SU23 - Our questions to Postgraduate Education officer candidates
Questions to Postgraduate Education officer candidate, Kieran Minto
What’s your number one priority?
Kieran: I have to say the cost-of-living crisis and the wider issues around postgrad pay and working conditions, which to be honest I think should be every candidate’s focus at the moment. Many of the issues faced by students, such as growing mental health issues and a lack of engagement outside of their studies stem from this crisis. So, if we can tackle the root of the problem we may fix some other issues.
How will you make the SU and its affairs relevant to Postgraduate Students?
Kieran: A lot of it comes down to communication, many postgrads simply aren’t aware of the opportunities available for them within the SU or feel as though they aren’t welcome at things like clubs, societies or SU Council, which is such a shame. I will make sure postgrads are made aware of what’s going on, even before starting at Queen’s. Many events also feel undergrad-centric, so I think more effort needs to be made to specifically reach out to postgrads and invite them to take part. More events specifically for postgrads need to be held, and not just in September but all year round as well.
What active steps will you take to change Postgraduate funding?
Kieran: I will lobby Queen’s management to increase the number of bursaries, funds and grants provided by Queen’s itself. I will work with Queen’s as a wider institution to lobby local government departments, charities, trusts and local industry to increase the number of scholarships they fund. Alongside these, things like providing further cost-of-living payments, decreasing the cost of childcare services offered by the University and decreasing rents in accommodation will go a long way in easing the burden felt. Postgrad funding as it currently stands is unsustainable, so if Queen’s management isn’t interested in listening or taking a more active role in attracting more funding then we’ll have to go down the road of strikes, sit ins, and boycotts.
How have your personal experiences shaped your manifesto?
Kieran: In several ways. I, like every student have struggled with the cost of university these days and it’s an issue that is only getting worse. I have seen friends really struggling to pay for things and even afford food, this has to change. I have always been a keen environmentalist, so of course I noticed the distinct lack of focus the University puts on environmental issues.
I was never particularly sporty or interested in extra-curriculars in school, it was only during undergrad that I really began to take notice, and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am a passionate advocate for Clubs and taking part in the SU generally and I have always thought it a shame that it’s a part of university that many postgrads miss out on. So, postgrad inclusion is something I’ve always wanted to improve.
And finally, what three items would you bring to a desert island to pass the time?
Kieran: Assuming that food and water is magically provided, I’d probably take a guitar, I’ve always wanted to learn a musical instrument and that would be the perfect chance. A painting set, a hobby I used to have that’s fallen away as I’ve got older. Finally, channelling my inner pirate, of course a bottle of rum!
To see all the candidates running, visit the Queen’s SU website