Meet the Candidates 2021 by University of Portsmouth Students' Union

ELECTIONS GUIDE

2021

Everything you need to know about the 2021 Student Elections

WELCOME TO THE GUIDE FOR THE 2021 STUDENT ELECTIONS! Contained in this booklet is all of the information you need to know about this year’s Student Elections.

This year you will be electing five full-time Officer roles: Academic Representation Officer Democracy and Campaigns Officer Learning Experience Officer Development Officer Welfare Officer

These officers will lead The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union for the 2021/22 Academic Year and will represent your interests at the highest levels of the University of Portsmouth. Information about each role and the candidates standing for each position can be found on the next few pages. We will also explain how you can vote. The voting platform can be found at: upsu.net/vote The UPSU Elections Team

HOW TO VOTE For our Student Elections we use a system known as Single Transferable Voting. It might sound complicated but it really isn’t! You will need to rank the candidates in order of preference with 1 being your favourite. Please try to rank all candidates for each role. This is deemed to be a fairer system of electing our Officers and means that no student’s vote is wasted. When it comes to vote, your ballot paper should look something like this

Voting will open at 9am on Monday 15th March and will be open 24 hours a day. Voting will close at 12.30pm on Friday 19th March. The results will be on a Facebook livestream at 6pm on Friday 19th March. All students are welcome to come along. You can cast your vote at the following link: upsu.net/vote

ACADEMIC REPRESENTATION OFFICER CANDIDATES The Academic Representation Officer will be elected to represent University of Portsmouth students and their role will focus on key academic representation areas and issues, including: - The Course Rep system - Faculty Reps and Faculty Networks - Strengthen academic partnerships with the University - Leading on academic campaigns, such as: teaching quality, assessment and feedback, or timetabling. The Academic Representation Officer will also act as a point of contact for academic representational issues or queries from the University of from external sources.

1. To help improve the standard of the academic experience 2. To extend the sense of community 3. To continue or improve the quality of satisfaction

Thanvir Ahmed

THANVIR AHMED Candidate for the position of Academic Representative, 2021 My name is Thanvir Ahmed and I am an MSc student at the Faculty of Technology. I am standing to be elected as the Academic Representative because I would like to ensure that the views of all students from all faculties and years are represented. The reason I want to be because I think I can make a real difference. The best skill I have that I am a very organized person and dedicated and easy to get along with people. I believe I have the courage that I am not afraid to voice up for your opinions and stand up for you. Because I really care about you. My main manifesto points are as follows: • Objective 1: To help improve the standard of academic experience • Objective 2: To extend the sense of community • Objective 3: To continue or improve the quality of satisfaction I would be honored to represent you during this year and to be given the opportunity to make a positive impact on your university experience. This Position is not about me guys, it’s about you. “TOGETHER WE CAN CHANGE”. And I believe it starts with you voting for me, Thanvir Ahmed your next Academic Representative. I am here to Listen to you Guys. Thank you for reading through my manifesto, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, Thanvir Ahmed on Facebook and mr.thanvirahmed@gmail.com Please vote for me as #1 Academic Representative

1. Student voice 2. Accadamic Assistance 3. International community

Abu Ramzan Showrov

Myself Abu Ramzan Showrov. I’m a student of university of Portsmouth also student Representative of international business and management. Studing Msc international business and management. I’m an international student. I’m Bangladesh �� . Vote for me. Why?? I’m a strong voice for international students. Fellow students studying in a foreign country is a challenging experience. I know the struggles an international student when they arrive here as fresher’s. I will try my best efforts to support a fellow students

ACADEMIC REPRESENTATION OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. VALUE: To continue to lobby for a reduction in tuition fees and ensure VALUE for money. 2. EFFECTIVENESS: To assess the EFFECTIVENESS of teaching and learning in and out of the virtual environment. 3. SUPPORT: To ensure that students are able to get consistent essential SUPPORT from their lecturers. Edward Walls

During my time as the current Academic Representation Officer and as a student myself, I have heard loud and clear some of the key issues other students have been facing with the academic side of their university experiences, especially during these trying times. The problems these issues present are, in no uncertain terms, difficult and stressful to many. I am determined to ensure that these issues are not to the student’s detriment. Firstly, I pledge to continue lobbying the government and engaging in discussions with the university to reduce the price of tuition fees down from £9250 to better reflect the current circumstances we are all living in. I will also continue to discuss other forms of compensation and ways in which the student learning experience could be enriched and improved to achieve a better value for money and a fairer reflection of the current university experience. Secondly, I will assess the effectiveness of the virtual learning environment currently being provided and aim to ultimately ensure that no student is unfairly penalised as a result of the shift to a virtual landscape, holding the university to account if this is the case (I am currently investigating any cases in which the university has been unable to provide promised facets of the learning experience). Any positives that arise from virtual learning, such as more flexibility on how and when lectures are delivered, I intend to encourage the university to explore more going forward to allow more variety in how students are able to access their course content in the future. Thirdly, I will continue to help increase the support students receive from their lecturers, especially those struggling with communication levels. Low mental health has understandably affected many of us in the recent year, and I intend to leave no student behind. You can help me achieve this by voting #1 for Edward for Academic Representation! #IVotED 1. Encourage university departments to publish exam timetables earlier, as well as to make sure all student timetables are distributed prior 2. More scheduled feedback & support session from lecturers and also increasing their contact hours. 3. More practical, easy to understand and less questionable coursework guidelines. Relevant and liberal marking criteria to be accessible.

Dhyey Dave

Education is a right, not a privilege and students are not statistics. Education has the power to build bridges, develop empathy, open minds, and increase our quality of life. With my experience and passion, I know that I am the right candidate to be your education officer. If Elected I will... 1. Implement a ‘Students as Partners’ program that encourages students and teachers to collaborate to build a more engaging and community-driven campus. 2. Increase practical support for International Students like Academic tutorials, Visa aid, travel and bank introductions, language workshops. 3. Help New Students into university studies with hands-on essays, seminars and lectures workshops. 4. Implement a ‘Feed-Forward’ framework, which allows access to the work of previous students and past papers which will create a more constructive and proactive learning experience. 5. Introducing Seminars led by employers, successful companies, publications and freelancers to exchange skills and advice with students. 6. Increasing support and space beyond the degree of a student for personal projects or artistic disciplines. 7. Continue to support and work with student representatives, placing student concerns at the forefront of our policies. 8. Encourage better quality feedback from tutors. All departments to offer feedback on exam performance, particularly electronic-feedback. 9. Push for better provision and better-quality academic resources in the library. 10. Work to build awareness of the work of the Careers’ Service, and also push for more non-finance sector careers fairs and workshops. Thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto, and I hope you will give your previous vote to me.and be able to help instigate measured changes.

ACADEMIC REPRESENTATION OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Be the bridge of communication for students and the university 2. Ensure ALL students feels safe and protected during their time at the university 3. Improve sustainability at the university

Sapphire Rance

I have been a course representative for 2 years and faculty representative for 1 year, so I can safely say I have a vast amount of experience working under these roles and the responsibilities you have to uptake on behalf of yourself and the university, therefore I believe I would bring a wealth of knowledge towards running the course rep scheme as well as faculty network. Alongside this, I would say I am extremely passionate about making sure the students are heard with the issues and problems that they may face and I want to make sure each and every student at the university of portsmouth leaves with best that they can, especially during this terrible and unforeseen time in all of our lives. Lastly, my current goal as a faculty representative is to become the bridge between students and the university in terms of communication and I wish to carry on my goal into the next academic year, this time at a higher level where I believe I will be able to push towards my aim. In the small and limited time I have been faculty representative for creative and cultural industries, I have already done so much for this goal including setting up a group chat that includes most of the course representatives under my faculty and taking their concerns and worries to a higher level, ensuring they get heard, as well as setting up video tutorials for many on how to use start and have your say, constantly encouraging students to utilise these tools to benefit themselves. To conclude, I wish to do all I have spoken about and much if I was to be the Academic Representative officer for the next academic year.

1. Enhance Communication 2. Increase Society Integration 3. Promote Postgraduate Involvement

Md Rasel Ahmed

My name is Md Rasel Ahmed and I am a student of University of Portsmouth. I am doing MSc in International Business and Management. I am the candidate of Academic Representation Officer - 2021. My first aim is to raise awareness of our Student’ Union and all of the organisations, societies and volunteering opportunities available to the individuals at the University of Portsmouth . I hope to work closely with Staff, Students and Alumni by using all forms of social media to promote said opportunities. I want to be remembered as a student president who pursued the wishes of the students and accomplished many great things. I will be willing to do anything within my power to achieve this as the students are my main concern. As student representation, I would bring leadership, commitment and creativity to the role along with a strong work ethic and a positive mental attitude. Over the next year I want to see more power in the hands of students and this will be an underlying objective of any changes that I make over my term. As student representation, it will be my aim to ensure that all students’ voices are heard. My motivation is simple; I believe in this university and through the collective work of the student union, staff and the students, we can continue with the great progress that this university is making. My final aim is to increase communication between the Students’ Union and the students to try and provide everyone with regular updates on what the Student’s Union is doing to improve the experience of all students. Thank you for reading my manifesto and feel free to get in contact: up2049808@ myport.ac.uk

Voting will open at 9am on Monday 15th March and will be open 24 hours a day. Voting will close at 12.30pm on Friday 19th March. The results will be announced on a Facebook livestream on the Students’ Union page at 6pm on Friday 19th March. All students are welcome to view the results live. You can cast your vote at the following link: upsu.net/vote

DEMOCRACY AND CAMPAIGNS OFFICER CANDIDATES The Democracy and Campaigns Officer will be elected to represent University of Portsmouth students and their role will focus on key student democratic issues and systems as well as leading on and promoting student campaigns, including: - Oversight of UPSU’s democratic systems - Leading on Have Your Say, Union Actioning Body, and the Student Networks - Being a key activist and campaigner for Portsmouth students, locally and nationally - They will also serve as the link with the local Portsmouth community The Democracy and Campaigns Officer will also act as the point of contact for any democratic or campaign issues or queries from the University of from external sources.

1. Include more booth areas in the library, meaning more space for group work and comfier spaces 2. Mental health facilities to be expanded 3. More areas for students to socialise. This includes working towards opening the student Union for student nights and having specific themed nights Charlie Carver

As a Democracy and Campaigns officer, I will make sure that I listen to the students and do the best I can to work on what the students feel is needed within the University. Due to lockdown and the COVID-19 pandemic, many people, including students, are suffering with their mental health. As a university and being away from families during these tough times, putting procedures and more accessible facilities into place to help with mental health will hopefully be introduced. I will find out from students what they feel the best ways are to help with mental health, and through this I will take actions and work out the best ways to tackle this. Group library study spaces that are free can at times be difficult to come across. I will aim to improve these spaces, which would include adding more booth areas, with plug sockets and USB ports. I also aim to make it clearer before students make their way to the library how many people are already in there, and what spaces are available. This will ensure students make the most out of their library experience and get work done efficiently and to the best of their ability. One big debate that has currently occurred is the BLM movement. I will aim to ensure equality and fairness within the university is in place, and create groups specific to this topic where people will be able to join and speak about how they feel. This will give everyone a say and specific topics can be debated. I will also aim to raise money for the BLM movement. Lastly, I will aim to open the student union for social events, where students can socialise. I will create themed nights (like purple Wednesday’s) and events. the same opportunities to reach their academics successfully. “If I am your choice, I will be your voice”.

1. I have a passion for fighting social inequality. 2. I will always struggle for any rights of students. 3. I will represent your concepts and make them effective.

Abu Kalam

My name is Abu Kalam. I’m racing for Democracy and Campaigns Officer. I am student of MSc International Business and Management. After coming there, I can understand the struggles, challenges, and necessities of international students. I have a passion for fighting social inequality and I will always struggle for the rights of students. I have a strong voice for a global community with the Students’ Union and I will represent your concepts and make them effective. Whenever anyone feels academic problems, I will always with them to help. If, I will be a powerful voice of all international students under the Students’ Union and I make sure that everybody gets the same opportunities to reach their academics successfully. “If I am your choice, I will be your voice”.

DEMOCRACY AND CAMPAIGNS OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Bring Back the Union Bar! 2. Better Student Housing! 3. Put Portsmouth on the Map!

Dom Owen

Firstly, social interaction is crucial for a wholesome university experience. Have you been satisfied with your social interactions this year? It is no secret that socialising is a key aspect of university. Not only does it improve mental health, but it also progresses your interpersonal skills and helps you discover useful connections. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has made socialising difficult. Therefore, I will campaign to return the union bar! This is especially useful for first years, who have found it tough to meet new people due to government guidelines. The union pub will bring the university back together instantly once the pandemic has concluded. Moreover, suitable housing is proven to be essential for great university experiences. This is relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic, where we all work from home. With 20% of us expecting to earn less due to the pandemic, we must not allow subpar housing and halls to remain prevalent at our university! Rats, mould and exorbitant hidden fees all contribute to a worse living standard for students, impacting mental health and attainment. This is unacceptable. As a campaigns officer, I will continue campaigning for greater housing standards and greater transparency. I have experience in this sector, with positive results from collective efforts, such as partly influencing the creation of a landlordtenant mediation service. Put Portsmouth on the map! I will forge new partnerships with other universities globally. Benefits reside in ‘study abroad’ courses, because of fresh options being available, to suit all students. Greater partnerships open more possibilities for greater, freer collaboration with other institutions. This improves research output and promotes Portsmouth’s prestige. This can raise our place in the league tables. Shared online resources ensure greater access to information for students. I will do this by communicating with institutions to determine which are best for our university. Vote Dom #1!

1. Free University laptop for every student 2. More vegan, vegetarian, and halal food options across campus 3. Student discount bus to travel within Portsmouth / nightclub bus service

Carol Gouveia

1. Now more than ever we are working from our computers, the University should be providing us with free laptops considering we pay so much tuition and will spend 3 to 4 years studying. Especially when you start university you do not know the requirements for your course or have the resources to buy your own laptop. 2. There should be more vegan, vegetarian and halal food options to cater for more students as there is not enough choice for other dietary requirements. I will work to introduce healthier and more diverse food options. 3. The University of Portsmouth Bus does not cover all of Portsmouth and public transport can become very pricey very quickly for those who live further outside of the university area. I propose to introduce a night bus service for when clubbing starts again and a discounted bus service for those who live outside of the current university bus route. Especially as Portsmouth is looking to become less polluted with cars, this will make it easier and cheaper for students to go to university.

DEMOCRACY AND CAMPAIGNS OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Believe in democracy 2. Act as an democrat 3. Stand for those who are in need indeed

Shafin Zaman

My view is aligned with the role, “Democracy” and “ Campaign” officer which are stated below: First of all, international students certainly face some obstacles especially when they enrolled in any English-speaking country’s university. Throughout my role as a student representative of my course, I have figured out some issues, i,e. students are sometimes hesitant to express themselves in the class so in that case, I tried to play a supportive role for them to overcome their fears. Sometimes personally I do some sessions with them to motivate them to share their opinions without thinking of language difficulties. Secondly, every class consists of international students especially from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and China where local students are the majority. In that case, minority groups sometimes feel excluded when it is important to make them realize the power of democracy. Consequently, it will help them to be included within the British Culture. another thing is, democracy refers to all so this is not only to represent minority students’ rights but also local students are equally important to me as representative stands for all regardless of any specific group. Lastly, I have extensive experience as a teacher and entrepreneur where I worked as a representative with countries as Germany and the Netherlands government so in terms of campaigning I can ensure playing a proper role on behalf of the university as well as with external stakeholders. To conclude, I could say that I believe I am an appropriate candidate to fit the role of “Democracy and Campaign” officer cause my manifesto, work strategy, and background is legitimate to work for the university and the students. 1. I will work with the university to create an archive of previous university projects that can be used in our CVs. 2. I will push for more university communication to be written in plain English to avoid misinterpretation. 3. I look forward to listening to your ideas and continuing to advocate for the student body.

Molly Carpenter

I am a final year English Language and Linguistics student. In my three years at the University, I have advocated for different issues as much as I could do in my position. Just before the pandemic started, news spread about devastating cuts to the Literature course. Although these cuts went ahead despite the petitions and protests, I still believe it was incredibly important for our voices to be heard with this issue. I would endeavour to ensure that every student’s voice is heard should you elect me as the Democracy and Campaigns Officer. The petition that I created for the University to implement a No Detriment policy reached almost 9,000 signatures. Alongside a group of students, I worked closely with the Union to push for a form of safety net for our grades similar to the overwhelming majority of other Universities in the UK. This was a successful campaign, as No Detriment practices have been put into place to cover the duration of the pandemic. More recently, 2020 and 2021 graduates received an email stating that we would be graduating virtually and there would be no consideration for rescheduling a face-to-face graduation whenever it is safe to attend. We were instead offered to “don our gowns” at an alumni event that is scheduled for 2022. It didn’t sit right that a huge, face-to-face, alumni event could be considered for 2022, but graduation ceremonies - possibly the most important and most looked forward to day in our University careers - would not even be considered to be rescheduled. Again, I fought and campaigned with other students for this to be reassessed - which it has been! I would love to continue to advocate for the student body, and this role would give me more of an opportunity to do so.

DEMOCRACY AND CAMPAIGNS OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Accountability: Ensuring that all officers & members are accountable to the students. Publish reports on various campaigns to track them 2. Transparency & Inclusivity : Making students aware of the funding and how it contributes towards their welfare. Create inclusive and safe environment for all. 3. Empowerment: Making job opportunities accessible to all students, setting centers or classes to help them enhance their skills. Maggie Chauhan

Hi, my fellow students, I’m Maggie Chauhan. I’m running for Democracy and Campaign Officer. You might be saying to yourself :”Is Maggie qualified enough for this post?” I’ve several great reasons why you should vote for me. I’ve been involved in various campaigns from environmental, socio-economic, LGBTQIA awareness generation programs to spreading education to the underprivileged section of the society. I’ll work towards campaigns that matters to all of us be it educational, social or economic matters. Accountability: I’ll set up online portal (want to share your concern and not talk face to face), bi-weekly zoom meetings so you can speak to me one-one or simply drop me an email. Being an international student, I’d like to analyze the hidden cost apart from tuition fee to get access to education and ways we can work to minimize this cost. Transparency & Inclusivity: I truly feel that we are all part of same community with a common goal of working towards the betterment of our society and the University. I will ensure that we work in collaboration and as a unit rather than separate entities. You all constitute Students Union therefore it’s imperative that all of you are informed at every step of the decisions that are taken. You can question us about any decision that we take or request information related to the decisions or processes. More support to BAME Ambassadors, LGBTQIA community & Gender Neutral toilets. Empowerment: You all are empowered with your right to vote and make a choice. To make democracy work, we must be a group of participants, not simply observers. I urge you all to exercise your right to vote and create a difference. Right information at right time related to job opportunities will be shared to empower you all to take right decision.

LEARNING EXPERIENCE OFFICER CANDIDATES The Learning Experience Officer will be elected to represent University of Portsmouth students and their role will focus on key student learning experience areas and issues, including: - Collecting and acting upon student feedback - Widening participation - Working on co-construction with the University, e.g. providing student-led curriculum development or content creation. - Leading on some academic campaigns, such as: teaching quality, assessments, and feedback. The Learning Experience Officer will also act as the point of contact for any learning experience issues or queries from the University of from external sources.

1.Tackle institutional racism in UoP and the BAME (Black, Asian and minority ethnic) attainment gap. 2. Scrap the ‘Fit to Sit’ policy & review extenuating circumstances to be more inclusive of issues students face to support students’ well-being.

Forida Rahman

3. Scrap ineffective learning materials & provide alternatives to group assessments and greater assessment feedback to improve students’ academic performance. Hi everyone! I’m Forida and I’m standing in the election to be your next Learning Experience Officer. As a final year International Relations and Politics student, I’ve personally experienced hurdles over the past three years that have affected my learning. I’m committed to making sure this isn’t the case for you by bringing about positive, long-lasting change to issues that matter the most to YOU to make your learning experience at UoP nothing less than the best, by: BAME: tackling institutional racism in UoP and the BAME attainment gap by working alongside BAME ambassadors to implement a peer-to-peer mentoring scheme and review modules, alongside academic staff, to decolonise the curriculum. Diversity AND inclusion: working alongside underrepresented students to ensure we are not only seen but involved in decision-making carried out by executives who, more often than not, don’t share the same lived experiences as us. ‘Fit to Sit’ & ECFs: lobbying UoP to put students’ well-being first by scrapping the ‘Fit to Sit’ policy which prevents students from submitting ECFs post-assessment submission/exam attendance & reviewing extenuating circumstances, with student consultation, to be more inclusive of issues students face. Learning materials, assessments & feedback: working alongside academic staff to present lectures that help students learn better; provide alternatives to group assessments; and return assessments with greater useful feedback. Support services: working alongside support services to tackle the stigma around helpseeking to help students to feel safe accessing support, knowing that sometimes we all need a helping hand. Student/alumni network: organising more events for students to network with UoP alumni to encourage students’ personal and professional growth. While this is what I hope to achieve, if elected, my work will too be shaped by you - this is your chance to vote for proper representation. Vote Forida #1 for Learning Experience Officer! Follow my campaign on Instagram @voteforida

LEARNING EXPERIENCE OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Refine the careers service and implement varying assessments to increase job prospects. 2. Introduce funding for ALL societies to advocate inclusivity and a society hardship fund to tackle expensive society participation costs. 3. Decolonise the curriculum by incorporating authors from a variety of ethnic backgrounds into reading lists and continue funding for BAME. Jade Jessica

IMPROVING JOB PROSPECTS: Undeniably, Covid-19 has limited student opportunities drastically for years to come so it is imperative that UoP adapts their practices to reflect the current job market. Fortunately, my module coordinator advised how to boost my employability by basing an assessment on a small company, as opposed to large, to increase the chances of my work being published or being offered an internship. However, this isn’t the case for all students! I therefore aim to establish an explicit relationship between the careers service and module coordinators to ensure that a portion of coursework improves students job prospects amongst other initiatives. SOCIETIES ACCESS TO FUNDING: Equally, participation in societies has never been more important. It provides further opportunities to boost CV applications (something that course materials alone cannot provide), as well as mental health benefits and social opportunities needed after months of isolation. Many societies are limited in their activities due to lack of funding, leading to low membership rates and missed out opportunities that are all part of ‘the learning experience’! Working with the development officer, I will argue for departments to fund ALL societies, not just sports, as well as introducing a society hardship fund to ensure no student is excluded due to expensive participation costs. TACKLING HIDDEN INEQUALITIES: To enhance the effectiveness of organisations campaigning for equality such as BAME, we must support and tackle the ROOT of the problem! UoP has a significant number of students from a variety of backgrounds, yet many reading lists seem to predominantly incorporate white scholars. It is vital that educational institutions offer a variety of perspectives within the curriculum to truly combat long- term superiority complexes and discriminating attitudes within society. To reinforce this point of inclusivity, my manifesto will be available in multiple languages via my socials!

1. Free laptops for students by increasing the short term laptop loans to 7 days 2. Enforce accessible education by producing a service agreement with the university 3. Decrease student isolation by creating a personal tutor wellbeing check

Jamie Orr

I want to ensure that all students can adequately access their studies and due to the increase of online learning and the need for having access to a laptop has increased. To change this, I will work with the IT services and the university to increase the time span for the short-term laptop loans so that students will only have to collect and return them once a week. This would prevent students from having to go into university buildings twice a day to access laptops and therefore decrease Covid risk. I want to ensure that the university is proactive in its support for students with learning differences and difficulties. All educational materials should be accessible, and to enforce departments to allow students to use the software they’re given by the government. I want to work with both students and the university to create a service agreement that details the correct quality of service provided to students and ensure that when this agreement isn’t upheld there are processes in place. I want to implement a wellbeing check for students with mental health difficulties. I will work with personal tutors to ensure students with already established mental health difficulties don’t go with support and will create an opt-out service at the point of registration, where personal tutors will be encouraged to keep regular contact with students, especially if they have not heard from the student after a prolonged time period. This is to prevent students from being isolated and losing contact with the university.

LEARNING EXPERIENCE OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Willingness to rise and help rise- Encouraging students in realizing their own potential by making the best use of the resources available 2. Eagerness to grow and promote growth- by promoting inclusion, so that everyone feels respected and appreciated parts of the whole.

Ateeqa Sana Syeda

3. Aspiring to lead and to be lead-with my own experience as a course coordinator at a university, I know the importance of ‘customer satisfaction’. As a Learning Experience Officer at UoP, my first priority would be to become a mentor and guide to young aspiring students. I will bring with me, the experiences and exposure I cherished both as a student and ESL course Instructor at various institutions around the world. The valuable life-skills I gained during my learning and working tenure would definitely help me to motivate and inspire students from different cultural backgrounds to turn their aspirations into success. My second priority would be to encourage students to gain the maximum out of the exceptional resources provided at UoP- both human and infrastructure, I aspire to promote awareness amongst students in how to make the best of their time, energy, resources, and opportunities available. cultural sensitivity compels students to distance themselves from many chances they may have. My responsibility would be to address these silent issues in order to generate awareness and realization of self-worth and recognition of opportunities. Lastly, I aim to encourage leadership amongst students. I believe that individuals don’t need to wait for the right opportunities, instead- create them. They would be supported to participate and contribute to the projects lead by the university. This would encourage them to express their experiences and enhance the preset policies and programs. They can seek support every time they find themselves in challenging situations- they’d definitely have an endearing face to approach to. Dissemination of important information via meetings, emails, or any other tools of communication would be guaranteed to all. Being an Academic Coordinator at my university has developed my experience and understanding of what individuals expect when they become part of an organization. My aim would be to be a tower of strength, motivation, and optimism.

1. 3rd year Biomedical Science student. 2. Current course representative for level 6 Biomedical Science students. 3. If elected as an officer of the students’ union, I will represent the interest of every student at the University of Portsmouth (UoP). Bamidele Peter

My name is Bamidele Peter. I am an international student from Nigeria. I am running for the post of Learning Experience Officer and I hope to represent every student’s interest by listening to student feedback via different platforms such as student academic representation tool (START), supporting and sharing the university’s vision to make UoP and UPSU better for both current and prospective students, and achieving my set goals to improve the overall student experience at the UoP. My goals and objectives for becoming the Learning Experience Officer are as follows: - Propose to the university to introduce a bursary given to a student with the best academic performance in an academic year for each faculty. - Creation of an international student forum within the student union to relay feedback (in the form of suggestions, opinions, complaints) from international students to the university. This student-led group will serve as a direct link between the university and international students.

LEARNING EXPERIENCE OFFICER CANDIDATES 1. Implement a ‘Students as Partners’ policy, allowing collaboration between students and staff to create a more engaging and community-driven 2. Use hands-on essay, seminar and lecture workshops to better ease new students into university education

Chioni Mumba

3. Develop a clearer, more coherent VLE introducing lecture recordings, lecture hand-outs and a more accessible range of learning techniques I am Mumba Chioni, a Master’s in International Development with Education and Gender Studies student. I believe ‘Investment in Knowledge Pays the Best Interest’ If elected, I will; STUDENTS AS PARTNERS IN THEIR EDUCATION Introduce a ‘Students as Partners’ policy, allowing collaboration between students and staff to create a more engaging and community-driven campus, increase practical services for International students, (language workshops, visa aid, travel and bank introductions), develop a more coherent VLE by introducing accessible types of learning techniques for disabled students specifically, create a ‘Feed-Forward’ scheme, which gives access to former students work and a constructive learning experience, introduce a study smart program which will enable all students to attain full learning potential, continue to support and work with student representatives, prioritizing student concerns. STUDENT SUPPORT Host round-table discussions for underrepresented academic groups and underrepresented liberation groups, and work towards their needs, introduce employer-led workshops, inviting exciting organizations, publications and freelancers to share skills and advice with students, increase support and space for personal projects, or creative disciplines outside of a student’s degree and implement adequate support services for disabled students EMPLOYABILITY STRATEGIES To increase quality links with leading local, national, international and graduate recruiters through the careers and employability team, ensure employability initiatives doesn’t discriminate against sub-groups; particularly International Students, students with restricted geographical mobility or a protected characteristic such as a declared disability. EXPERIENCE I served as Disability secretary and first female V.Chairperson during my B.A(Hons) at Kwame Nkrumah Teaching University, I am currently serving as HOD of Education and V.Chairperson for two NGO’s whose aim is to improve education quality. I’m your ideal candidate to be the next Learning Experience Officer because my experience in a variety of representational roles alongside my enthusiasm and creativity will drive beneficial changes in our University.

DEVELOPMENT OFFICER CANDIDATES The Development Officer will be elected to represent University of Portsmouth students and their role will focus on key student development areas, including: - Student Groups and Societies - Some elements of the old Sports remit - Student volunteering opportunities - Student training opportunities The Development Officer will also act as the point of contact for any development, volunteering, or training queries from the University of from external sources.

1. Student Voice - Keep lobbying and working with the university for students’ needs! Students are not to blame for Covid 2. Out of Covid - Activity Work closely with Groups and Sport and Rec to get activity back. Get Freshers’ fayre, Awards, Graduation back, bigger and better Mike Kiddell

3. Student Welfare - Students need more support now than ever before. I want to make sure those services are always available for students If elected as your Development Officer for a second year, I want to make sure students have the reassurance and support they need. I believe students need a second-term officer who already has experience and working relationships with the university. Now is not the time to be hesitant but instead, continue with a firm voice. I want to make sure I carry on the amazing work we have achieved for students so far this year. Despite Covid, I have managed to make real progress and achieve last year’s manifesto points. I am currently working on Committee training so that our members are getting the most out of their committee experience. Additionally, I have pushed the UPSU Groups Exec and their engagement with Student Groups, especially through social media which has given them better platforms and opportunities to share and promote clubs. I have set up Purple Champions which is a volunteering program that helps deliver outreach and opportunities to students on campus. Some other of my Officer wins : Can Do Programme that is a covid secure, engaging student experience that adds value, helps build their own communities and provides activity and support lobbied the university to supply over 25000 premium zoom accounts Been a constant voice to make sure there are huge amounts of support funds in hardship and rent rebates

DEVELOPMENT OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Recruit mental health volunteers to personally interact with students 2. Create various new activities both sport and non-sport based – get EVERYONE involved 3. Personally ensure no-one is unhappy Joseph Solomon

My name is Joseph Solomon and as your Development Officer, I will ensure that no student is neglected. Having gone through the entire university system from Year 1 to my final year, I know how difficult it is to talk about mental health, battling every assignment, social pressure and everything else uni life throws at us. When I’m elected, I will recruit volunteers to talk to students, and employ a service that allows students to remain anonymous and still have someone to keep in contact with, face-to-face or over the phone. With everything that’s happening in the world today, no-one should be alone. There’s no denying the coronavirus pandemic put everything on standstill. But instead of going back to ‘normal’, why don’t we make some improvements? As your Developmental Officer, with your input, I will find out what we’re missing. Activities YOU want to get involved in. Societies YOU want to be involved in. I know how daunting the sign-up process can be. Many, many students pretend that they “didn’t really want to join a society” when the real answer is there wasn’t a society for them. Don’t change who you are for anyone. Let me help you. Vote me #1 and this WILL change. At this point, you probably think I’m another one of those guys that promises you rainbows and instead gives you rainfall. But believe me when I say, there is NOONE standing like me. I’m not just a “let’s get the job done” guy. In fact, once I’m elected, if at least one student that puts their idea forward remains unhappy, I want you to PERSONALLY hold me responsible. Because my one goal in my tenure as your Development Officer is for every student at this university to enjoy themselves. So come on, vote me #1! 1. Development 2. Transparency 3. Integrity

Jibrilla Abubakar Tanimu

My name is Jibrilla Tanimu, a PhD student from the school of computing. Some of my Agenda will be. Improve Student involvement in clubs: Many student do have little ideas or zero ideas about clubs and activities in the university, by increasing communication and awareness among student, we will have large number of participants and archive on big society, with different clubs and activities. There is need to propose a master plan to develop social activities to improve social development among student to interact with one another, to have the since of involvement among student, after the pandemic. Summary: Improve postgraduate involvement in clubs and development of clubs. Increase social activities: Proposing more social activities to re integrate people to society after this trying time. Develop more flexible planes to help student with financial challenges during and after this trying time.

DEVELOPMENT OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. To strengthen and create more social activities for the development of students. 2. To make the university year more than just a struggle for grades but a unique experience. 3. To support my peers and ensure their voices are heard, especially in decisions that involve us. Queensly Otoibhi

Great leaders don’t set out to be leaders...they set out to make a difference. It’s never about the role, always about the goal. My name is Queensly Otoibhi, I’m an Architecture student and I’m running for the post of development officer. I took interest in this position because I want to aid the development of students not just academically but socially. I want to listen to your views and echo your concerns and it’s interesting because when I read the brief of this position, the word ‘lead’ appeared numerous times but to be a good leader you need to be an even better servant. Coming into this university I didn’t really enjoy my first experience, I had heard so much about everything it could be and it was ruined by the pandemic, but in spite of that, if I’m elected, I would work with my fellow officers to create an environment where students can engage with their interests while respecting government guidelines. We could start by designing a means where sport events e.g football matches can hold without any health concerns. The goal is to restore group activities and clubs, it is to work closely with the university to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of my peers. With everything said I hope you vote for me and as the cliché goes, a vote for me is a vote for change.

1. Club Cohesion - Bringing clubs together 2. Find your Fit - Facilitating new members in finding their club 3. Support Societys - Offer support to committees Jonathan Gilbey

Hello! I’m Jonny, thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto - hopefully it will give you an idea of what I’m about! Club Cohesion - Encouraging joint events between clubs and more club led events such as sportos (Dance), so you think you can pole etc. Allowing people to expand their friend groups and go out of their comfort zone in a fun and exciting way! Find your Fit - Encouraging new members to try a multitude of clubs until they find a right for them, leading to more members for all clubs. Society’s are one of the best things at university, more time should be focused on showing people what they are all about! Support Society’s - Put structures and plans in place that make the job of committee members easier for years to come, allowing them to develop and grow as appose to maintaining. This would potentially help clubs charge less, offer more sober socials and plan large events such as Christmas meal well ahead of time. As development officer I really want to push for transparency. Have students see exactly what I am doing and have an influence in the decisions. there are so many things that could potentially be done and I want the priority of these to be decided by you, the ones it effects the most. Thank you very much for taking the time to read my manifesto, I hope you believe in the changes I want to make! If you haven’t already please take a look at my campaign video to find out more

DEVELOPMENT OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. ‘One-click’ Employability Hub by working with the Careers and Employability team. 2. 1-2-1 Career Check and Opportunity hub by working with the Alumni team to provide further access to Alumni Prospects and Opportunities Elysia Hunt

3. Society and Club “ShoutOut’s” by creating an online platform to promote Society and Club fundraising, charity work and events I want to change and develop how the university engages with students, to support their career journey and personal development. I am running to develop a Oneclick’ Employability Hub and provide further access to Alumni Prospects and Opportunities by producing a termly 1-2-1 career check and opportunity hub. I am also eager to create a Society and Club “ShoutOut’s” platform. I am propose to introduce a ‘Yearly Rewind’ Event for students from all years to reflect on their individual or Societies and Clubs successes. I am strongly running for free course and training for Course Representatives and both Society and Club Secs to enhance their CV’s. My key running points are important because even though 94% of graduates are working or in further study, have you been asked about your career journey whilst at university? Are you in your final year and not been asked about your career plans following graduation? This needs to change! I propose to do this by working with the University so that students have access to convenient and modern platforms to strengthen their employability post University. My running points will positively impact the university, giving equal, clear access to updated employability resources to all students. I am passionate in speaking to individuals both in person and virtually, having worked in customer facing roles during my employment as well as communication with Directors and the CEO of Worcester Bosch whilst on my Placement year. I am currently employed as a Placement Assistant with the Universities Placement Office and know the resources available to students in the Law with Business Faculty. My current job role has also allowed me to see how ineffective current university platforms are in effectively communicating opportunities to ALL students at the university.

WELFARE OFFICER CANDITATES The Welfare Officer will be elected to represent University of Portsmouth students and their role will focus on key student welfare issues, including: - Student welfare and safety - Student well-being - Mental health campaigns The Welfare Officer will also act as the point of contact for any welfare issues or queries from the University of from external sources.

1. Support students into resuming ‘normal life’ 2. Support resit students and those who may still have to distance learn. 3. Equal encouragement for all students.

Natasha Layley

For the past year, I have acted as Welfare Executive for sports and recreation, supporting sports societies with the challenges faced throughout the pandemic. In the coming months, we will be resuming ‘normal’ life. We will face many welfare issues, such as safety on nights out, with most first years having some of their first nights out at university and many other students feeling anxious returning to packed clubs. For this I will work on spreading night out safety awareness, particularly within halls of residence. As well as nights out, societies will be back to playing sport. Working with the sport executives for year ahead to delve deeper into the mental health implications of taking a year out of sports, with both a decrease in physical ability and the negative thoughts that come alongside this and how, as a team, we can work to reduce these. Due to unforeseen circumstances over the past year, many students have not been able to work to their full potential. This, in turn, may lead to a higher number of resit students, some of which will only take a couple of units. Working with Careers and Wellbeing I would look at how to aid students, not only with their mental health but ensuring they’re getting the most out of their time, bettering their grades and looking for other opportunities to improve their CVs. I will work with Wellbeing and the Union to adapt their services more specifically to address issues that are faced by both the BAME and LGBTQ+ communities, whether this presents in their home life, course, relationships, or daily life. I will actively encourage these communities into participating in a range of societies as well as encouraging said societies to participate in wellbeing initiatives such as pride month and black history month.

1. Student Rights 2. Helping Hand 3. Commitment

Ashik Mahmud

My beloved friends, Vote is your legitimate right. I believe the manifesto should not be just words. what we are saying must have to be a concern. I’m participating in this election not because of getting the privilege from the University because of providing the privilege and love to all of you. The services are associated with the university welfare and wellbeing I will Inform you before you need them. Your university’s welfare assistance is my concern. certainly, we are all building a wealthy community than before. Kind Regards Name: Ashik Mahmud Student ID: UP2042941 International Business and Management. Faculty of Business and Law. Mail: up2042941@myport.ac.uk

WELFARE OFFICER CANDITATES CONTINUED 1. Focus on student’s mental wellbeing by combating feelings of isolation and loneliness 2. Ensure students safety around campus and beyond school hours 3. Be a good diplomat and a voice for students in need by presenting issues to the university board and ensuring funds go toward this essential cause Rosie Trevett-Smart

Progressively over the last year, the pandemic has caused student morale to decline, leaving students feeling isolated and trapped within their education. As your nominated Welfare officer, I wish to put a system in place that will prioritise students’ mental health and safety. To do this I will create an app, which will be available to all students. Its sole purpose will be to guide and assist students in need, from students who are feeling down to individuals who need advice with housing situations and financial advice. The app will compose of several different segments, ranging from 1 to 1 counselling, a buddying system which will allow students suffering from loneliness to chat amongst others who are also struggling. The app will also help with staying informed on relevant topics as the app will include an up to date blog, with popular articles available too, alongside upcoming events within the university, housing and financial advice and easy access to your personal timetable etc. With my app I hope to break down uncertainty prior to arriving at university for first years and while the app will hold valuable information it cannot be a physical helping hand which is why I will enforce ‘helpers’ around campus for the first two weeks of university to guide venerable students to their classes and provide general assistance. Student safety around campus at night is also a top priority of mine therefore I wish to allocate security around Guildhall walk to ensure the safety of our students and propose a university funded transport system which I believe to be essential in assisting students getting as close by to their housing as possible which will reduce crime and therefore increase student safety.

1. MAKE the U1 University Bus a 24/7 Service 2. CREATE an elected BAME Sabbatical Officer role at the Students’ Union. 3. CONTINUE the campaign for FREE sanitary products, contraception, & drug testing kits for students. James Vivian

A 24/7 BUS SERVICE will not only help students on nights out, it will also help students access critical University services, help us to socialise during the weekend, and provide safe travel in a city that isn’t always safe. An ELECTED BAME OFFICER would help non-white students to have a voice at the top of the Union. Up to 30% of students are from a minority ethnic background, and their needs and priorities need to be reflected in the leadership of the Union. FREE drug testing kits, contraception, and sanitary products should be a given at any University. Promoting safe sex and safe drug use are essential to making sure students have a safe and enjoyable time at University, while free sanitary products will help students fulfil basic biological needs at no extra cost. ON TOP OF THIS I PLEDGE: - To CREATE an action plan to prevent sexual assault between students and review the current complaints process. - To CAMPAIGN on behalf of students with learning difficulties, such as AD(H)D and Dyslexia, who are often not recognised by the University. - To LOBBY the University to maintain online-only learning, increase student Bursaries, and I will PUBLICLY PROVIDE University COVID statistics, until the Pandemic is over. This year has been exceptionally challenging for students, and I promise to do my best to speak up for student’s needs, prioritise the voices of the vulnerable, and to listen to minorities and act in their best interests. Stay safe.

WELFARE OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Mental Health! Signposting existing services, support with taking the first step towards help, identifying gaps in existing resources. 2. Socialising! Strategy to encourage the use of pictures, videos and microphones on zoom calls so we can all put faces to names. Support with overcoming any anxiety about returning to face-toface learning, EVENTS and opportunities to meet new people both virtually and in person. 3. Unity! Working together to share knowledge ideas and experiences so that we as a collective Jazmin Stubbings body can create the future, we want for ourselves, with kindness and without division… breaking down walls to build together. My approach as Welfare and Communities Officer is to assess the Universities provisions and identify any areas for improvement. Especially, as people’s needs, and experiences have changed so much in the last year. Currently, I feel that there could be more resources (or advertising) for: • Technology addiction • Unhealthy relationships with sex and porn • Safeguarding of international students • Loneliness • Safely experimenting with drugs and accessing help if you feel it’s needed • Processing information that does not fit the mainstream narrative • Overcoming the desire to fit in • Healing from childhood trauma and bullying • Finding balance in your life I have lived an unconventional and (thus far) very successful life, during the many highs and lows of living my truth I have built up a thorough library of experiences which will enable me to best serve the UoP student community. I have taken the lead on several successful change management projects during my career in the Research and Innovation Department at our local hospital. My approach is always based on well-rounded logic and compassion for all involved. My ambition in life is to help bring about positive and impactful change by empowering people to reach their full potential so that we can be the architects of our own futures and break free from the social constraints that we have inherited. A vote for me is a vote for trust loyalty and respect. I will fight for your rights, I will make sure your voice is heard, I will gather all the facts and encourage others to act on them. I will work my hardest to make sure you are safe, happy and confident whilst at university and I plan to provide you with the tools to build upon this happiness and confidence for the rest of your life!

1. To diligently fight for employability opportunity for all graduating students not minding a student’s background 2. To take seriously every complaints about discrimination and other similar matters. 3. To often create a meeting event wherein students can meet, interact with each other and make new friends. My name is Angela Onyetema-Anene, a Project Management Postgraduate student, and also an Angela Chiwendu overseas Lawyer. This means that, I have always been in the business of representing and fightOnyetema-Anene ing for the welfare of the people. Opportunities as this, to serving the people convinces me I may never stop to ensure a better welfare for the people, which undoubtedly gives me an end joy that I could do something to help man kind. I have earlier been awarded a leadership certificate by the Nigerian Council of Legal Education, Abuja, as the most promising and diligent leader 2014, and the Nigerian Secretary Young Lawyers Forum, Asaba 2016-2018. Therefore having been in the University of Portsmouth for roughly 6 months, I can assure you that I know what challenges many of us student’s are battling with and I am willing to work towards proferring valuable solutions. Hence, I have built my manifesto on the following to serve you: 1. To fight and create employability opportunity for all graduating students not minding your background. 2. To take seriously every complaints concerning discrimination and other similar matters, and finally to often create a meeting event wherein student’s can meet and make new friends, I can assure you that with the advent of covid-19, our styles of interaction and social lives have been affected. Therefore, With the above, permit me to serve you to enable us recover all that Covid-19 has robbed us with.

WELFARE OFFICER CANDIDATES CONTINUED 1. Always Make Your Next Move Your Best Move 2. Hard word and determination will always get us the results you need 3. Aspire to Inspire Before You Expire.

Abdul-Rahim Seidu

Abdul-Rahim is my name. I have a strong conviction that, welfare should be the heart of everything we do as a union. The physical and mental well-being of the great students of the University of Portsmouth is exceedingly important to me. It given the chance to prove myself as a Welfare Officer, would not only help me attain experience but will be very valuable in future and would also give my fellow students the support needed. As students, we do not often have a well-functioning and welfare support system at mind until we need it. It is very important that a system is kept in place to support every student when the need arises. Life on and off campus can be very stressful especially in this trying time of Covid. Most students across the country are complaining about how their support services has let student down and I Abdul-Rahim strive to make campus a warm place to be, whether a student needs these supports or not. Welfare is an essential service that needs more effort to ensure that students wants are heard and a supportive environment where every student can learn. I would love to expand the peer supporting system which will give an equal chance to all student to reach out to like-minded student. I will work hand-in-hand with local community partners, NHS particularly to create the aware of students on supports that are readily available to them during this pandemic. I would also want to host events that will focus on the wellbeing students. I aspire that no student ever needs to seek for support and that activities are not mistaken. But if they do, I would make certainly a system of active individuals to help with every barrier. Covid is real. Stay safe. This too shall pass