A new student union president has been voted in for East Coast College and Lowestoft Sixth Form focussing on sustainability and celebrating student success.
Inaya Ayub, who is in her second year studying Psychology, Sociology and Law at Lowestoft Sixth Form, said she wanted to take on the role to continue the work done by the previous president, to put students’ opinions and priorities first.
She said: “I don’t want college to be a place you just come and go. I want it to be somewhere you remember.”
Having only been in post since November, Inaya has already implemented some changes through the exploration of student ideas and voiced opinions including the idea for a college prom as well as exploring more vegetarian options within college to keep costs low for students.
Being a spokesperson for three campuses across Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth is no small feat, but with the aim of making her peers heard at the forefront of her manifesto, Inaya is the right person for the job.
When speaking on the students, Inaya said: “I want them to know who I am, and know that if they have any suggestions, they can come to me with it. I want all of the students’ ideas to come true and I am pleased that we are already having our ideas heard and things are progressing.”
Being reachable is vital to Inaya’s presidency, working with the student union members in monthly meetings to ensure all aspects of college life are being heard and taken to those within senior management and the governance. Having been head girl previously at Lynn Grove Academy, Inaya was keen to step into the role, as the prospect of being a president wasn’t offered at other colleges in the area.
Stuart Rimmer, Chief Executive of East Coast College said: “Getting a strong student voice to challenge the senior team and governors and help us really understand what students want from their college is vital to our success. We are very proud. In these students we have already found insight, compassionate views and thoughtful contributions on safety, environmental issues, apprenticeships and higher education.”