Our University is in crisis. Courses and jobs are being cut. Food poverty services abolished. Senior leadership resigning and a “transformation director” hired for £200,000 a year. DUSA has been quiet at defending student interests.
I am not quiet. I am not in the mood to compromise with people who are destroying our University.
Under my leadership, DUSA will break from its traditional role of brokering bad compromises with the university management and will instead mobilise and organise students.
As a Community Education student, I am professionally trained in developing the power of individuals and communities. My leadership style is to encourage others to find their voice.
As an autistic person, I know personally that the experience of powerlessness can be overcome. I have faith in your collective ability to find your power as students. I will do everything I can to help you find the power that is within you.
I promise that I will:
Thank you.
Our university should feel like home—a place where every student finds their space, their people, and their opportunities. It should be about building a community where we thrive together, the student body deserves a university experience worth remembering.
The university and Students’ Association are at a pivotal moment, rethinking their strategies and visions. This is our opportunity—your opportunity— to actively shape the plans that define our future here. With your trust and support, I want to lead with a focus on Community and Collaboration, Awareness and Engagement, and Governance and Leadership, ensuring that we leave behind a legacy of success and pride that extends far beyond my term.
You deserve a president that will make your vote count and here’s how I can do it.
Ramya Shiva – Your Voice for a Smarter Academic Experience!
As a student, I know the struggles – tight deadlines, confusing policies, and the need for real academic support. I’m here to change that. As Vice President Academia, I’ll make sure your voice isn’t just heard but acted upon.
My Manifesto:
No More Academic Hurdles:
Confusing policies? Slow feedback? I’ll break barriers and make learning seamless for everyone.
Beyond Books, Beyond Deadlines:
Education isn’t just about grades. I’ll push for better support, flexibility, and a system that values you.
Revolutionizing Learning:
Fresh ideas, smarter solutions. I’ll challenge outdated methods and bring innovations that truly enhance your academic journey.
Vote for Ramya – Because Your Academics Deserve Better!
Hello! I’m Hamish, you may know me as the Chair of the SRC from 2023-24, Treasurer of the History Society since 2022 or perhaps as the ‘Dunfess Ultra!’
Having seen the sharp increase in the interest of students in the University during this current crisis, I have decided that now is the time to get off Dunfess, and start working for YOU, the students of Dundee.
So how will I do this?
Hello, my name is Ruby Kirabo Mugisha, and I am a fourth-year International Relations and History student. I am an international student from Uganda, having grown up and lived there for most of my life. Today, I am honoured to introduce myself as a candidate for the role of Vice President of Student Well-Being at the University of Dundee. As a passionate advocate for mental health, student support, and overall campus wellness, I believe in fostering a community where every student feels heard, valued, and empowered. My involvement in actively engaged in various leadership and volunteer roles that has strengthened my passion for student welfare, inclusivity, and community support.
Through my role as Well-Being Officer for the History Society and International Officer for the African Caribbean Society, I have worked closely with students to address concerns related to mental health, academic stress, and overall well-being. Additionally, serving as Vice President of the African Caribbean Society has provided me with valuable experience in leadership, event planning, advocacy, and student support. These roles have allowed me to engage with diverse student communities and create initiatives that enhance their university experience.
Policy Statements:
I am Chethan Venkatesh – Putting Student Wellbeing First!
University life is tough—stress, deadlines, and mental health struggles. As VPSW, I’ll make sure you get the support you deserve.
My Manifesto:
Vote Chethan – Because Your Wellbeing Matters!
Hello everyone! I am Elias Eke, a postgraduate student from Africa, and I am running for Vice President of Student Wellbeing.
My decision to contest this position comes from my experience and the struggles of other international students arriving in Dundee. Many of us faced horrible challenges settling in—no clear guidance, no structured support, and the expectation to navigate everything alone.
DUSA has the potential to make Dundee a home away from home for all students. I want to strengthen support systems so no student feels lost or left alone.
If elected, I will:
International students contribute greatly to the University and economy at large, yet many struggle to settle in. I will:
Dundee is home to a diverse student body, and every student deserves a great wellbeing support.
Vote Elias Eke for a more inclusive, supportive, and thriving student community.
My name is Kyle Gray and over the years I have spent at this university, despite many trials, I am proud to call this place my home, and I aim to make it the best it can be.
During my time here, I’ve served as class rep for three years, winning an award for Best Class Rep of the Year across the entire university. My proudest achievement is being elected Deputy President of Representation for the SHSL. In this role, I have worked diligently to ensure every student under my purview is represented, ensuring all voices are heard.
I’m not here to simply wax nostalgic; I have a plan to build on the work I’ve already started. Some key initiatives include:
2. Enhancing the ways students can communicate their voices to staff and the broader student body. I plan to collaborate with the SRC to integrate their successful strategies into more university functions, the SSLC’s have too often felt like a place of worry for some reps, and I want to change that.
Over the past two years, I have served as a Class Representative for two of my modules and, this past year, I’ve had the privilege of being President of the Politics Society.
If elected, my aims are:
Strengthening Community:
A strong sense of community is crucial when choosing a university. I plan to introduce a suggestion forum to gather feedback on what kind of community events and campaigns students truly want from DUSA so we can work together to enhance the student experience.
Enhancing Community:
I want to focus on planning events and campaigns that align with significant dates and occasions that matter to students. I want to collaborate with societies, SRC Councillors, and other Exec members, incorporating their ideas and values to ensure that they play an active role in shaping DUSA events for the entire student body.
Highlighting Opportunities:
Our University offers an abundance of opportunities, but I want to make sure more students are aware of them. Whether it’s extracurricular activities, career resources, or volunteering, many valuable opportunities go underutilised. I plan to promote these opportunities through social media, email campaigns, and by collaborating with staff.
Restoring stability:
I recognise the uncertainty many students have felt recently, and I’m committed to helping rebuild trust and clarity within our community.
As VPC, I will work tirelessly to address these concerns and help to encourage a DUSA Exec that is accountable and effective. I will also use this role to create positive spaces for students to come together.
My name is Anna, I’m undergraduate Illustration student and I’m genuinly inspired by people in our University:)
My motivation to become a VP of Community appeared this year after I tried myself at different positions such as Student General Representative, Community Engagement Director in DJCAD, Volunteer in Global room, just DUSA Hospitality member and being part of Magdalen Mag, MAI Society,Student Curatorial Team and etc!
I feel so connected with this Campus and people here that I want to continue developing Community in University of Dundee, so want to present you my 3 manifesto points:
– Communication is key for ensuring that all student needs are heard and met, so you’ll definitely have opportunity to speak with me about anything!
-Providing best support to societies, event organisers, volunteers and everyone who want to contribute into the the development of Community around Campus and Online Student Community too, so they don’t feel left alone
-Being involved as member of Community myself and suggesting improvements and areas where support is needed. I’m already participating in many events and initiatives and I would love to continue!
Thank you so much, hope you will consider me for this role!
Hello! My name is Caitlin Barr, and I am a second-year Dual-Qualifying Law student at Dundee. I am running for Vice President of Fundraising on the DUSA Executive because I have always been passionate about fundraising and any role that allows me to help others. I thrive in people-focused environments, and I believe fundraising should be engaging, impactful, and, most importantly, fun!
If elected, my goal is to put the FUN back into fundraising and make it more accessible and engaging for all students. Many students don’t fully understand the impact of the Raising and Giving (RAG) initiative, and I want to change that by fostering a culture of education, transparency, and collaboration. Students should not only feel encouraged to get involved but also see the real-world effects of their contributions.
My Key Policies:
I believe fundraising should be something students actively want to engage with, not just something they feel they should do. Vote for me, and let’s make fundraising at Dundee bigger and better than ever!
Hello! I’m Tom! I am running for Vice President of Student Activity this year because I can make a difference! Over the past year, I’ve served on the SRC, as Vice President of the History Society, former class rep, student ambassador, and section editor for The Magdalen. These experiences have shown me how vital societies are to our university community, and that’s why I’m running for VPSA—to give them the voice, recognition, and support they truly deserve!
Societies are the backbone of DUSA, the unspoken heroes – Too often, they struggle with funding, visibility, and engagement. I want to change that and ensure they have support to thrive.
If elected, I will:
🔹 AMPLIFY student voices – Restructure the Society Council with Q&A sessions, expand digital engagement by revamping the Instagram page to highlight societies, and introduce cross-campus discussion forums. I’ll also host regular drop-in chats and celebrate student leaders by actively promoting their achievements.
🔹 PRIORITISE the student experience – I’ll provide hands-on support for societies, advocate for their needs at every level, and ensure they have access to the resources they deserve. Dedicated office hours, fast communication, and streamlined event planning will make societies feel heard and valued.
🔹 CELEBRATE volunteering & culture – Relaunch key volunteering initiatives, establish Dundee Legacy, and work with societies to create collaborative events like expanding the Food Festival and introduce an official University Burns Supper.
A vote for me is a vote for societies, student experience, and a thriving campus community!
My name is Zirui Li, currently a third-year Forensic Anthropology student. In my second semester. I went to Canada as an exchange student, and in my third year, I worked as the vice president of DCSSA. During my term as Vice President, I organised an English-speaking Corner, a Chinese New Year event with GR, and a CNY Gala with other Asian societies. While organising events, I found out that there are a lot of parts that DUSA can improve, so I hope that I can make up for these shortcomings by running for office or sharing my opinions with future DUSA managers so we can make our community better and better.
The first point I want to mention is increasing the diversity of DUSA’s events, ensuring that more international students, particularly those from non-native English-speaking countries. For instance, DUSA can choose a different national holiday to celebrate each month and hold an International fair during Freshers’ Week.
The second point is to strengthen the connections between clubs.
The third point is to enhance the effectiveness of the training sessions for each society’s executive committee. I have consulted with the executive committees of several societies, and they all mentioned that the training sessions lack a central focus and often cover material they already know.
If I am elected, I will:
Priority 1. Increase the diversity of DUSA events.
Priority 2. Strengthen the relationship between societies.
Priority 3. Improve the effectiveness of training meetings.
Heyyy, I’m Kieran! :)) Like a dog with a bone, I won’t let go until the job is done. The Med School President role has gone uncontested for too long, sometimes with no candidates. It’s time to step up and show you what real student leadership looks like.
Visibility matters. A president no one sees is pointless. You’ll see me, hear me, and know I’m working for you. My goal? One day, the MMSE won’t just ask who the Prime Minister is, but who your School President was.
Best known as Y2 MSC rep, I don’t shy away from tough conversations—but always with an open-door approach. Students need strong, accessible representation, and that’s exactly what I’ll deliver. Soon, finishing my BMSc in Med Ed, I won’t just have some shiny academic bling (AFHEA…), but I understand how the School functions, and I’ll use that knowledge to push for change.
My plans for YOU:
Let’s make the Med School better, TOGETHER.
Hey everyone! My name is Yana and for the last 2 years, I have worked as a Level 1&2 and Level 3 Learning and Teaching VP in the School of Life Sciences. These roles have given me invaluable experience representing the student voices, actively contributing to study program improvements and closely collaborating with the school president and academic staff members. I am running for the SLS president because my experience combined with a clear vision of the changes I want to bring to the school make me a perfect candidate for this position.
As a school president, I aim to uphold and strengthen the core school values while making impactful and meaningful changes in its social, organizational and well-being aspects. I want to ensure that every student stays informed and engaged with all upcoming events and opportunities the school offers by providing clear communication across all levels. I am also very keen on advocating for student well-being, primarily focusing on mental health awareness. I would do this by initiating engagement activities that provide enhanced support and resources. Additionally, I want to enrich the school’s social environment by strengthening connections with other schools to build a stronger sense of unity for all students across the university.
My 3 main policies:
I am highly experienced and uniquely qualified for the role of School President. With leadership roles undertaken such as Vice-President for EES & Humanities, Class Representative for Politics and International Relations & Philosophy and Facilities Representative within DUSA. I have the skills to improve the school’s structure and promote fairness and equality for all students.
As School President, I will:
By voting for me, I will bring a unique combination of vision, experience, and passion for fostering a thriving academic community. My commitment to prioritizing student success, promoting diversity and inclusion, and advocating for innovation and sustainability will ensure our university remains a leader in higher education.
Hi, I’m Craig, a second-year adult nursing student, and I’m running for School President, School of Health Sciences. Over the past two years, I’ve worked closely with the student and staff liaison committee, as School Vice President for both first and second years to achieve the best possible learning environment for all of us.
If elected, I will:
If elected, I will lead from the front and put the pillars in place to allow for progression onto a suitable successor when the time comes for me to qualify.
Dental students,
This past year it has been an honour to have represented you as President to the dental school and wider university. In this uncertain and challenging time, I believe it is important to have strong leadership from an experienced hand- which is why I am seeking re-election.
With upcoming changes to our university, it is important that dental students are not left behind other larger schools and our voices are heard.
While most of a School President’s role is away from the spotlight (basically lots of meetings) over the past year I have worked hard to build relationships with staff and university leadership ensuring that we are represented and change made when needed.
If reelected, I will continue to lead and strengthen our class representative system, so every student has a clear and accessible way to raise concerns and suggest improvements. I will continue building on the progress made so far.
This is an important year for the dental school and I promise to ensure dental students remain at the forefront of university discussions.
This year, I stepped into the role of Business School President and found a system that didn’t exist. No structure, no standard practices—nothing. A Business School should lead by example, yet we were missing even the basics. I’ve spent the past year learning, building relationships, and preparing for real change—and now I’m ready to make it happen.
But let’s be clear—I’m not here to turn you into a hardcore student. Life exists outside university, and your student experience should be a balance of academics, industry skills, and a social life worth remembering.
If I’m re-elected, I’ll develop a Business School handbook over the summer to create a structured, accountable class rep system. This will include clear roles, an interview process, and an annual business-style calendar—so reps actually have a purpose and your course experience improves.
Beyond class reps, my job isn’t just to push the school for change—it’s also to work with societies to give you the best student experience possible. I’ve already met with every Business School society, and I’ll work with them to improve events, create exclusive networking opportunities, and make sure they actually serve you—both socially and professionally. Expect exclusive nights out, real career connections, and a student experience that finally works for you.
If you want a better Business School, a stronger network, and a student life that actually delivers—vote for me. I’ve done the groundwork. Now, let’s finally give the Business School the structure, support, and student experience it deserves.
Have you ever met Heidi?
I’m Heidi Le, a third-year Graphic Design student. For two years, I’ve been a DJCAD Student Ambassador, Graphic Design Class Rep, and DJCAD Student Committee Member, working closely with former presidents Ivy and Jo.
I’m running for DJCAD Student President to strengthen our creative network, expand opportunities, and ensure everyone gets the most from DJCAD’s resources while having the best experience possible!
My Key Priorities
Increasing DJCAD’s visibility
Maximizing DJCAd’s Resources
– Help students make the most of our incredible but sometimes hidden resources. I’ll work on getting workshop and facility information on social media and hopefully on DJCAD’s Instagram so you know what’s available!
Connecting YOU to the Creative Industry
– Organise student-led webinars with alumni and industry professionals!
– Host portfolio reviews, careers talks, and networking events specifically for DJCAD Students!
Vote Heidi for Student President, let’s make DJCAD bold and artsy!
Manifesto:
Hi, I’m Connor, and I’m running for student president because I believe I can bring about positive change within DJCAD. Being vice president of General Foundation and a student rep has given me the skills and experience to stand up for my fellow students. Having faced ignorance and carelessness in prior education, I strive to listen and respond to all issues raised with me in a timely and respectful manner, working with others to reach solutions, not vague answers and avoidance.
Policies:
Experience that counts
After a year on the University Court, I’m delighted to be standing for re-election as your Independent Member of Court (IMC).
In the last year, I’ve worked hard to ensure student voices are heard on Court, pushing for better communication and fighting alongside you to restore funding for the Campus Pantry. If re-elected, I will continue to work with DUSA to secure this funding for the long term.
Alongside this, I’ve served as Vice Chair of the SRC and I’m proud to have a 100% attendance record at both Court and SRC this year – because representing you means showing up every single time.
I also have three years’ worth of experience as a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and have served as a Trustee of two charities.
Accountability
Last year, I pledged to make the IMC role more accountable. I’ve delivered on that promise.
Since October, I’ve provided verbal and written updates at every SRC, keeping students informed and able to scrutinise my work.
If re-elected, I’ll continue working to find more and better ways of keeping you updated.
Passionate about Dundee, realistic about our challenges
I love our university and Dundee, I was born here and have lived nearby in Angus all my life. Whilst I’m hopeful for our future, I’m also aware that this is the most challenging period in our university’s history.
In times like these, we deserve an experienced voice on Court. That is why I’m ready to keep fighting for you.
Hey, I’m Clara, a first year PhD student based in Psychology and Computing. I have been involved in student representation since 2020, and was President of the School of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Law in the final year of my undergraduate. In 2023, I stepped up at a time when the university was experiencing conflict resulting from programme closures and redundancies as different disciplines were merged together to form what is now the university’s biggest school. Now that the University of Dundee is facing an even bigger crisis, I want to make sure that our student voice is strong and clear.
As Independent Member of Court, I will draw on my experience studying, teaching, and engaging with students and staff across the university for the last five years. The next year at court might very well determine Dundee’s future for the next decades, so it is absolutely crucial that our interests are represented as well as possible.
If elected, I will hold myself accountable to the following values:
Let’s work together. For Dundee!
Hello! I’m Callum, a 4th-year medical student running for the role of SRC Chair.
Why I’m running:
I bring extensive experience in facilitating meetings and leading teams. I’ve served on the executive committee of a charitable organisation, led a charity music festival for the society I co-founded in 2022, and contributed to the University Society Funding Panel. I’ll strive to build a stronger partnership with the University Executive Group, demand accountability and ensure that students continue to shape key decisions.
Maggie Chapman for Rector – Standing WITH Students
The University is in crisis. I am the only candidate with a plan to end that crisis.
As your Rector I will:
Now is the time for a Rector who can be a strong voice for students at the top of the university. Students need all the support you can get. And the staff who create your learning conditions and your university experience also need our support.
When I was Rector at Aberdeen, I stopped the university cutting jobs and courses. I know how to represent student interests. And I know how to win.
I know how to make my voice heard at the top of the university. I will ensure your voices are front and centre of university discussions, and put the case for students in a way that stops cuts.
The secrecy around the university’s financial situation is totally unacceptable and I will demand transparency and clarity on the finances and so much more. The secrecy must stop!
But this is not just about the University. Students are facing higher rents, poor accommodation and rogue landlords. You know too well that students are forced to pay high rents for low quality housing. I am leading the campaign for rent controls and rights for renters across Scotland, and students will benefit from this.
I am an experienced human rights and social justice campaigner. I will work tirelessly to promote equality, diversity and inclusion on campus and beyond.
At a time of global insecurity and instability, I will stand up for the whole student body. For international students, for those displaced from Ukraine, for those horrified by the genocide in Gaza.
I have over 10 years of experience as an academic, and a solid record of campaigning for free education – because education is a universal good. I am committed to democratic governance, and I know how to work for political change.
I will listen to you, campaign for you, and work hard for you.
Vote Maggie Chapman #1 for:
Resistance to cuts
A rent freeze
An end to university secrecy
Student support as a priority
Solidarity
Having already served one term as Rector it has been my pleasure and privilege to be able to represent the students at the University which did so much to help shape my future. It is currently a very challenging time for this University as it is for all Universities in Scotland. I am keen to be afforded the opportunity to continue to support the University Executive with making sure that Dundee University has a prosperous and successful future, and that attending this institution can be a badge of honour for all the University’s current and future students. Student life is about much more that just the Academic and it important to me that the student union building is physically restored to the point where it can be the hub of student life, or that an equivalent facility is provided to serve that purpose.
If re-elected I will make every effort to represent the whole of the student body fairly and to be willing channel for the student body to make their feelings heard.
Keith Harris OBE
It has been an absolute privilege to serve the student body, first as a student executive and now as a nominee for Rector.
The role of Rector is more than a symbolic position. It requires a deep understanding of the university’s values and governance structures, along with a strong bond with staff and, most importantly, students.
Through my various roles within the student body and the university, I have gained these experiences firsthand. I have built meaningful relationships, developed negotiation skills, navigated administrative processes, demonstrated transparency and, above all, truly listened to and amplified the student voice. Throughout my journey, I have learned how to navigate the complexities of the university, fostered the right connections to advocate for student concerns and I have maintained a commitment to ensuring the student voice is always at the forefront.
It is no secret that the university is in a challenging position. Rapid changes and major decisions are being proposed to steer it forward. My commitment is to work closely with the student body, the SRC and elected executives to ensure every decision is made through robust consultation and that transparency and timely communication remain priorities. As I have often emphasised, students are the most important stakeholders in the university, yet too often the most overlooked.
I am also committed to prioritising transparency on key student concerns, including cost-of-living relief measures such as the breakfast club and campus pantry, as well as providing clear updates on the restoration of closed student spaces due to RAAC. Visibility and accessibility of the Rector are crucial. As a student, I sometimes wished I had more opportunities to engage with my Rector, which is why I pledge to hold recurring Rector surgeries, with frequency and dates to be determined in consultation with the DUSA executives, Sports Union and the SRC.
As a former student, I firmly believe the best person to represent you is someone who understands your struggles and relates to the issues that matter most. This requires a balance of youth and experience, and I am ready to advocate on your behalf, leveraging all my experience with dedication and integrity.
The Office of Rector carries great responsibility, and with that comes the duty to maintain the trust placed in me. If elected, I promise to always stand for decisions that serve students’ best interests, to be approachable and willing to listen to all, and to use my experience to ensure every student feels heard, valued, and truly recognised as the heart of our university.
Yours Truly
Mubarak
Dear Members of Dundee University,
I am honoured and truly excited to accept the nomination to stand as your University Rector. As a proud advocate for student-focused progress and empowerment, I believe I could bring a fresh enthusiasm and perspective while promoting a thriving environment for every student at Dundee.
My interest and commitment to this role stems from my belief and experience in the unbelievable power of education. I am a personal example of its ability to transform lives, having built my own businesses and my recent career around my education and the opportunities it has given me. Subsequently, my current relationships with sporting providers and activity coordinators, along with nutrition brands, could bring a unique element to on-campus activities and for students’ educational experience.
Dundee University has long been a beacon of excellence in this city, producing graduates who have gone on to make real meaningful contributions to society. I know at this time it’s crucial that we collectively continue to ensure the university is seen in its best light, celebrating the many successful years of education it has provided, and the vibrant community it fosters.
As your Rector, I will nurture and promote initiatives that put students at the heart of the university’s growth. I believe that progress is measured not just in academic success, but in the holistic development of each individual. Whether it’s supporting mental health resources, physical activity and its monumental benefits, ensuring equal opportunities, or pushing for innovative ways to engage with the student body, my focus will always be on instilling an environment where students can thrive academically and personally.
Additionally, my own career path, having become an inspirational Scottish role model appearing regularly in the media, presents a unique platform for Dundee University. I see this as an opportunity to highlight the inspiring stories of our students and the role of strong individuals and of course women as future leaders in shaping a more progressive society. By using this platform, I aim to elevate the voices of those who may not always be heard and to bring positive attention to the incredible work being done within this university community.
Together, I would love to build on the proud legacy of Dundee University and ensure it remains a place where students not only succeed, but are empowered to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact.
Thank you for considering me as your next University Rector.
Sincerely,
Sheli J McCoy
Essentially, the role of VPF is what you make it, you get to use your skills passions and interests to shape the future of fundraising on campus. Practically this looks like running events and campaigns to raise money for the RAG Charity of the year, chairing RAG Committee meetings and building relationships with the chosen Charity and your RAG Ambassadors.
Voluntary role
School Presidents work closely with your school’s Vice Presidents, Class Reps and academic staff to ensure representation reaches every level in your School.
This opportunity allows you to achieve change by working with your school on student issues, attending important School meetings and being a voting member of the Students’ Representative Council (SRC).
To run you need to be a registered student of the School you wish to be School President for.
The School President has a range of important tasks that they take on and it is a role that can demand a lot of time and dedication.
Tasks include:
