Political fervor has gripped the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) as student organizations intensify their campaigns for the upcoming general council elections. This political activity coincides with the heat of local body polls in Kochi, setting the stage for a competitive student union vote.
Key Promises and Rival Visions
Two major student outfits, the Students Federation of India (SFI) and the Kerala Students Union (KSU), are at the forefront, presenting distinct agendas to the student body. The election of university union councillors (UUCs) is scheduled for Friday, marking a crucial phase in campus politics.
Both groups have converged on the critical issue of improving campus infrastructure. A common promise is the creation of more hostel rooms to ensure accommodation for all students. The urgent renovation of the university amphitheatre, a central hub for cultural events and student activities, is also a shared priority.
KSU's Track Record vs SFI's New Initiatives
The Kerala Students Union (KSU) is campaigning on its achievements from the previous academic year, when it ended the SFI's 30-year dominance over the campus union. KSU leaders are highlighting their efforts to secure access to the campus ground for general students, install adequate streetlights, and provide hostel rooms for transgender students.
In contrast, the Students Federation of India (SFI) has placed a hunger-free campus initiative at the core of its campaign. An SFI worker, Piyoosh E K, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "Several students eat only one meal a day. We plan to set up a dedicated space to provide food for such students."
SFI has also launched a critique against the KSU-led union's performance. They argue that the union underperformed despite the university increasing the union's budget from Rs 20 lakh to a significant Rs 37.5 lakh. KSU leaders, however, maintain that their previous union effectively addressed long-standing student issues.
Early Results and Final Countdown
In a related development that has added to the pre-election momentum, SFI has already claimed victory at the Kunjali Marakkar School of Marine Engineering, where elections were conducted last week. The outfit secured three of the four UUC posts, while KSU managed to win one seat.
As the campaign enters its final phase, students at Cusat are weighing these competing promises, with the outcome on Friday set to determine the direction of student welfare and campus development for the coming year.
