Kunsill Għalik - SDM For KSU 2024

ATTIVIŻMU | PREŻENZA | INVESTIMENT

SDM

For another year I am tremendously proud to present to you, the student body, our collective vision for the upcoming term of KSU. Although, technically the campaign is over as all of our candidates have been elected, accountability is something that we are striving to pursue day in and day out, hence it is still my duty as President to ensure that our trajectory is crystal clear, with you reading this, at the centre of it.

We want this year to be a celebration of activism as we keep our promise for another year to represent all University of Malta students in the best way possible. However, this will not only be your Council, whom you can approach day in day out with whichever query you have, but simply put, this team believes in the ability of every student and as such will push every student to be active on campus and reach their potential in a holistic manner.

‘Kunsill Għalik’ is not just an electoral slogan, without the student body the Council would cease to exist. I urge each and every student to read this manifesto and to approach your elected representatives with any suggestions, but moreover I encourage each and every student to participate in the Council’s initiatives throughout the year.

If you want change, you must be the change. Be active, make your voices heard and never stop believing that you can make a difference. Let’s continue promoting activism together.

HertianSalamehCachia

SDM President

MAIN PROPOSALS

PRESIDENT

Ensure efficient and environmentallyconscious investments in students through KSU resources

MAIN PROPOSAL

VICE-PRESIDENT FOR INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Explore the introduction of additional student-centred spaces around the UM Campus, with the aim of non-academic engagement, to build on the success of the chess structure on quad implemented this year.

VICE-PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

Advocate for the continuity of the Sustainability Report within KSU, collaborating with student organisations to enhance transparency and foster environmental accountability

MAIN PROPOSAL

SECRETARY GENERAL

Work on engaging in efforts aimed at improving the quality of office spaces allocated to student organisations, encompassing refurbishment, space renovation and furniture replacement as necessary, after consulting with student organisations themselves.

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

Establish an edition of the KSU Academy along the topic of Public Relations, Communications and Digital Skills, targeted to student organisations by liaising with external speakers.

MAIN PROPOSAL

FINANCE OFFICER

Advocate for the purchase of institutional licences for software which students must use for specific courses.

MEDIA & DESIGN OFFICER

Refine and create an appealing social media campaign to increase awareness about upcoming events, important announcements, student resources and services, extracurricular opportunities, and initiatives promoting campus culture, diversity, and well-being.

MAIN PROPOSAL

EDUCATIONAL OFFICER

Implement small-scale career development sessions at KSU, tailored for different fields of study. These sessions will serve as opportunities for students to explore potential career paths, gain insights from industry professionals, and acquire essential knowledge for their future pursuits

STUDENT AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Improve integration of ERASMUS+ and international students through the organisation of social activities, campus tours, and orientation events

MAIN PROPOSAL

SOCIAL POLICY OFFICER

Make MUDU more accessible to students by creating a Debate Society which through regular meetings, the organisation of workshops and training sessions on debating skills, and the setting up of practice sessions can enable students to effectively participate in debates.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT OFFICER

Arts Fund:

a.Work with the financial officer to expand the Arts Fund, offering a capped fund for students wishing to invest in equipment for their artistic talent. This includes but, is not limited to fine arts, digital arts, photography, music, graphic design etc.

b.Collaborate with the financial officer to broaden the scope of the arts fund to enable students to participate in and experience national cultural events in addition to local productions.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT COORDINATOR

Host an interdisciplinary day event bringing together students from various faculties for seminars on topics such as Introduction to Digital Arts and Theatre Improvisation, alongside festivities

Explore the feasibility of offering essential student services, such as printing and stationery, on campus at affordable rates.

2. Collaborate closely with university administration to expand study facilities and their accessibility, both within the Students' House and throughout the campus.

5. Implement a Gozo liaison officer in partnership with GUG to facilitate the academic environment and university experience for Gozitan students, while also effectively addressing relevant challenges and concerns.

3. Work to expand sport-related initiatives to an international scale in collaboration with campus sports organisations, notably through participation i in the FISU World University Games.

6. Provide assistance and resources to student organisations for their development and sustainability, including regular meetings, financial aid, and equipment-lending programs.

4. Maintain and uphold KSU’s rapport with pertinent University bodies and advocate for student interests.

7. Develop a comprehensive, long term, strategic plan, in order to tackle time consuming projects spanning over one term in office.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR INTERNAL AFFAIRS

8. Strengthen campus-centred initiatives that enhance an engagement on campus and also fostering a sense of connection between KSU and students by commemorating global awareness days.

9. Set up dedicated KSU subcommittees to engage with students that are eager to help with specific projects over the year.

10. Explore the possibility of hosting the TEDxUniversityofMalta Conference, aiming to spark curiosity, inspire innovation, and empower the community through impactful ideas and dialogue.

11. Look into establishing a user-friendly system on our website enabling students to sell education-related items such as books, fostering a convenient and sustainable marketplace for academic resources.

12. Prioritise the advancing of the ongoing project to enhance the presence of green spaces on quadrangle, ensuring its contribution to a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing campus environment, whilst also developing a comprehensive management plan.

13 Establish partnerships with the University Canteen and University Chaplaincy to develop a subsidised meal program aimed at making meals more studentfriendly, including the addition of intolerancefriendly meals.

14. Undertake a comprehensive review of the KSU Parking Permit system with the objective of promoting the use of sustainable transportation methods among students.

15. Expand and enrich the facilities available in night-time study areas to further support and accommodate the academic pursuits of students during evening hours.

VICE PRESIDENT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

16. Implement sustainable initiatives and improvements to Campus and within KSU itself to cultivate a common culture of sustainability across all dimensions of campus life.

17. Strive to diversify KSU’s revenue streams as a means to reduce dependency on external funding sources.

18. Promote further exposure to student organisation the KSU’s Organisations Day and Careers Week, by giving them a bigger platform and involving them in the process of selecting companies.

19. Strengthen relationships with unions representing staff interests, with the aim of improving the quality of student life at UM.

20. Discuss the implementation of a formalised system, in order to use Campus Hub rooms as rentable spaces for student and student organisation activities.

21. Initiate discussions with UM regarding the potential implementation of enhanced security measures throughout the campus premises.

22. Continue expanding the number of corporate partners and maximise their contribution to the student body.

23. Collaborate with the Education Office to hold talks between students and Academic staff, where students can discuss improvements to university life.

SECRETARY GENERAL

24. Explore increasing the accessibility and efficiency of the current toga rental system by upgrading to a digital one, through the KSU website.

28. Develop stronger ties with local communities through outreach programs and volunteering opportunities.

25. Expand on the utilisation of the KSU Student Card, such as improving services and discounts offered.

26. Continue investing in new equipment for the rental system currently in place, aimed towards providing equipment to both students and student organisations.

27. Develop a cohesive, standard operating procedure for the KSU executive team to facilitate continuity between terms while ensuring the sustained progress of ongoing projects and initiatives.

29. Explore the implementation of charging sockets across the UM Campus, aiming to facilitate convenient access to power sources for students, faculty, and staff.

30. Revise the KSU Room Allocation Report to ensure equitable weighing for each section, prioritising initiatives that promote student activism, educational activities, and sustainability efforts.

31. Ensure the “What’s on Quad” initiative runs continuously to provide more exposure to student organisations, ensuring that all organisations are involved.

35. Manage communication with the public regarding KSU initiatives, projects and the stance of the council on National and International issues.

32. Develop PR strategies that align with the organisations’ goals and objectives.

36. Implement previously used, and novel marketing campaigns and strategies to grow the council’s reach among University Students, such as utilising more video content.

33. Aid in promoting student organisations’ work through KSU channels and initiatives.

37. Implement campaigns to promote tolerance and inclusivity for minority groups among University Students.

34. Continue promoting student organisations, as was done through the Freshers’ Video, in order for them to gain awareness amongst students.

38. Provide clear guidance and support to Students’ Fest’s Media Coordinators and Media Team, to help them in promoting the event.

39. Publish the names of students and organisations who will have their projects funded by Kokka Fondi, including a brief overview of each project, to increase awareness and incentivise others to apply, while ensuring transparency.

40. Explore the expansion of Kokka Fondi to cover a wider variety of areas, including international representation, voluntary and philanthropic initiatives amongst others.

41 Seek to offer financial literacy workshops for students and organisations, in collaboration with organisations, whilst advocating for the inclusion of financial literacy courses in students’ 6th form education to equip students with essential money management skills for their personal and professional lives.

42. Foster collaboration with academic departments, faculties, and student organisations to identify and address financial needs specific to different academic disciplines and programs, and discuss how these can be addressed by Kokka Fondi.

43. Propose the creation of an emergency fund within the organisation to offer financial support to Student Organisations affiliated with KSU during unforeseen crises or financial hardships that could lead to their dissolution. This fund would serve as a safety net, ensuring the sustainability and continuity of these organisations in times of need.

44. Research and apply for local and European funds to increase KSU’s reach and impact.

45. In collaboration with the KSU Commissioner, establish a mentorship program where experienced student leaders provide guidance and support to newer organisations in managing their resources effectively and maximizing their impact.

46. Promote and establish a student space around the medical school area, for students to study and spend their free time.

47. Work on integrating kinetic elements to enhance visual appeal and create a dynamic learning environment, fostering better retention of information among students.

48. Perform a website audit to ensure an organised, userfriendly and student targeted experience.

49. Integrate the development of an infographic series to visually communicate complex information in an easily digestible format.

50. Collaborate closely with student organisations to develop tailored promotional materials and campaigns aimed at increasing visibility and engagement.

51. Improve the look, feel and organisation of KSU’s digital services.

52. Ensure social media channels are regularly updated, maintaining connection and engagement with the audience by sharing relevant content and fostering community interaction.

53. Implement interactive elements such as polls, quizzes and posters to encourage participation and enhance community involvement.

54. Develop success story segments to showcase the impact of KSU Funds on student initiatives, displaying real life examples to inspire greater participation within the KSU community.

55. Promote active involvement and attendance at Freshers’ Week events by generating anticipation and excitement through strategic media promotion.

56. Establish collaborative partnerships with sponsors to redesign and produce merchandise that enriches the Freshers Week experience for incoming students, thereby increasing brand visibility within the new student cohort.

57. Reimagine the Students Fest branding to ensure that it embodies a celebration of students and the arts, capturing the vibrant spirit and creativity of the community.

58. Introduce more courses to KSU Academy such as digital literacy, career development, academic success strategies and life skills, and increase the frequency of courses.

59. Facilitate effective communication channels for addressing complaints and concerns between students to faculty/administration.

60. Suggest ongoing efforts to reassess CASP, that aims to ensure CASP's effectiveness and alignment with students' academic needs.

61. Continue dialogue along with student organisations within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, as well as relevant stakeholders, to collaboratively reach a resolution to the ongoing issues regarding medical school.

63. Develop a dedicated section on the KSU website containing comprehensive information about available national and international grants that students can apply for.

64. Liaise with University administration to identify and compile a list of any books or journals that are missing from HyDi and make efforts to ensure their accessibility to students.

65. Advocate for the development of timetables that better accommodate both the needs of students and increase student productivity.

66. Establish a secondary and sixth form outreach program in partnership with student organisations.

62. Liaise with the University administration to establish and promote a streamlined method for lecturers to provide feedback on assignments.

STUDENT & INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

67. Continue representing the Council and the University in the European Student Union and all other affiliations.

71. Strengthen collaboration between KSU and Student Organisations on campus through numerous initiatives and direct contact with them to unite students from different faculties.

68. Promote ERASMUS+ and other international opportunities such as ISEP and provide assistance to students interested in these programmes.

72. Aid in assisting University based Student Organisations in attaining and maintaining Voluntary Organisations recognition and compliance.

69. Collaborate with Campus Hub to aid in integrating international students with the Maltese university lifestyle.

70. Maintain and uphold the use of KSU wellbeing services such as mental health services, career counselling and academic counselling.

73. Look into the possibility of providing an increase in both voluntary & non-voluntary international internships.

74. Advocate for the integration of physical activity into campus life by collaborating with Sports related Organisations.

SOCIAL POLICY OFFICER

75. Elevate social policy discourse through a dynamic policy blog that outlines KSU’s policy orientations and priorities as well as includes submissions from students and student societies.

76. Facilitate dialogues between KSU and governmental figures, including both government officials and members of the opposition, fostering a platform for ongoing engagement and exchange of ideas.

77. Establish cross-institutional collaborations with other universities to initiate global conversations on regional social policy issues to broaden the understanding of social challenges and explore innovative solutions on an international scale.

78. Organise workshops focused on social policy writing tailored for student organisations and individuals interested in advocacy and policy development to equip participants with the necessary skills to articulate compelling arguments and effectively advocate for social change.

79. Collaborate with designated university bodies to spearhead targeted campaigns addressing pertinent social issues to mobilise resources and expertise within the university community.

80. Work with the KSU Culture team to leverage art as a medium for advancing social policy objectives through the organisation of exhibitions that provide students with a platform to contribute their perspectives on pressing social issues through artistic expression.

81. Coordinate a social policy campaign on: Active Citizenship; Accountability and Accessibility.

82. Enhance the coordination between the KSU Social Policy Office and the KSU Commission to ensure that the voices of students are truly represented in the policy efforts put forward by KSU.

83. Monitor national situations in order to ensure KSU responds rapidly following consultation with KSU Commission.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT OFFICER

84. Re-ignite Sports Week while enhancing it by implementing strategies to reach broader student bodies and boost participation.

85. Explore joint international events, in collaboration with Student Organisations to celebrate worldwide cultures.

87. Upgrade the equipment owned by KSU to make it more appealing for students to borrow, enabling them to organise larger-scale cultural events.

86. Establish a platform that facilitates networking and collaboration opportunities for artists.

88. Create an event where students can showcase their talents, such as Open Mic Night.

CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT COORDINATOR

89. Continue Students Fest while implementing initiatives to boost student engagement.

92. Continue the organisation of the annual Car Treasure Hunt.

90. Integrate the arts, humanities, and sports sectors within the Careers Expo, recognising their significant contributions to both academic and professional pursuits.

91. Organise a competing event for organisations followed by a post-event celebration such as the organisations’ BBQ amongst participating entities.

93. Execute the rebranding of the Klikka Freshers Festival, Grad Ball and Kokka Sajf.

SDM