The Ukrainian Student League is systematically seeking solutions to strengthen student self-government bodies
Photo:Ukrainian Student League (USL)/ MediaMove Forum
This is why the "Development of Student Self-Government" project exists; it brings together experts in student self-governance across Ukraine and allocates resources to areas where there is a demand.
Rubryka reports this.
What is the problem?
As Rubryka mentioned in a previous article, student self-government is both a right and an opportunity for students to influence decision-making processes within educational institutions. In Ukraine, this institution has existed since the country regained independence. However, its presence does not necessarily mean that it functions effectively in all universities.
Several factors impact the efficiency of student self-government bodies (SSGBs), including the size of the university, its location, ownership type, possible relocation, and the existing culture of self-governance within the institution.
The Ukrainian Student League (USL) is a civic association founded by students, for students, and led by students. One of its key areas of work is amplifying the voice of Ukrainian students and supporting the institutional development of student self-government bodies, recognizing them as an essential part of Ukraine's civil society.
Photo:Ukrainian Student League (USL)
What is the solution?
Implementing the "Peer-to-Peer" Approach
No one understands student challenges better than the students themselves. And it works even more effectively when there's someone to turn to for support and advice.
This is precisely why the "Development of SSGB" project exists—it brings together experts in student self-government across Ukraine and directs resources to where they are most needed.
Photo:Ukrainian Student League (USL)
The "Development of SSGB" project is an ongoing initiative designed to support and strengthen student self-government bodies across Ukraine. The process is simple: SSGB representatives submit an application, and the Ukrainian Student League (USL) team reviews it, establishes contact, and develops an action plan tailored to their needs.
Support comes in the form of online and offline consultations, on-site lectures, seminars, and workshops. Additionally, the project team is responsible for the methodological framework of forums, SSGB schools, and other initiatives aimed at student self-government development.
"We support student self-government at every stage of its development—from organizing elections and drafting regulations to launching executive and audit bodies. We assist with financial management, branding updates, and building effective cooperation with university administrations. A key focus is on leadership training and organizing workshops to ensure SSGBs operate professionally and efficiently." — Danylo Shchohol, Project Coordinator, First Deputy Head of the Executive Board of the Ukrainian Student League.
Photo:Ukrainian Student League (USL)
Over two years of the "Development of SSGB" project, we have helped student self-governments across the country. Together, we have drafted over 17 regulations, organized 6 election processes, trained 500 student curators in 15 higher education institutions, and conducted over 80 training sessions, lectures, and consultations. In total, we have trained over 1,400 SSGB representatives, and more than 35 universities have received support according to their requests.
More details about the organization's projects can be found on the website.
