SRC Unveils Ambitious Policies: A Blueprint for Transformation at UMaT

The University of Mines and Technology's Student Representative Council (SRC) marked the initiation of the semester with a dynamic first general meeting on Sunday, 28th January 2024, at 7:40 PM in the Mini Auditorium. The meeting, which was graced by a diverse array of participants, commenced with an opening prayer led by Hon. Joana Amoako Siaw, the 2nd Deputy Chief of Staff.

The proceedings unfolded with the Public Relations Officer (PRO) Daniel Abraham Denteh, extending a warm welcome to all attendees, setting the stage for an evening filled with insightful discussions and collaborative initiatives. The welcome address was delivered in tandem with the Deputy PRO, Prince Bofah Jnr creating an atmosphere of unity and cooperation.

The notable personalities present at the event included the Presidents of the Gold Refinery Hall (GRH) and Chambers of Mines Hall (CMH), the SRC/Local NUGS Women's Commissioner, the Local NUGS President, the Local NUGS Secretary, the SRC Welfare Chairman, the Presidential Advisor, and the Executive Council. The presence of these esteemed individuals underscored the collective commitment to student affairs and the determination to contribute to a vibrant and inclusive university community.

As the meeting progressed, the President presented a comprehensive policy document titled "The Fundamental Book of the People." This visionary document outlined the SRC's mission to responsibly conduct students' affairs and manage resources. The policies, ranging from academics to sports, aimed at unleashing the potential of UMaT students and fostering an environment conducive to growth and development.

Unleashing the Melioristic Leadership

The policy document, delivered by SRC President H.E. Frimpong Manso Emmanuel, is a call to "Unleash the Value" placed in the SRC's greatest asset—the students. It emphasizes the vision of positioning the SRC to empower students and build a socio-economic and infrastructural system of governance that is both responsible and unbendable.

Academics: Empowering the Future

The academic section of the policy document focuses on unleashing financial brilliance among students. It outlines plans for financial literacy initiatives, including practical experiences through financial summits and targeted academic support for students who face challenges in specific courses.

Governance: Inclusive and Transparent Leadership

President Manso's administration aims to enhance gender diversity and uphold integrity through an Anti-Corruption System of Governance. The administration promises inclusive student-executive collaboration, with regular open discussions, fostering a productive relationship with students.

Accommodation: Affordable Hostel Fees and Universal Connectivity

Recognizing the financial burden of hostel fees, the SRC plans to engage in constructive dialogue through the Affordable Hostel Fees Initiative (AHFI). This initiative aims to negotiate standardized annual percentage increments to alleviate financial strain. Additionally, the Universal Wireless Connectivity Program seeks to reduce students' data expenses.

Security: Night Watch and Safeguarding Your Journey

A pioneering initiative, "Night Watch," proposes collaborating with hostel managers to secure additional night security services. This strategy aims to enhance safety and security for students within strategic vantage points leading to hostels.

Health: Empowering Lives Through Health Initiatives

Under health initiatives, the SRC plans to organize free health screenings to detect diseases, including hepatitis B. First aid training and active lifestyle programs like health walks and cleanup exercises are also proposed to promote a healthier student community.

International Students: Bridging the Language Gap

Recognizing the diverse global community, the SRC plans to organize English language classes to bridge language barriers and promote cultural exchange, ensuring the inclusivity of all students.

Cardet Corps: Harmony Unleashed for Success

The policy proposes acquiring musical instruments for the cadet corps, aiming to elevate training and create revenue-generating opportunities through performances.

Entertainment: Unleashing the Power of Fun

An exciting array of entertainment programs, from concerts to relationship discussions, promises to bring excitement and rejuvenation to the university experience.

Sports: Enhancing Facilities and Performance

Recognizing the importance of sports, the SRC plans to invest in enhanced sports facilities, training programs, and talent identification to improve sports performance on campus.

Special Interventions: Electronic Billboards and Financial Efficiency

Innovative solutions like electronic billboards for communication and the acquisition of a PA system and canopies aim to enhance communication efficiency, embrace sustainability, and generate revenue.

Value Addition: Beyond Degrees

The "Value Addition 2.0" initiative seeks to cover 50% of fees for students to enroll in short-term certificate courses, empowering them beyond traditional degrees.

Religious Groups Support Fund: Fostering Inclusivity

Supporting religious bodies and addressing challenges faced by groups like the Blasters, the SRC aims to create an environment that accommodates various religious beliefs.

Water Processing Plant: Sustainability and Revenue Generation

A forward-thinking initiative, the SRC-owned water processing plant, aims to provide essential services, generate revenue, and offer practical experience to chemical engineering students.

Laptop Servicing Skills Acquisition Hub: Technical Empowerment

The Laptop Servicing Skills Acquisition Hub (LASSA-FLS Hub) aims to empower students with essential laptop servicing skills and provide free laptop services to enhance technical capabilities.

Special SRID Projects: Elevating SRID Campus Life

Special projects at the School of Railway and Infrastructural Development (SRID) include the acquisition of ATM machines, the construction of a basketball court, an SRC printing press, an SRC bus, and a serene summer hut.

Local NUGS Secretariat Policies: Holistic Support

The Local NUGS Secretariat introduces various projects, including support for the acquisition of essential documents, health screenings, excellence awards, financial projects, educational initiatives, entrepreneurship promotion, and sporting activities.

In the spirit of embracing progress and unleashing potential, the UMaT SRC, under the leadership of H.E. Frimpong Manso Emmanuel, sets a transformative agenda for the 2023/2024 academic year. These ambitious policies, if effectively implemented, have the potential to reshape the student experience, foster inclusivity, and elevate the University of Mines and Technology to new heights. The student body eagerly anticipates witnessing the tangible impact of these visionary initiatives as the semester unfolds.

The vote of thanks was delivered by the Women's Commissioner (WOCOM), expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts that characterized the meeting. The Speaker concluded the event with closing remarks and a prayer, marking the successful inauguration of the semester with a collective commitment to transformation, progress, and unity.