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September 2015
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The University of the West Indies can be considered a diverse playground exploding with opportunities for self-growth, social interaction, professional development and cultural integration. Amid the hustle and bustle of racing from class to class, students genuinely seek a University experience which is significantly different from that of secondary school. This is where the focus shifts from pure academics to ‘UWI Life’ which distinguishes this prestige university from its contenders. The Guild of Students can be seen as the heartbeat of the campus as it is made of up all students who have various wants, needs and even offerings. The activities of the student body are usually decided by the Guild Council, an elected committee of 24 students, which manages the Guild funds paid during registration at the beginning of each academic year. The funds are used to host small and large scaled events, subsidise student amenities, provide students with financial assistance and cover the daily operational costs associated with the Guild office. The Guild council serves as a strong link between the students and the administration of the campus and represents the interests of all students relative to academics, student expenses and access to services, their general wellbeing and any form of injustice against students. Student Government at the St. Augustine Campus, while an important medium through which issues are addressed, takes on the other aspect of a social experience as well. Under the Guild, there are dozens of clubs and associations which are tailored to the needs of all students. You can definitely join groups relating to academic, religious, sporting, activism, humanitarian or professional interests. These groups host almost weekly events, ensuring that there is always something for students and help relieve the stress that may sometimes come while studying. Or you may decide to start a club or association of your own- just visit the Guild office and the friendly staff would be more than willing to assist. The Guild Council hosts numerous and wide-ranging annual activities. These all start with Orientation Week, the largest welcoming function for new and returning University students, held in the first week of the new semester. It offers students an opportunity to engage clubs and societies on campus that they may be of interest to them. Students can also enjoy products and services offered by sponsors, participate in fun activities hosted by different committees of the Guild Council and, essentially, make new and valuable friends and connections. The week culminates with Freshers’ Fete, an event that caters for the party animal in all of us. It is highly subsidised by the Guild, taking into consideration the average student budget. Following Orientation Week students can look forward to the various Hall Concerts which build on the talents of the students who reside at each of the Halls of Residence. Each hall hosts a concert on campus showcasing singing, dancing, acting and even fashion at its best. Speaking of fashion…students may wish to take part in UWI Style which is an event dedicated to the fashion designers and models on campus. It’s the perfect platform to launch your clothing line or try your hand at modelling. Then if you’re motivated enough, the next step may be the Mr and Miss UWIverse pageant. It would be remiss of the Guild not to ensure that the pageant focuses on intellect and character rather than simply beauty. The event is one of the more successful activities under the Guild and continues to grow beyond expectations. Another important Guild initiative is Caribbean Integration Week. Celebrating ‘Caribbeanness’ and determining where we go as a people is an important mandate undertaken by the Guild, given the cultural melting pot that is The University of the West Indies. During Caribbean Integration Week, the Guild’s International Affairs Committee oversees forums, social activities, cuisine exchanges and other meaningful events where students are encouraged to demonstrate the best of their country and people. This is undoubtedly a perfect lead up to Campus Carnival, which builds upon Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival and takes on elements of other regional Carnivals, all with an education component prior to the big day. Open to all students, it is held on the Campus itself and comprises Carnival bands with music trucks and revellers in full costume. The University of the West Indies is bursting with activity spearheaded by the Guild. So if you’re interested in student politics, personal development, and determining your future and that of your peers, toss your hat in the annual election ring. Until then be sure to participate in all that the Guild has to offer! #GetInvolved2Evolve! Nikoli Edwards BA (Hons) is Secretary of the St. Augustine Campus Guild of Students. |
