The Odisha Government has decided to conduct student union elections this year across higher education institutions under the Higher Education Department. Following the decision, universities and colleges have issued official notifications outlining the election and selection process.
According to information available till 8 pm on October 7, student leaders will be elected through voting in 341 higher education institutions, comprising 328 colleges and 13 universities.
Student Leaders to Be Selected in 205 Institutions
Meanwhile, 205 higher education institutions, including 202 colleges and three universities, will choose their student leaders through the selection process instead of elections.
The three universities opting for the selection process are Odia University, Sri Jagannath Sanskrit University and Gangadhar Meher University. The remaining 13 universities will conduct elections to elect student representatives.
Nomination Process on October 9
Interested candidates can submit their nominations on October 9 between 10 am and 1 pm. Nomination papers will be scrutinised from 2 pm to 4 pm the same day, while the list of valid nominations will be published at 5 pm.
Candidates wishing to withdraw their nominations can do so on October 10 between 10 am and 1 pm. The final list of candidates will be published at 3 pm on October 10.
Voting on October 15
The institutions will organise the ‘Why I Stand For’ meeting on October 14, providing candidates an opportunity to present their views and priorities before students.
Polling will take place on October 15 from 8 am to 2 pm. Vote counting will begin after polling, with the results also scheduled to be declared on the same day.
Oath-Taking on October 16
The newly elected student leaders will take their oath on October 16.
The resumption of student union elections marks an important development in campus democratic activities in Odisha, giving students an opportunity to participate in the process of electing their representatives.