Our new spokesmen
Improved academic quality is the mantra of the new working committee in the Student Parliament as well.
Line Johanne Strand from Venstrealliansen assumes office as leader of the Student Parliament succeeding Maria Veie Sandvik from 1st July. She wants active students who take part in shaping the University instead of just buying a finished product.
– I pledged improved co-operation between the Student Parliament and the various student bodies and aspire to achieve this. If we put pressure on central authorities, and they put pressure on local authorities, we would make a greater impact, Strand says.
An assessment of the Quality Reform is also in the works. Strand disagrees that the effects of the Reform are all positive. However, she does not wish to make any bombastic remarks before she officially assumes office.
Improved academic quality
To the recently elected Thomas André Syvertsen (HF-lista), responsible for education and research, the main focus will be on improved academic quality.
– My primary objective will be to work for improved academic quality, because I think it is very important, Syvertsen says.
Torkel Nybakk Kvaal (Sosialdemokratene), who will just as well be taking another year as student representative in the Senate, also highlights the importance of monitoring the Quality Reform. However, he draws attention to the significance of the election promises made by Rector as well.
– Rector promised students a few things during last year’s election that are important to keep tabs on and remind him of, Nybakk Kvaal says.
In addition to Nybakk Kvaal, Lene Camilla Westgaard (Moderat Gruppe) is also a representative in the Senate. Westgaard, who has a background representing the Conservative Party of Norway (Høyre) in local politics in Drammen, replaces leader of Attac Norway Marte Nilsen (Venstrealliansen). Robin Sande (SV-lista) will become responsible for international affairs.
– Never give up
Throughout her term as leader of the Student Parliament, Maria Veie Sandvik has emerged as a visible leader with firm, but also controversial opinions. During the Rector Election in autumn 2005, the Norwegian newspapers Klassekampen and Universitas both gave Veie Sandvik savage reviews.
– Verbal attacks are all about my being an authority. Norwegians are not very fond of authorities, so it’s important to distinguish between person and matter, Sandvik says, who do not regret taking the job.
Among her achievements are increased printing quotas and the victory in the SFB-issue. She is now taking a gap year working before she starts on her interdisciplinary doctorate within Arts and Theology. Sandvik can give the following advice to her successor Strand:
– You must never give up. You really have to know your stuff and make good arguments. If you act professionally, the sky is the limit.
