As this year draws to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting on the year we’ve had, the people I’ve worked alongside, and what this university really stands for.
When I first stepped into this role, I promised that our Executive would do things differently. We didn’t always get it right, but we did what we set out to do: make people care again. This year, we doubled election turnout. We delivered the biggest International Food Festival since COVID-19. We fought for doctoral scholarships, secured progress on Albany Street, and opposed the Treaty Principles Bill. We tackled old policy backlogs, reached a break-even budget, launched new hardship support, and raised student housing as a national issue. We kept pushing for lecture recordings, updated our Constitution, and promoted student engagement in Local Body Elections.
None of that happened alone. Our team never stopped showing up for students, even when it was hard to do so. There were moments when walking away would’ve been easier. But no one did. Every person on this Executive knew that students, and the idea of a strong, united student voice, are worth standing up for.
What stays with me as I prepare to leave isn’t just the work, but the people. The people who turn up to fight for better housing, fairer policies, and a kinder campus. The friends and colleagues who challenge, support, and inspire me daily.
I’ve thought a lot lately about what universities are really for. Some say excellence, academic, research, service, experience. But I think it’s something deeper: change. Universities exist to give us the tools to build a better world, and the courage and space to use them.
This leaves us with a responsibility to build a better future for everyone who comes after us. Right now, that mission matters more than ever. Rents are rising. Student poverty is becoming increasingly real. Mental health services are stretched thin. And the Government doesn't seem to have much interest in supporting us. Yet, despite it all, I still believe in what this place – our place – can be, if we’re brave enough to build it.
So, to every Otago student: stay curious, stay loud, and above all, stay kind. Keep building the better world we know is possible.
Kia kaha Otago.
Liam White
2025 OUSA President