In an exclusive interview with PDBY, the newly appointed Secretary of the Student Representative Council (SRC) for 2025, Euléne Bornman, shared her vision for fostering a more inclusive and engaged student community at the university. Bornman, who has taken up one of the most critical administrative roles within the SRC, emphasised the importance of transparency, community-building, and balance as key principles that are guiding her term.
When asked about the SRC’s approach to engaging with students, Bornman emphasised the significance of open communication and active listening. “One of the ways that we aim to achieve this is by hosting a student forum every quarter. These forums create an opportunity for students to voice their feelings, share their frustrations, highlight their challenges, and propose improvements. It is also a platform to have conversations with the SRC about topics they might feel confused about or require more information on,” she explained.
Bornman also revealed that the SRC is considering increasing the frequency of these forums to two per quarter, though this has not yet been confirmed. She noted that these engagements would complement the SRC’s open-door policy, where office hours are held daily. Bornman mentioned, “Students are welcome to visit us anytime, engage with our initiatives, and share their perspectives.”
Volunteering is another key focus area for the SRC this year, with initiatives such as the proposed UP SRC Soup Kitchen in the pipeline. This initiative aims to provide meals to students who are less fortunate, while involving volunteers in the process. “We are excited to create opportunities for students to not only participate in events, but also contribute to[wards] their planning and execution. It is about creating a sense of community and showing that we, as the SRC, are nothing without the students,” Bornman remarked.
Reflecting on the broader goals of her role, she articulated a commitment to supporting students in achieving a fulfilling university experience. She acknowledged the challenges of balancing academic workloads, social lives, and mental health, especially for first-year students adjusting to the demands of university life. Bornman shared: “I could give the typical advice about time management and prioritisation, but I believe that [that] sounds repetitive. Instead, I encourage students to find what works for them personally. Whether it is working in short bursts, taking frequent breaks, or even seeking support from peers, the key is to know yourself and adjust accordingly.”
In her capacity as SRC Secretary, Bornman oversees many of the council’s administrative responsibilities, including meeting coordination and documentation. She emphasised the value of precision and thoroughness in this role, explaining that effective administration is crucial to the SRC’s ability to operate smoothly. “I take my responsibilities very seriously because good administration lays the foundation for meaningful action. Without clear records and communication, it becomes difficult to maintain accountability,” she said.
Bornman also highlighted the SRC’s commitment to collaboration, both internally and with external stakeholders, as an essential aspect of achieving its objectives. She pointed towards recent initiatives that were aimed at improving relationships with faculty houses, student societies, and other governance structures. Bornman explained, “We cannot work in isolation. True progress comes from understanding the diverse perspectives and needs within the university. By collaborating, we can create solutions that are both effective and inclusive.”
As she reflected on the year ahead, Bornman expressed her excitement about the opportunity to serve the student body and make a tangible impact on campus life. “Being in this position is a privilege, and I do not take it lightly. I am here to represent the voices of students and to ensure that they feel supported and heard. This year is about creating an SRC that students can trust and be proud of,” she concluded.
