For the first time, an international student has been elected as the President of the National Union of Students (NUS) Scotland. Sai Shraddha S. Viswanathan originates from the southern state of Kerala and grew up in Mumbai, making her the first President of NUS Scotland of Indian descent. Viswanathan will take office from July 2024 for a two-year term.
She won the election based on her manifesto that laid down guidelines for her term: building a supportive and more inclusive student movement, aiding students with the cost-of-living crisis, devolving powers on International students, and finally increasing HE loans, college bursaries and living wage apprentices. Her campaign objectives tackle demands for education and support for the welfare of students.
Viswanathan was previously the Aberdeen University Students’ Association (AUSA) Vice President for Welfare and won the Young Scot Health and Wellbeing Award for directing campaigns to procure financial assistance for student support services, especially in the north and northeast of Scotland. She has notably campaigned to many government ministers, including the former First Minister Humza Yousaf.
Representation matters. It helps form perceptions about our identity and self-worth, especially for those who feel muted in a different country or even in between cultures. And while diversity is being implemented, it often happens slower than we expect. That’s why seeing an international student work tirelessly for other students and be recognised for her work is incredibly inspiring. Viswanathan’s commitment to her work is undeniable and her upcoming position as NUS President will make many communities feel seen.
Reflecting on her win, Viswanathan told FE News: “I am extremely proud to be elected as NUS Scotland’s new president, particularly as the first-ever international student to take on the role. I am deeply grateful to all those who have put their trust in me to lead in this role… I want to thank Eliot Wooding-Sherwin who ran a great campaign as my opponent and who has worked really hard as part of our movement. Following on from Ellie, and all her predecessors, NUS Scotland President will be a challenge but one I am excited to take on. Our movement must be inclusive, representative, accessible, and student-led. These values will embody my approach as NUS Scotland continues to work for students, fighting for a better-funded education system and real support for students of all backgrounds.”
Eva Curran, the Strath Union President said upon the news: “I’m so delighted that Sai was elected as NUS President! After working with her for the past year, I know she’ll lead the student movement with empathy and passion. Sai is the first international student to be elected Scotland’s President. I know this means so much to her, as it will for all our international students.”
Final year journalism + politics student at Strathclyde. Culture Editor 24/25
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