In November, UWE Student Leaders represented you at NUS Conference!

This is a national event for Students' Unions in England, held over two days. There were sessions for learning, discussion, and even lobbying. The Students' Union President, Asad, has shared his reflections from the conference.

This year there was a strong focus on cost of living challenges, and advocacy for systemic changes. I attended a session where UK-wide data was shared, and it was striking.

71% of students reported that the Cost of Living crisis has had either a major or moderate impact on their studies, at UWE Bristol that number would be about 25,000 of our students. The actions from this session were focused on giving students more money to live on, and reducing some of their major expenses. Going forward, NUS is interested in campaigning for free transport, working to control rent for students, and securing adjustments to maintenance loans- so that students can live on them!

There was a theme throughout the conference of International solidarity, and political engagement. This included an address from Dr Husam Zomlot, Diplomat and Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK. He urged students to continue to raise their voices, and that Student advocacy is necessary to liberation for Palestine. Staying with International solidarity, the NUS Scotland President reaffirmed NUS' commitment to opposing the changes proposed in the White Paper. This includes the International Student Levy, which would raise International Students' fees. I also attended Funeral for our Futures, a rally against the hostile environments and practices that can make it difficult for International Stduents to study in the UK.

I was inspired by the LGBTQ+ vigil, held on Transgender Day of Rememberance. I heard stories about people who lost their lives while fighting for their rights, and it highlighted for me the importance of continued advocacy and inclusion. This session greatly impacted my understanding of the challenges LGBTQ+ students face, and my commitment to equality was strengthened.

Ultimately, NUS Conference was a platform where I represented UWE Bristol as part of a collective voice, joining Sabbatical Officers from around the country to speak on key student issues. I also valued the opportunity to connect with the national network of Students' Union Officers, and form relationships that reach beyond the South West Region.