► October 2008 Information

UBU ELECTIONS - 23rd October 2008

The UBU Autumn elections are taking place on the 23rd October, where the posts of Disabled Students Officer, LGBT Officer and Mature Students Officer will be up for grabs, as well as representatives for senate, council and NUS.

Elections are governed by elections committee under supervision of Union council. Elections committee sets the polling and publicity regulations: click here for a copy.

Key Dates

Hustings - questions to candidates - live in the atrium from 18:30 on Monday 20th October. You can also listen to it live on RamAir 1350AM (www.ramair.co.uk)

Voting takes place in the locations below on Thursday 23rd October.

Union Reception...            09:00 - 17:30
JB Priestley Library...        09:00 - 18:00
Richmond Building Atrium...    09:00 - 18:00
School of Health...            12noon - 14:00
School of Management...        12noon - 14:00

The election count will commence after the polls close and the results will be announced live in the Courtyard on the evening, as well as on RamAir 1350AM (www.ramair.co.uk).

The Voting Procedure

All students are elligible to vote but you must take your student card with you to the polling booth. Each student is only allowed to vote in each position once, voting for the candidates in order of preference, voting for RON (Re-open nominations) if you don't want to vote for any of the candidates.

When the results are counted, for each position the candidates that fail to reach the quorate (required number of votes, 50%+1) are eliminated and their votes are allocated to the other candidates in order of preference.

Check below for the information on the candidates so you can make an informed decision!

Candidate Information

Below is a list of who is standing with manifestos - where available.

SENATE: POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH

Hatem El-Gohary

I am Hatem El-Gohary, a PhD student at Bradford University. Based on my experience as the last year postgraduate research student representative in Bradford University Senate, I am standing for the position of postgraduate research student’s member at Senate not only to represent PGRS within it but also to ensure that their needs are listened to and met both effectively and efficiently.

I know that I am the person capable of dealing with the PGRS issues and I am standing for this position to support all our PGS and to be their voice within the University Senate.

SENATE: POSTGRADUATE TEACHING

Peter Hill

Dear Friends, I’m running for Senate because I believe students need a strong voice in the Senate to ensure we get the best possible education, facilities, conditions and student experience.   Having spoken to many of you I understand and share your concerns.  I want to give my experience and skills to YOU!  I want to amplify your opinions and views to the University Senate! 

I will work hard prevent any further rises in fees, and ultimately to have them abolished completely.  Together, we can achieve this! 

A vote for me is a vote for a STRONG EXPERIENCE student advocate!

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Jonathan David Dixon

I graduated in CSA and am now studying for a Masters in Network Security so I have been involved with the University for the past 3 years.

Currently Web Officer for A.A. and Secretary of Katana Ju-Jitsu club, I drive the S.U. minibus and I am a Halls Warden for Forster Hall. 

Students are not always informed of changes affecting them until too late to have input or raise objections.  I would ensure that good communications are established to avoid this. If elected, I would represent the views of all students, undergraduates, postgraduates, full or part-time, mature or with disabilities.

SENATE: UNDERGRADUATES

Aramide Daramola

I will be your consistent voice and representative on Council and Senate, that way, I can hear your academic concerns first-hand in council through your course reps and that will greatly influence how I represent us at senate and my input to academic policies.

It is time for the students, especially the faith and ethnic students to be heard. I am going to work in your interest and get your concerns shown in every policy passed in our Union, University and even at National level. 

Vote Aramide Daramola No.1 and we can be the change we want!

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Mateusz Robert Wysocki

The reason why I am running for the University Senate is that it meets from 2 to 3 times a year. And I don’t mean it doesn’t require much effort. My point is that it’s quite hard to facilitate in this illusion of democracy within just one term of office. My previous experience as undergraduate senator enables me to point out at least some of the deceptions and manipulations of the system and gives arguments for limiting my trust in some actions of the Senate. This experience will enable me to protect your interest more effectively.

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Thulani Lisa Ngwenya

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.

COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Asim Ajmal

Policies:
To raise the profile of faith societies on campus.
To improve faith facilities on campus.
To increase club and society funding.
To provide increased support and guidance in combating Islamophobia and other
biases against people of faith, as well as those people of minorities.
To provide a channel for students to raise any issues, and to make the officers
of our Students’ Union accountable!”

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Jonathan David Dixon

I graduated in CSA and am now studying for a Masters in Network Security so I have been involved with the University for the past 3 years.

Currently Web Officer for A.A. and Secretary of Katana Ju-Jitsu club, I drive the S.U. minibus and I am a Halls Warden for Forster Hall. 

Students are not always informed of changes affecting them until too late to have input or raise objections.  I would ensure that good communications are established to avoid this. If elected, I would represent the views of all students, undergraduates, postgraduates, full or part-time, mature or with disabilities.

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Ahmad wahaj Yasin

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Peter Hill

Dear Friends!  I’m running for Union Council because the position requires someone with experience of policy formulation, financial management and advocacy.  I’ve spoken to many of you and share your feelings about how the union could best be improved and I want to help you achieve that change.  Bradford is a great place to study, but it could be an AMAZING place!  By bringing my experience and assertiveness to this position, I believe I can help us all to work together to achieve this.  A vote for me is a vote for a STRONG and EXPERIENCED voice on the council!

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Mateusz Robert Wysocki

Bernard Baruch once said “Vote for the man who promises least; he’ll be the least disappointing.” The problem with eye-catching slogans is that they vanish after elections. That’s probably because promises are like babies: easy to make and hard to deliver.]

I’m an honest person with strong values, and I am always open to take on board everyone’s views. I would represent the interests of all students, regardless of their religion, nationality or any social division. As a councilor I’ll find it essential to have good communication with students, so that the most important issues can get on the agenda.

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Andrew Stephen Gutteridge

Dear Union,

My name is Andrew Stephen Gutteridge. Graduating with honours on the BSc Computer Animation & Special Effects course. I am now currently studying on the MA Animation course.
Next summer me and my friends will be starting our own company, while studying our Phd’s.
Being part of the Union Council will give me an opportunity to play a more central role within the University. Help put forward my own and other student’s opinions on resolving any problems that arise.
I wait in anticipation of your answer to my application.

Regards,
Andrew Gutteridge BSc    

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Shelina Jilani

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Aramide Daramola

Vote me in, you will be voting for 100% representation, the best you can get and make UBU better for us and those coming after us.

I am a student who wants to see a change in our governance. I stand for fair and including democracy. I have experience in Council and in representing you. You can be sure to get your views across effectively.

As a faith and ethnic student, I will make sure our interests are heard and respected, aim for fair representation, at all levels.

Vote Aramide Daramola No.1 and we can be the change we want!

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Arwa Almari

As an active member of several student societies, I have participated in organising many successful events across campus that helped build Bradford University’s community and enhanced understanding and tolerance on its diverse campus. I have represented you at NUS conference, and would like to continue to represent you through union council where I will relay your concerns and work towards resolving them by proposing and passing motions mandating the union to take action.

My involvement in the Students Union has given me an insight into student politics and has made me an ideal candidate for union council.

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Thulani Lisa Ngwenya

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Saiqa Sharif

I’m currently studying for my Masters in Forensic Archeology and CSI. I’d like to ensure the representation of views at home, post graduate students on council. I’ve been at Bradford University for three years and I’ve an adequate feel for the issues which are most pressing for students at Bradford. I’ve been an active member of ISOC and was the PR officer. I’ve also presented radio shows on Ramair and received an award for the most interesting show last year. In this regard I’ve had much contact with the union and would now like the opportunity to give something back!

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Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.

LGBT OFFICER

Jess Bradley

In my capacity as Political Secretary for the Bradford LGBT Society, I ran successful campaigns on LGBT and Faith, Trans awareness and LGBT Asylum, as well as helping organising Bradford Pride Festival. I plan to build on this experience if I am elected as LGBT Officer, campaigning on issues that affect the LGBT community; focusing on making these issues visible within the Union and University as a whole.
I also want to prioritise welfare issues for LGBT students, and offering support to them when necessary.

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Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.

DISABLED STUDENTS OFFICER

Hatem El-Gohary

I am Hatem El-Gohary, currently a PhD student at Bradford University. My plan of action for the next year will be:-
1- To raise awareness about issues related to Disability and DS.
2- To provide disabled students with all the support that they need

    I know that I am the person capable of dealing with the disability issues within the university and. I am standing for the position of Disability officer to support all our disabled students and to be the voice of the voiceless.

---

Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.

MATURE STUDENTS OFFICER

Sally Binns-Hall

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Edward Mowlam

Hi I’m a final year Law student and hope to become Mature Students’ Representative.

Before Uni I had a successful career as a chef. In 2007 I helped create Bradford’s Law Society and I continue this year as President. I am Trustee for Bradford Cyrenians, a charity combating homelessness. This summer I managed Abigail House, a housing association and advisory service for refugees.
 
I love discussion, music, good food, and much more. Bradford has been home for seven years and I’m dedicated to improving the student experience here. I will work hard, perform my duties and strive to benefit all.

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Peter Hill

Dear Friends, I’m running because I care passionately about mature students and the deal we get from the University and the Union.   After speaking with a wide range of students I’ve found that there are many issues that you want me to fight on, such as security around campus, the quality of the Courtyard and the Basement, and most importantly the general lack of support we’re given from some lecturers.  I also want continue the fight against all fees as I believe that education should be a right, not a privilege.  I will be a strong voice for all students. 

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Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.

NUS CONFERENCE CANDIDATES

Hibah Al-ramadhani

Hi, I’m Hibah and a fourth year Pharmacy student.  I’ve been an active member on several of the union’s societies and a course representative for the fourth year running!

The initial governance review brought about much scepticism among students, including myself, as it sought to redress the balance of students on the governing board, ultimately diluting the vitality of the student movement.  Although it has gone under reformation, we need students like me to ensure the new review actually meets the needs of students. Elect me to ensure that we maintain a democratic national union, run for and by students!!!

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Mateusz Robert Wysocki

I am running for the NUS delegation because I was encouraged by a friend, who was a NUS delegate last year. I have heard about some NUS issues and I think I’m reasonable enough to follow the right direction and represent you on national level. I might not have the experience myself but I do have the commitment, interest and support necessary to do my best, if only you give me a margin of trust.

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Arwa Almari

Previously, students at Bradford voted for me as a representative at NUS’ annual conference where, as promised, I voted against the governance review in order to protect the democratic structure of the student movement. After the proposals were defeated at the conference, NUS proposed a new constitution which is yet to be published. I will study with scrutiny the proposals until I arrive at the decision that best reflects the opinion of Bradford university students. I have defended your voice and your right to fair representation at the last conference and will continue to do so at the upcoming conference.

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Sophia Coles-Riley

I am the most experienced candidate; I have represented Bradford at 8 NUS Conferences. I know how the system works and have the confidence to make sure Bradford’s voice is heard.

NUS is trying to force through regressive “reforms”. We beat them last time, we will again.

We must demand:
* Only students in charge- No to external trustees and the undemocratic board
* Policy should be written by students - No to stitch ups at ‘zone conferences’
* Part Time Officers must be fairly paid and fully empowered- No to discrimination against poor and minority students.

Vote Sophia #1

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Ahmad wahaj Yasin

Being selected for the NUS conference would enable me to:-

1)    Affect any amendments made in regards to the governance review. The derivative of Democracy is from the Greek word ‘dimokratia’ which means in literal terms ‘rule by the people’. For any significant progress to be made by the NUS this fundamental premise must be adhered to.

2)    Play a significant role in addressing injustices nationally as well as on a global scale through various methods including campaigning.

I believe my sheer determination, fresh approach and staunch mindset make me an ideal candidate for the NUS conference.

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Lloyd Russell-Moyle

What the heck is NUS, a discount card or a Union? NUS has been run down by years of New Labour careerists. I’m an officer at Bradford, and what’s important, isn’t my career or “status” but it’s the view of our members, and achieving for students.

NUS must be reformed but to make it better not worse, in 2007 I voted against the reform, then in 2008 I voted wrongly in favour -  we should’ve demanded more – I will make sure that we vote against change proposals unless NUS is run wholly and exclusively by grassroots students not “externals”.

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Peter Hill

Dear Friends, I’m standing to be part of the UBU delegation to the NUS conference because I believe the NUS aren’t being assertive enough.  The real issues aren’t being addressed because politicians are ignoring the NUS.  We need to be mature, measured, and make sure our voice is united and coherent.  As a mature post-graduate I believe I am the right person to take UBU’s views to the conference and to ensure we get the outcomes we want.   I believe that student fees need to be ABOLISHED and we need more financial support for ALL including internationals, post-grads and part-timers! 

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Thulani Lisa Ngwenya

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

[No manifesto submitted]

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Aramide Daramola

Having interviewed some past delegates, the stories we have heard from NUS Conferences has been a disgrace - students from opposing political parties turning out conference into a battle ground, this must stop! We must restore our democracy and the pressing issues affecting students must be addressed.
I am going to conference to be this change. I will make sure we take only your pressing needs and that they are heard!
I will Campaign and promote free education, no spying on students, equality at all levels.
Vote Aramide Daramola No.1 and we can be the change we want!

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Re-Open Nominations

Should you be unhappy with all the candidates or you feel that someone else should be given the chance to stand, you may vote to Re-Open Nominations (RON). RON appears on all ballot papers in exactly the same way as other candidates, and reaches the quota of 50% plus 1 of the votes cast, then no-one is elected to the post. Instead, nominations are re-opened and a by-election is held.

Any student may run a RON campaign for any position, though the election regulations impose certain limitations. If you wish to know more contact David Smith, the Assistant Returning Officer, before Monday 20th October.