In a world where campus politics often mirrors the national stage, one must ask: Can students truly lead independently, or are they simply pawns in a larger political game? This is a dilemma I often wrestle with; particularly as political affiliations gain prominence among student leaders. While some argue these affiliations provide exposure and experience, I question whether they shape or distort campus politics. As an observer (not a student leader myself), I am increasingly concerned by the growing influence of national politics on our campuses. The lines between student advocacy and party agendas are becoming dangerously blurred. While national politics itself is not inherently flawed, its infiltration into student governance is harmful. This trend threatens the very essence of student leadership, with consequences that could be far-reaching. In this article, I will explore the impact of national politics on student leadership, discuss potential dangers, and offer strategies to reclaim the integrity of student governance.
Student politics is meant to be an avenue for individuals with leadership potential to emerge, serving as a bridge between the student body and university administration. At the University of Ghana, this role has largely remained consistent, with students elected as SRC presidents, JCR presidents, and departmental heads to represent their peers. Historically, elections have been peaceful, especially with the introduction of online voting where students vote at their convenience. However, recent shifts in student politics are deeply concerning. National politics has infiltrated our leadership spaces in ways that undermine the principles of integrity and fairness. Student politics should serve as a stepping stone for future leaders and offer them the platform to develop independent leadership skills. Yet, the sight of student leaders betraying their peers for power, candidates engaging in sabotage like tearing posters and replacing banners, undermines this ideal.
For instance, during the buildup to the recent UGSRC elections, one aspirant faced sabotage. His flyers were torn, his banners replaced with those of his opponent. This type of interference is not an isolated case; many students have faced similar challenges. These actions raise questions about the integrity of student leadership today.
The involvement of TESCON (Tertiary Students Confederacy Network) and TEIN (Tertiary Education Institution Network), the student wings of the two major political parties, has further complicated the situation. While these organizations play a role in supporting and grooming student leaders, their influence cannot be ignored. The problem arises when belonging to TESCON or TEIN creates barriers. As a TESCON member, it may be difficult to gain assistance from an NDC MP, and vice versa for TEIN members. Even when help is offered, it is often limited and sporadic which fuels my concern about the unhealthy merging of national politics with student leadership.
The consequences of this trend are already apparent. Political divisions breed animosity, eroding friendships and fostering conflict. This hostility often continues into mainstream politics, as individuals who once clashed over student elections carry divisive attitudes into national leadership, making collaboration difficult.
To better understand the effects of national politics on student governance, I engaged with student leaders. While some declined to comment, likely out of fear of external pressures or potential backlash, others offered candid insights. One departmental president expressed concern that student politics is increasingly crippled by national political allegiances. She noted that student leaders often feel pressured to pledge loyalty to political figures even when it goes against their values. Another student leader argued that the alignment with national political parties creates unnecessary divisions. He explained that while these organizations aim to groom student leaders, they inadvertently cause students to identify too strongly with political groups which limits their collaboration across party lines. He also emphasized that these political affiliations come with strings attached, often hindering students’ independence and effectiveness.
On the other hand, some students see national politics as a source of development and exposure. One former UGSRC candidate acknowledged that national political affiliation could help develop leadership skills, build political awareness, and engage students in broader national discourse. He also argued that these groups help to enhance students’ networking opportunities, preparing them for future roles in politics.
Despite these potential benefits, the involvement of national politics creates division. According to a former UGSRC candidate, political affiliation often determines a student’s prospects, regardless of their abilities. Competent students may be overlooked if they lack backing from the ruling party. He pointed to recent allegations of electoral manipulation in the UGSRC elections, where accusations of bias were linked to political influence. This, he argued, led to weak candidates gaining power, unable to make meaningful contributions once in office.
Another departmental president shared similar sentiments, noting that students who do not align with certain political factions, such as TEIN or TESCON, may struggle to gain support, even if they are qualified for leadership roles. This politicization of student leadership, according to him, stifles opportunities for non-partisan candidates.
A JCR executive emphasized that while national political involvement can provide students with scholarships, internships, and networking opportunities, it also leads to autocratic behavior. Student leaders often become beholdened to national figures who provide support but limit their autonomy in decision-making.
Despite the growing concerns, some student leaders believe national politics does not necessarily cripple student governance. One JCR executive argued that involvement in student politics offers valuable leadership training and exposure, benefiting students who aspire to roles in national politics. He dismissed the idea that TEIN or TESCON members influence student voting, explaining that these groups can organize programs in line with their preferred parties but do not dictate how students vote in national elections.
Others argue that while national politics may have its downsides, it also has positive aspects. They believe that not all the challenges in student politics should be attributed to political affiliations. According to one student leader, despite the problems, many good leaders still emerge from the current system, and the influence of national politics is only one facet of a broader leadership environment.
Regardless of differing opinions, one undeniable truth remains: student politics plays a crucial role in developing future leaders.
It provides networking opportunities and fosters political awareness, but we cannot ignore the dangers posed by its entanglement with partisan politics. Political manipulation, unfair representation, and increasing divisions are eroding the very core of student leadership.
To protect the integrity of student politics, I suggest that university management collaborate with CSOs and NGOs to provide financial support to students pursuing leadership roles. This would reduce reliance on political “godfathers,” who often attach strings to their support. It would also push agendas that align with student interests, rather than political party agendas. Moreover, student leaders must cultivate cooperation across party lines, ensuring that competent and ethical individuals are given the opportunity to lead, regardless of their political affiliations.
In conclusion, if we are to build a future of true, independent leadership, we must reclaim student politics as a space free from the divisive influence of national politics. By doing so, we can foster an environment of integrity, unity, and leadership development that benefits all students, and by extension, the broader society.
Author ; Akpalu Edmond / Radio Univers
