a testament to this. All this is helps ensure the University remains autonomous, and ensures it remains one of the most respected institutions on our island. Signed on 16th April of 2003 in Athens, the Treaty of Accession finalised and paved the way to Malta’s entry to the EU, whilst outlining the many areas which the EU will seek to improve. These areas, such as energy, free
movement of persons, environment as well as education and training, are the backbone of Malta’s relationship with this Union. This 10 year journey will no doubt be celebrated next year. But before then, let us strive to; as students, lecturers and administration, make the best of our entry in the EU. This will not only improve our institution and ourselves, but it will ensure a successful membership with an ever-changing Union.
Zoe Farrugia Culture & Entertainment _Officer Ryan Grech Culture & Entertainment _Coordinator
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_THE KSU
STUDENTS’
FEST 2013_
One of the most exciting events on campus is back! KSU brings students together once again away from the long nights of notes, books, and stress for a spectacular show, Students Fest 2013. The Culture and Entertainment Office this year has gone back to its childhood roots. After the enticing and successful shows of the past years, this year’s Students’ Fest will follow previous years paw prints in being just as exciting and unique. Be Prepared for The Lion King with a twist! #LionKink follows the plot of the infamous The Lion King, putting a nostalgic smile on your face as you travel back to your childhood days of singing along with Timon and Pumba’s problem free
philosophy. Hundreds of university students are working hard to bring to you a fresh and original interpretation of one of Disney’s most enjoyable classical movies. We believe that Students Fest is one of the most awaited events set in our calendar, this yearly show gives students the opportunity to relax and explore their talents. It gives them the chance to interact with one another in a different setting from that of the usual lecture room, as well as meet students from a variety of different courses.
We invite you to join us for this breathtaking showcase of student talent and fun on Friday 12th, Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th April - tickets are available online at a price of €10.
@KSU APR 2013
AYEAR IN PICTURES_
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@KSU APR 2013
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@KSU APR 2013
Andrea A. Attard _ Public Relations Officer
_THE
KSU
MOBILE APP We have seen how rapidly the use of Mobile applications has been increasing; it’s a trend that has swept across the entire Smart phone industry. In light of this, it was a wonderful experience to launch one of the biggest KSU projects so far – The KSU Smart Phone Application.
If I had to personally pick one area in which KSU has drastically and constantly improved on, it would definitely be communication through Digital and Social Media. As you will notice shortly, our primary goal was to make the Mobile application as easy to control as possible. Even though
The Mobile Application is integrated with our social media networks and website to ensure that all information is kept up-to-date. ksu.org.mt
The following are the features of the KSU Smart Phone Application.
NEWS_
OPENING SCREEN_ Looking at the opening screen you can see that the application allows you to view the Campus Weather, latest Facebook Posts and Pictures.
it is simple to use, we made sure that its simplicity was matched by its aesthetic beauty, while fulfilling KSU’s branding guidelines. The main Idea behind it was for students to be even more connected to events, Activities, initiatives and services offered by KSU – literally any time on any day.
Another two features on the opening screen are the home button and the Share button. The home button will refresh the page, while the share button will allow you to share a picture, video, news item with your friends via Email, Twitter and Facebook.
In the News section one can read through a number of news items published by KSU. MAP_ I’m sure that most of you do actually get lost around campus. This shouldn’t be a problem anymore with this feature.
This Map was customized specifically for our University and all the areas at the University of Malta can be found. You can search for your faculty or institute from the search engine to quickly find its position on the map.
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SERVICES_
STIPENDS_
The services feature is a product of the newly established Digital Media Hub. Once logged in, one can easily input a complaint through the integrated system by typing the Study unit code, lecturer, subject and the message.
Most probably the stipends feature will be the most viewed page in the KSU application where students now will know the exact time of their upcoming stipends.
Students can also view and edit the Parking permit details and visit the Toga Rentals services.
CONTACT_
MULTIMEDIA_ Another feature is the multimedia section, where students can easily view photo albums and video uploads.
It’s not only a date, but a countdown!
Another important feature is the contact tab, where students can easily find a KSU executive member and contact the person directly, by Email, SMS and even by calling.
As you can see, contacting KSU has never been so easy with the KSU application. Going back to the opening screen, we can find all the information about the Logged in user by clicking here. And, last but not least we can find all the information about the developers of this magnificent app – NCODX where you could visit their website and/or contact them.
We are confident that this application can really change how students interact with KSU and opens up new possibilities.
Trade Enquiries VJ Salomone Marketing - Tel: 80072387
@KSU APR 2013
ksu.org.mt
Trade Enquiries VJ Salomone Marketing - Tel: 80072387
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@KSU APR 2013
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@KSU APR 2013
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@KSU APR 2013
Marie Claire Gatt _ Social Policy Commissioner Warren Sammut _ Social Policy Coordinator
STIPENDS
_Are they still a sustainable investment? There’s no need for much of an introduction; most Maltese students attending our University and postsecondary institutions receive a maintenance grant. But while most would shy away from questioning it, here at the Social Policy Office we wanted to ask whether stipends are still an economically sustainable expenditure. At the KE/KPS Seminar for student organisations last September, we asked economist, Mr Alfred Mifsud, and NCFHE Officer, Ms Christine Scholz, to give us their take on the topic. The €23 million projected in 2009 to be spent on stipends by 2020 have already been reached, with the student population in higher education increasing by 75% between the years 2000 and 2010. That being said, Mr Mifsud affirmed that the government’s expenditure on stipends is only half of what is spent on church schools and a mere 0.2% of the GDP. The real distinction to be emphasised is whether stipends are considered as a social service or an investment. ksu.org.mt
Taking the realities a typical Maltese student faces would pose a difficulty to justify stipends as a social service since such payments are to be given to those mostly in need, and students, or at least the great majority of them, would probably not categorise as such. However, seeing them as an investment in human resources is where our country’s wealth lies in the future. Ms Scholz added to this that the grants are sufficient enough to serve for any student to focus solely
on their studies rather than having to self-earn income whilst studying. If the same students to whom maintenance grant was distributed leave the country, possibly permanently, once finishing their studies, would the system still be considered as an investment? Forcing such individuals to stay in Malta would be against their fundamental human right to move freely. However, from experience, Mr Mifsud believes there’s a tendency for such
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S individuals to return to their country of origin with more talents and international experience, rendering a late benefit towards their country. It is rather difficult to monitor the way stipends are spent and some could argue that it would be more feasible to spend this money on the University’s infrastructure. The fact that this system serves as an incentive for students to continue studying, independent of their financial standing, seems to be beneficial in itself, eliminating what would otherwise be an elitist University.
Source NCHE EUROSTUDENT report - Social and Economic Conditions of Student Life in Malta
@KSU APR 2013
INVESTING IN YOUR FUTURE One of Malta’s most important economic pillars is undoubtedly the financial services industry, broadly encapsulating sectors such as banking, insurance, investment management and various other support functions such as tax advisory & assurance services, legal advisory and hedge fund administration.
which I am a member, to professionals who want to specialize further. Furthermore, Edinburgh Business School is renowned for offering the most flexible and popular international MBA in the world as per the Financial Times Online MBA programme listing 2013.
Whereas the financial crisis negatively impacted global finance hubs around the world, Malta’s financial services sector has weathered this calamity remarkably well.
I read for this degree on a distance learning basis, whilst working full-time with a German Pension Fund based in Malta.
Foreign investors are continuously choosing Malta as their preferred business partner and domicile of choice due to its relatively advantageous tax structure, its sound yet flexible regulatory framework and the high level of skills in business professionals working within the financial services industry. Throughout my seven year stint in the financial services industry, I have been actively involved in treasury management, hedge fund administration and auditing. Following my professional qualification in accountancy, I earned a certificate in investment management with the CFA Society of the UK and also a specialist postgraduate qualification. Edinburgh Business School’s Master of Science in Financial Management, awarded by HeriotWatt University, consolidated the solid finance and accountancy techniques I gained and developed throughout my previous studies in accountancy and investment management. The MSc provides an in-depth understanding of financial techniques and their application, and helps generate solutions to real business problems. My studies focused on Accounting, Corporate Governance, Credit Risk Management, Derivatives, Finance, Financial Risk Management, Mergers & Acquisitions, Practical History of Financial Markets and Quantitative Methods. I carried out this degree following the award of a STEPS Scholarship which was part-financed by the European Union through the European Social Fund. The reason why I chose the Edinburgh Business School MSc in Financial Management is because it is exclusively recommended by ‘The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants’ (ACCA), of ksu.org.mt
In order to ensure that success is continually achieved in this industry, we should invest in our education so that the country can nurture strong human resources. Careers in this industry depend upon a strong understanding of the fundamentals and dynamic nature of finance and investment behavior. Malta certainly needs business professionals with strong academic backgrounds and business acumen who are able to attract, develop and maintain foreign investments in such a way that it stands out as a preferred place to conduct business and successfully competes with peers within the European Union. Daniel is a Treasury Manager at Lufthansa Malta Pension Holding Ltd. In this role, Daniel is responsible for the management of short-term liquidity assets, foreign exchange risk and trading hedging derivatives, investment compliance, foreign taxation, financial risk management reporting and various ad hoc treasury projects. Daniel is a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and a certified public accountant.
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In an effort to introduce the concept of donating funds to the university, Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) recently presented a donation of €1,000 to the Research Innovation and Development Trust (RIDT) of the University of Malta. This money will go towards the university’s research activities. University rector Juanito Camilleri received the donation from KSU president Mario Cachia in the presence of a number of KSU members.
employees had at the university. By allocating a small amount of their income to their preferred research areas, these companies will be also investing in their own future,” he explained.
Prof. Camilleri said:
Mr Cachia said: “KSU deems that the University of Malta has to further enhance its role as a centre for research and innovation. We firmly believe that the university, as the highest academic institution in Malta, should continue in its endeavour to become a centre of excellence and knowledge.
and will encourage them to support the trust even by organising activities to raise funds for specific future research.” The RIDT was established at the university to bolster investment in research and development at a national level. As the university expands its sphere of research projects, it is increasingly becoming more reliant on patronage and sponsorships from businesses and private individuals. Further information on the RIDT can be obtained from www.ridt.org.mt.
“KSU shall venture to promote the objectives of the RIDT among the students it represents
Source: Timesofmalta.com
“KSU’s benevolent gesture goes well beyond the actual sum being donated. It represents the students’ commitment towards their university.” “We thank them for their efforts and would like to encourage everyone to help because without the financial support from public entities, private companies and individuals, we cannot sustain the investment for further research projects at the University of Malta.” “Nearly all commercial organisations in Malta today benefit from the studies and training their
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Warren Sammut _ Social Policy Coordinator
STUDENT ORGANISATIONS _ON CAMPUS
Organisations are the key to student life on a university campus. They are through what the student body claims its existence, its spirit, its vibrancy. University life is different from any other realm, and student societies are one of the reasons for this. On the University of Malta campus, this is also true. Student Societies are a first hand opportunity to learn skills that could be useful in the real world of work. One learns how to lead, one learns how to keep proper accounts, one learns how to organise, advertise and promote an event. Even if you know your degree’s theories and philosophies inside out, there are skills which you will not acquire from the cold classroom at 8 o’clock in the morning. While lectures and academic work are super imperative, and what after all makes us students, one should compliment this with extracurricular stuff which will only increase one’s knowledge. Hone your skills, and you’ll only thank yourself when you ace
that make-or-break interview some time in the near future. More importantly, feel satisfied when you work and represent for the benefit of and your peers. This is why KSU, as a student organisation itself, believes and supports its fellow societies, by hosting Organisations’ Days at the Quadrangle from March 18th till March 22nd. During this week, a number of student organisations will have a day where they can be present on campus and showcase their own events, their own possibilities and opportunities that they
offer to students. Stay tuned for a multitude of activities, from health-related to political based. Check your blood pressure or listen to the wisdom of an ambassador! Acquaint yourself with the work carried out by these thriving societies. You’re interested? That’s great, because they will be willing to recruit new people with fresh ideas, so do not hesitate to go for it!
@KSU APR 2013
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MONTHS OF KSU YOUR PRIORITIES. OUR WORK_
These are just a few things that we did throughout the past months. We hope this small timeline helps you understand better all the work than by KSU to improve your University experience.
JUNE
AUGUST
2012
PLANNING WEEKEND_ LOCKERS_ SOCIAL POLICY MEETINGS_ EDUCATION COMMISSION MEETINGS_ NSTS BOARD MEETINGS_
2012
_REACTION TO EDUCATION ACT REFORM _LAW COURSE REFORM NEGOTIATIONS _REACTION TO DOM MINTOFF’S DEATH _OFFICIAL MEETING WITH DR. JOSEPH MUSCAT
JULY
2012
_EDUCATION BLOGS
_REACTION TO NAO REPORT
_OFFICIAL MEETING WITH MR. CLYDE PULI
_OFFICIAL MEETING WITH DR. LAWRENCE GONZI
_ORGANISATIONS’ BBQ
_OFFICIAL MEETING WITH MS. DOLORES CRISTINA _GREAT SILK WAY CONFERENCE IN AZERBAIJAN _DIGITAL MEDIA HUB
ksu.org.mt
Thousands of euros donated for research and charity.
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SEPTEMBER
2012
_REACTION TO JOSEPH CALLEJA HONORIS CAUSA _NEW WEBSITE _ONLINE ARCHIVES & RESOURCES _SOCIAL POLICY BLOGS
Around 500 complaints & queries answered
_KE/KPS SEMINAR _FOOTBALL NIGHTS _CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS
OCTOBER
2012
_INTERNATIONAL WELCOME PARTY
_ROOM ALLOCATIONS REPORT
_FRESHERS WEEK
NOVEMBER
_CAR TREASURE HUNT
2012
_CAMPUS FEST
_SAVE ERASMUS CAMPAIGN
_EUROPEAN STUDENTS
_LIBRARY AWARENESS SESSION
_CONVENTION IN CYPRUS
_EU CAREERS INFORMATION SESSION
_LAPTOP RENTAL SERVICE
_ICT CAREERS & ESKILLS DISCUSSION
_JC WATER FOUNTAIN
_BUSINESS & CAREERS FORUM
_SMART CARD REFUNDS
_STUDENT REP ELECTIONS
_ORIENTATION DAYS
_MOVEMBER INITIATIVE _EUROPEAN STUDENTS’ UNION BOARD MEETING #63 _INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON QUALITY ASSURANCE _FHS WIFI _GRADUATION SPEECHES _TOGI RENTALS _INTERNSHIPS
More than €20,000 invested directly in student opportunity funds.
@KSU APR 2013
DECEMBER
2012
_SMART CARD REFUNDS AT JC _PLAGIARISM SEMINAR _CHRISTMAS ON CAMPUS
FEBRUARY
2013
_€5,000 DONATIONS TO ISTRINA & DAR TAL-PROVIDENZA
_HEALTH SUBCOMMITTEE
_GRADUATION BALL
_ELECTION DEBATES
_NEW JOB & CAREERS WEBSITE (CAREERS.KSU.ORG.MT)
_ONLINE EVENTS CALENDAR
_@KSU MAGAZINE _BIKE SHELTERS _PEDESTRIAN ROUTES
_POSTGRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES SURVEY _€1,000 RIDT TOKEN DONATION _ORIENTATION DAYS _INTERNATIONAL WELCOME PARTY
JANUARY
2013
_GREEN GENE COMPETITION _VOLUNTARY TUTORING SERVICE _STUDY UNIT FEEDBACK _EXAM HALL FEEDBACK _INVIGILATOR COMPLAINTS SYSTEM _EXTENDED LIBRARY HOURS _REACTION TO STIPENDS ISSSUE _AWARDED €4,000 FOR 2012 RESEARCH FUND
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More than 400 international students welcomed on Campus
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MARCH
2013
_€10,000 RESEARCH & OPPORTUNITIES FUND _CUISINE NIGHT _SMARTPHONE APPLICATION _ORGANISATIONS DAYS
Over 1,000 students already downloaded our Smartphone App
_€2,000 CULTURE FUND _ONE WORLD FAIR _SHOWER FACILITIES _MULTI FAITH ROOM _KE/KPS SEMINAR
_€1,000 DONATION TO PUTTINU CARES
APRIL
2013
_NEW STUDY AREAS _BOLOGNA PROCESS REPORT _JC TENT
Issued more than 4,000 parking permits
_QUADRANGLE DESIGN COMPETITION _OPEN MIC NIGHT _ART INSTALLATIONS ON CAMPUS _ORGANISATIONS FUND _FHS WATER FOUNTAIN _STUDENTS FEST _ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
@KSU APR 2013
Felicity T. Rayner _ Financial Officer
FINANC Being part of an autonomous self-sufficient organization, one is faced by various problems in the running of the organization. Aside from the problems of having to juggle university life and being active in the organization, the organization itself faces financial struggles. The only income to an organization is that from events organized by the organization itself and from application to EU and local funds. Therefore, an organization must do the best it can with the funds available. An internal procedure implemented at KSU is that of Budgeting. Budgets are prepared at the beginning of our term annually and for every event organized by the council. Budgeting is essential as that will give the opportunity to the executive members to plan their events from beforehand and obtain better prices for any expenses incurred. Monthly budgets could also be prepared so that a constantly updated picture of the organization’s financial position can be seen. ksu.org.mt
Another important procedure which is required for the continuity of the organisation is that records are kept updated and filed accordingly in a proper filing system. This will aid in tracking transactions and increasing the consistency and continuity between councils.
Over the years many organisations were faced with financial problems as they could not find copies of invoices and receipts which were issued by previous executive members. A policy which KSU had initiated last year is that of costcutting; decreasing our expenses and investing the money saved in students. Cost-cutting is essential in times of financial difficulty as that will ensure the consistency of the organization in the long-term.
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EFFICIENT
NCING However, being part of a student organisation gives a person a experience and insight into how much work and time is involved in organizing events, financing the events and much more.
_IN ORGANISATIONS
I urge students to be active and take part as this it will definitely be a memorable adventure.
@KSU APR 2013
We develop world-class iOS & OS X applications
ksu.org.mt
info@ncodx.com | www.ncodx.com
+356 9999 0875 | +356 9999 0283
NCODX is a vibrant, fresh and innovative software solutions company dedicated in designing, developing and distributing iOS and OS X applications that specially run on iPads, iPhones, iPod Touches and Macs, and providing enterprise class services and support around those technologies. We pride ourselves in delivering the best possible quality, to approach each and every project individually, and try to re-think every situation as if there were no other before, in order to deliver a truly unique product for you. If you pride yourself in being different from your competition, by delivering the best products and services in your field at unparalleled quality above everything else, we will have a great time working together to create something great.
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@KSU APR 2013
ksu.org.mt