Newly elected president of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Guild of Students, Azzar Williams, is calling for restoration of the Guild’s financial autonomy, noting that excessive administrative oversight had systematically undermined student leadership.
He said reclaiming financial independence was crucial to empowering student representatives and ensuring that the needs of the student body were met without bureaucratic roadblocks.
Williams, a Vincentian national who secured victory in last week’s elections with 246 votes, winning by a margin of 60 votes, said restoring control would empower student representatives to better serve the interests of students.
“The Guild has been marginalised in terms of decision-making powers, particularly regarding finances,” Williams said in an interview.
“Right now, a lot of the powers that the Guild should have, it doesn’t. Our ability to organise activities and respond to student needs effectively has been limited. We need to bring back that control to the students.”
Williams, who previously served as the Guild’s public relations officer and is also president of the Vincentian Students’ Association, noted his ongoing discussions with the administration, stressing his commitment to building on his relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate productive negotiations.
“I already have a strong working relationship with different departments and I plan to continue those discussions in a way that fosters cooperation while ensuring that students’ voices are truly represented,” he said.
“My main goal is transparency. Students need to know what is happening with their Guild and the challenges we are facing.”
“There are inefficiencies in the shuttle service that affect students daily. Additionally, living conditions on halls need to be upgraded and there are various infrastructure concerns that must be tackled. I want to ensure these issues are addressed to improve the student experience.”
Williams also called for greater unity among the student body, where students from across the Caribbean converge to pursue higher education.
Recognising the challenges that can arise from cultural differences and occasional xenophobia, he outlined a strategy to strengthen regional camaraderie through the Inter-Club Committee (ICC), which consists of various national associations.
“One of my key initiatives is to reduce importation costs for island associations and all UWI students. Right now, the cost of bringing cultural and essential items from home can be a burden and by reducing these fees, we can help students showcase their culture more effectively. This will enhance inclusivity and promote cross-cultural appreciation,” he said.
Williams said he was determined to lay the groundwork for future Guild administrations to build upon, adding that he envisioned a more powerful and engaged student body that can advocate for itself effectively.
“This year will set the foundation for future Guilds to have greater influence. We want to create a structure that allows students to feel appreciated, valued and empowered at this university. The work we do now will determine the Guild’s ability to continue raising the torch for years to come.”
Williams expressed optimism about the academic year ahead and pledged to continue advocating for policies that benefit students and ensure the Guild remained a formidable voice within the university community.
“We are here to serve the students, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do,” he said. (CLM)
