Everything You Need to Know About the Upcoming SU Elections

By Eva Quinn

As manifestos circulate on social media, Queen’s University Belfast is once again in the midst of its annual Students’ Union Election. More than a routine campus tradition, the election allows students to shape the direction of their Union by choosing representatives who will advocate on issues ranging from education and welfare to inclusion and campus life. With a diverse slate of candidates and a renewed focus on student engagement, this year’s race reflects both the challenges and priorities facing the QUB student body. As voting opens, the outcome will determine who speaks for students over the coming year – so here is everything you need to know.

What are the full-time roles?

The Union President: Arguably the most important role in the election. The president intends to lead, inspire and make a long-lasting difference. They must lead strategically, become the student voice, build partnerships with key organisations and inspire action to drive an impactful change.

Student Officer for Undergraduate Education: This role demands an advocate for undergraduate students’ academic interests, while also cooperating and supporting student academic representatives. They must also collaborate with university leaders on issues such as learning support, study skills, academic regulation, and assessment and quality of feedback. Finally, they must promote a positive culture of learning and engagement. 

Student Officer for Postgraduate Education: Similar to the undergraduate officer, this representative must champion postgraduate students and their interests, while strengthening postgraduate advocacy and supporting student representatives. They must collaborate with the university on issues such as learning support, study skills, academic regulations, assessment and feedback quality, and postgraduate research student experience. They campaign on postgraduate issues and encourage involvement in Union activities. 

Student Officer for Activities and Engagement: This role is in charge of building a vibrant campus community and supporting student activities. They create an inclusive and welcoming community for all students. They advocate for clubs, societies, and associations at the university level. They guide and advise on student-led activities and growing clubs, societies and associations. They support and develop student engagement in clubs and societies, volunteering, enterprise and employability opportunities.

Student Officer for Accessible Education: This elect should champion accessible education at Queen’s. They use their voice to advocate for all students’ academic interests, particularly for those from underrepresented groups. Their role is to advocate for fair access, inclusive policies, and smoother transitions into university life. They work with the university on learning and study support, teaching qualities, and academic rules.

Student Officer for Welfare and Community: This role is responsible for promoting wellbeing, inclusivity and advocating for students in the community. They represent the needs and interests of students in key areas such as housing, safety, mental health, and wellbeing. The officer must create impactful resources that help students navigate challenges and thrive, and act as the primary point of contact for welfare matters – driving meaningful campaigns and initiatives that enhance student wellbeing. 

Voting for this year’s elections will open in the coming weeks, and The Gown will keep students updated with all the information needed to make an educated decision. Ultimately, the Student Union elections are a reminder of the power students hold to influence their university experience. By taking the time to engage with the candidates and cast a vote, students help ensure the Union remains representative, accountable, and responsive to their needs.

References:

[1] Queen’s Students’ Union. “Full-Time Student Officer Roles.” Qubsu.org, 2025. https://qubsu.org/studentvoice/SUElections/TheRoles/Full-TimeStudentOfficerRoles/#how-to-stand-for-election-3414470-5