2024 was a ‘super year’ for elections across the world, but there’s still plenty of voting to be done right here at King’s! Keep reading to learn more about the upcoming KCLSU elections and why you should get involved.
What is KCLSU and why is it important?
KCLSU is a student-led organisation devoted to representing the interests and demands of the University’s entire student community – from Strand Campus all the way to Denmark Hill.
Established by students in 1873, KCLSU aims to enhance the student experience in two major ways:
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offering a diverse range of student groups like academic associations, sports clubs and media groups
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appointing student leaders to run KCLSU and serve as a ‘voice’ for the student body by communicating our demands and advocating on our behalf to staff and policymakers across King’s.
Having a students’ union is so important because it functions independently of the University itself, making it the largest and most influential organisation at King’s led by and for the students.
How do KCLSU elections work?
Those who wish to serve as a leader within KCLSU have multiple positions to choose from. They fall within three main categories:
Full Time Student Officer
Includes:
- KCLSU President
- Vice-President (VP) Activities & Development
- VP Education (Arts & Sciences)
- VP Education (Health)
- VP Welfare & Community
- VP Postgraduate
These positions are full-time and paid.
Student Trustee
Up to four student trustee positions are up for grabs, all of which hold equal power on KCLSU’s Trustee Board each year.
The positions are part-time and voluntary.
Student Group Committee Member
All KCLSU student groups must elect a new committee of leaders every year. Positions available are determined by individual groups and usually vary depending on the size and needs of each.
These positions are part-time and voluntary.
NUS National Conference Delegate
The number of NUS delegates varies from year to year. For example, 11 students were elected in 2023 while 10 were in 2024. However, all delegates share an equal amount of responsibility in representing KCLSU at the NUS National Conference.
These positions are part-time and voluntary.
How can I run for election?
If any of these roles speak to you, here’s the general process you’ll need to follow in order to secure it:
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First, nominate yourself for the position(s) of your choice through the KCLSU website (nominations usually open towards the beginning of the second semester).
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After nominations close, you’ll be tasked with submitting a headshot, campaign slogan, and brief manifesto to help market yourself to voters.
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Shortly after, candidates for all positions are announced; ideally, you’ve already started campaigning by now.
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Finally, wait as the voting period opens (both on the KCLSU website and on campus) and then closes just a few days later.
Why should I care?
If you have any opinion whatsoever on how things like mental health support, King’s Affordable Accommodation Scheme, sustainability practices, or funding divestment should be handled, then it’s in your best interest to get involved in KCLSU elections. Those getting elected will soon play a vital role in advocating for or against policies that pertain to critical issues like these and so many more, directly affecting you and your experience at King’s.
So, whether you’re running for a leadership position or just casting a ballot, remember that your participation in KCLSU elections is key to procuring the changes and initiatives you’d like to see come to life throughout the University.