Representation and Decision-Making Power in a European Universities Alliance
By Sukh Preet Singh, U!REKA Student representative at HOGENT University of Applied Sciences and Arts
As we prepare for the next phase of the European Universities Initiative, we are entering a new stage of transnational collaboration involving students, higher education institutions (HEIs), and various external stakeholders, including cities. This initiative seeks to connect cities across borders, creating a more collaborative European education network.
From my perspective as a student representative at HOGENT and within the U!REKA alliance, I see students playing a crucial role in this framework. Rather than being passive recipients of policies, students have the opportunity to engage in decision-making processes. The establishment of a student council ensures that students’ interests are represented and considered. This body addresses a range of issues such as programme governance, mobility, infrastructure, and study support, among others.
Path to Representation
My involvement in student representation began with my election within my course at HOGENT, followed by a position on the General Student Council. Eventually, I was selected to represent HOGENT within the U!REKA alliance. The process required significant effort and commitment, but it has allowed me to participate in shaping educational policies at a broader level.
As a student representative for U!REKA, I am tasked with representing students from HOGENT on a European platform. This role necessitates adopting a transnational perspective on educational collaboration and addressing the interests of students across different countries and institutions. It also involves ensuring that external influences do not undermine the autonomy of the student body.
Achievements and Involvement
One of the most notable achievements this year has been the establishment of the U!REKA Student Council. This development ensures that students from all partner institutions within the alliance are now formally represented in discussions that affect them.
Additionally, my involvement in U!REKA has led to opportunities for participation in international student forums. For example, I attended the first European Students Union (ESU) Conference of the Alliances in Coimbra, Portugal, and participated as a panelist at the EURASHE 33rd Annual Conference in St. Pölten, Austria. These experiences provided valuable platforms for exchanging ideas on higher education policy.
For my work in promoting sustainability, smart cities, and student representation, I was named ‘Student of the Year’ by the City of Ghent. This recognition acknowledges my efforts to represent the student community both locally and internationally.
Reflections on Student Decision-Making Power
In terms of student decision-making power within U!REKA, progress has been made with the creation of the student council. However, there is still potential to enhance students’ influence on governance. While students have representation, there is room to expand our role in shaping key decisions that impact the educational experience. A more structured and impactful involvement of students would help ensure that policies align with the interests of the student body.
In summary, representing HOGENT in U!REKA involves advocating for the needs of students within a broader European framework. It is a role that requires balancing local and transnational considerations, ensuring that students’ voices are heard and reflected in decision-making processes.
Sukh Preet Singh
U!REKA Student representative, HOGENT University of Applied Sciences and Art
Sukh Preet Singh (22) is currently a student at HOGENT (Belgium) where he studies Biomedical Laboratory Technology. He’s also a student representative for the department of Health Care and for the U!REKA alliance. In his free time, he likes to run long distances and enjoy activities with his student associations. Next to his studies, he keeps participating in political activities both at the local and national level to ensure that the voice of the students is represented.
