Esayidi TVET Collage Kokstad campus students are accusing the representative of the Independent Electoral Board (IEB) of failing to follow procedures. The controversy arose after students presented their manifestos for the upcoming SRC election, scheduled for March 13 2025. According to students, IEB rules state that candidates must present their manifestos individually, without mentioning their affiliated organizations. However, student’s claim that this rule was not adhered to, sparking concerns about the election’s fairness and transparency.
Despite the controversy, students are eager to cast their votes for their preferred candidates. One student expressed optimism that the incoming SRC leadership will learn from the mistakes of their previous leadership. They hope for transparency and improved communication, citing concerns that the previous SRC often sided with management, neglecting student concerns and failing to represent them effectively. The student emphasized that they expect the new SRC to prioritize students’ needs, ensuring their voices are heard and their interests are represented. This sentiment reflects a broader desire for change and improved student leadership.
He also had a message for the outgoing SRC, whose term has expired. He advised them to reflect on their mistakes and learn from them, as these lessons will be valuable for future leadership roles. He emphasized the importance of remembering the people who entrusted them with leadership positions, saying this is the reminder of the responsibility that comes with serving others.
Meanwhile, the SRC candidate for the secretary position for SASCO outlined her promises to the students. She vowed to maintain open communication channels with students, ensuring their voices are heard. Additionally, she pledged to organize events that cater to students’ interests, fostering a more engaging campus experience. The candidate also emphasized her commitment to addressing student grievances and concerns. She promised to serve as a liaison between students and management, facilitating effective communication and resolving issues promptly.
However the SRC candidates affiliating under EFF Student Command promises the students that they will listen to their cries and come up with solutions. Highlighting her promises, she vowed to address pressing issues, such as WIFI coverage, she also plan to ask permission from their lectures to have an access to printing machines that, are in labs in order for them to print because not all of them are NSFAS beneficiaries. She further promises the students to negotiate with the management that at least they must have two technicians around the campus because during exams they struggle to get help in time.
“The institution must start allowing the in-service training to be part of the academic year’s curriculum which will fall under the practical’s as well as the newly incoming SRC must negotiate and fight management with bold and to allocate stipends for students attending in services training,” said the candidates.
Update :The student elections took place on Thursday, and the results are in. In a historic victory, the EFF won all eight seats, marking the first time they’ve achieved a sweep since the college’s SRC was established. This outcome is significant, as it reflects the students’ preferences and sets the tone for the incoming student leadership.
