Just like voting in a local election, it’s important to have your say. This March, you will elect your new Student Executive Officers for 2021-2022. If the last year has proven anything, it’s that your student voice is stronger than ever and, right now, it is imperative you choose passionate representatives to bring about real change for all students at DMU. As the officers work to serve you, your vote matters!
Not yet convinced about why you should vote this week? We spoke to the two outgoing Executive Officers to find out why it is key to take part in the upcoming De Montfort Students Union (DSU) Elections, as a DMU student.
- This is your Students Union
DSU is run by students, for students. If you want to see change on campus, or on your course, your elected Executive Officers can make it happen by lobbying the University on your behalf.
Diya Rattanpal, Equality and Diversity Officer at De Montfort Students’ Union, says:
“I think it’s so important that you vote because you need the people that you believe will do that and do it to the best of their ability. Make sure you’re voting to get the people that you need. Think for yourself and reflect, what do I need as a student? It’s great to know that you had a choice in what happened.”
2. The people you elect make a difference
The elected officers genuinely have the ability to make real change to your university experience. Previous officers have changed the student representative system to include a more diverse range of students, created a personal tutor system, brought in a new anonymous marking policy, implemented by the University, and much more.
Each candidate has a written manifesto, which shares why they are running and what they will work towards if they are elected – you can find out about all the candidates and their ideas here! These will be worked on from July 2021 when the new officer team is in post.
3. Hold your leaders accountable
Laura Flowers, Academic Officer at De Montfort Students’ Union has been largely involved in representing students and their thoughts to ensure that student voice is taken into account by the University during the pandemic.
“The Students Union will need strong leaders to be able to guide the university into ensuring that your student experience is key to every single decision they make along the route. It’s about choosing the people who can ensure that university is worth every penny of student’s money.”
If the next Executive Officer team doesn’t fulfil their manifestos, you have every opportunity to ask them why!
4. Every vote counts
Representation runs through the heart of De Montfort Students Union. Elections are significant because they ensure that the Union is democratic, and more importantly, student-led in every way it can be. Make the most of the power you’ve been given and have your say, as there have been elections in Students’ Unions across the country that were decided by 1 or 2 votes.
Any DMU student is eligible to vote in these elections, and it is encouraged that you participate to ensure that the right people will be running your Union for the next academic year. If you do not want to vote for any of the candidates standing, there is also the option of voting for re-open nominations (RON).
5. Your chance to win
Cast your vote today in this year’s elections and you’ll be put into a prize draw to win a selection of prizes including Nando’s vouchers and a Nintendo Switch! The more people who vote, the more prizes will be unlocked so make sure you spread the word. To be entered into the prize draw you must vote in the 2021 De Montfort Students’ Union Election. Terms and conditions apply.
This is your chance to take part in deciding who leads your Union for the next 12 months. It’s time to take an interest, to ask the questions you want to know the answers to and let your voice be heard. So, who will it be?
Don’t get stuck on mute, spark the change by using your right, your vote and your voice. Voting is now open, and closes on Monday 15th March 2021 at 7pm GMT.
