YSCA Knockout
A cynic might suggest that YSCA was cushy nine grand earner for Mags Parker, as the post was uncontested this year, however Mags vehemently denies this claim. YSCA is a passion for Mags, at least that is her response to all those who ask why she didn’t stand for Services Officer, which many perceive to be a more prestigious and appropriate role for the incumbent Ents officer. However, Parker sees YSCA as a position with room for development: "lots of people say YSCA and RAG could be merged but that’s a really bad idea, the roles cover two different areas of aid work and would be too much work for one person. I’m going to strive to prove YSCA is a viable position".
Reflecting on the lack of an opponent Mags admitted, "its disappointing no-one else stood, but its just one of those things". She went on to slam claims that it reflects a lack of interest in YSCA: "I’m sure it will be contested next year, loads of people might stand, it just so happens that there weren’t many people on the Committee who felt in a position to do it this year".
Parker is one of the most experienced of next year’s Sabs, having held posts on Goodricke JCRC, RAG committee, SU Exec, YSCA and campus media societies. Her knowledge of both Union and University systems makes her confident she can be an effective member of next year’s team.
She has a lot of work ahead of her – dismissing claims that YSCA is a lightweight, unimportant role she pointed to the expansion of Projects Abroad and Aid Projects as important tasks that lie ahead. The Annual YSCA-run Kids Camp has faced both financial and safety concerns in recent years, and will be under intense scrutiny as Mags takes charge in July.
Increasing the involvement of all students is an important and perennial challenge for Community Action Officer. Acknowledging the demands on student’s time Mags wants to create volunteering opportunities for all by integrating academic departments into YSCA projects. Societies also have a role to play and many projects will seek to incorporate interests and skills found in other areas of Union activity.
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