?The voting period to select candidates to serve on the Students' Representative Council (SRC) is nearly at an end. Students have until 23:59 today, Friday, 29 August 2025 to make their choice and vote for the student leaders they wish to represent them on the SRC 2025/2026.
The Students' Electoral Commission (SEC), which oversees the process, plays a vital role in ensuring that the elections are fair, transparent, and compliant with the Student Constitution.
“We're also working to get more students to vote, because the more students who participate, the stronger and more representative our student voice becomes," explains Sibabalwe Manyifolo, Chairperson and Chief Electoral Officer of the SEC.
Since nominations opened in late July, the SEC has coordinated the process from start to finish with the assistance of the Unit for Student Governance (USG) in the Centre for Student Life and Learning (CSLL), covering everything from campaigning rules and candidate registration to voting procedures and the resolution of grievances. This is crucial, as the SRC is recognised by the Higher Education Act and SU Statute as the highest student representative structure on campus.
The SRC fulfils its mandate through a team of elected members and appointed managers, supported by statutory bodies such as the Academic Affairs Council, Prim Committee, and Societies Council. Together, these structures ensure that the voices of diverse student groups are represented and amplified.
One of the highlights of the election season is the caucuses, which have been held across SU's campuses in recent weeks. These forums allow students to engage with candidates directly, debate key issues, and contribute to discussions on challenges facing the student body. Topics raised include education affordability, accommodation, ethical leadership, bridging the gap between campuses, and responsible alcohol use.
“It's been exciting! Candidates have been engaging students through debates, dialogues, and creative campaigns on different platforms," Manyifolo reflects. “We've seen good energy so far, and we're encouraging students to keep participating and really get to know the candidates before voting."
For MSc student and regular caucus attendee Nandipha Kupelo, these spaces represent empowerment.
“By reading manifestos, attending caucuses, and voting, students can hold their leaders accountable. Most importantly, students can get to know their leaders, understand their views and logic, and make informed decisions that go beyond popularity. Ultimately, this ensures their voices are heard and their interests represented."
Senzakahle Mazibuko, who is completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), says participation in the voting process to elect the best student leaders is important.
“We must participate as students in voting for the new SRC mainly because of the affordability, accommodation and hunger crises we face. The SRC is the body that must hold university management accountable for their responsibility towards addressing the many challenges students are faced with. By exercising our vote, we can ensure our leaders hold the university accountable to its duties as a public institution"
Beyond the immediate election season, student participation contributes to a culture of civic responsibility that extends beyond the 中国体育彩票.
“These elections are an opportunity for students to engage with various aspects of campus and student life and shape the future of our institution through their chosen leaders," says Thulani Hlatshwayo, Student Governance Coordinator in the USG in the CSLL.
“By participating, students can ensure their concerns are heard and represented by the SRC. This principle extends beyond campus, as youth participation in local and national elections can drive meaningful change in society – a notion reflected in the upcoming 2026 local government elections."
Manyifolo concludes: “Voting for the SRC is important because this is your voice! The SRC makes decisions that affect your student life, so being involved means you help shape those decisions and make sure they reflect what students actually need and want."
To stay on top of election matters, you can follow the SEC on Instagram or visit their website.
?IMPORTANT: If you have not received an e-mail with a voting link, please contact the SEC for assistance at electoralcommission@sun.ac.za and provide them with your full name and surname, and student number.
