Photo: Jason Fong / Strathclyde Telegraph

Last week, students at the University of Strathclyde took part in a lunchtime discussion with political candidates, organised as part of a campaign led by Fraser Brown to encourage young people to engage with politics, vote, and make informed decisions.

Labour MSP Paul Sweeney and Conservative candidate Josephine Macleod attended, discussing a range of issues including the cost of living, graduate employment, housing and immigration. SNP councillor Graham Campbell also joined the event later.

Both candidates highlighted the importance of student engagement in politics, while Sweeney emphasised the need to retain graduate talent in Glasgow. He pointed to new business investment in the city but raised concerns about stagnant population growth and the lack of locally owned student accommodation.

The rising cost of living was a key focus. Sweeney argued for measures such as higher wages, rent controls and increased financial support for students. Macleod agreed that affordability is a major issue but focused on the shortage of graduate jobs, suggesting that attracting businesses to Scotland through temporary tax incentives could create more opportunities.

Immigration revealed a clear divide. Macleod argued that while international students contribute financially, some overstay visas and place pressure on resources, proposing that most should return to their home countries after graduation unless their skills are deemed beneficial. Sweeney, by contrast, criticised the current system as having “evolved into what he calls a ‘race war’” and advocated for a more flexible, region-based approach similar to Canada’s, stressing that Scotland’s stagnant population and economy rely on attracting international talent.

The discussion also touched on increasing social division. Both candidates recognised growing public frustration, particularly in relation to the cost of living, and the need for greater understanding and engagement across communities.