By President: Activities - Prince Ikechi
Hello everyone!
As we step into the final stretch of the academic year, I’m proud to share some reflections and updates from a very active and inspiring month of May. Once again, we’ve demonstrated the strength of student solidarity and the power of collective action in fighting for the rights and dignity of all students.
Campaigning for International Students: Defending the Graduate Route Visa This month, I’ve been working collaboratively with the National Union of Students (NUS) and student leaders across the UK in response to the UK government's immigration white paper. Our focus has been on petitioning to protect the Graduate Route Visa, a lifeline for thousands of international students. This campaign is essential not just for students currently in the UK, but for the integrity of UK Higher Education and its global outlook. We've made our voices heard through joint statements, parliamentary engagement, and coalition-building with sector leaders.
President: Activities Prince Ikechi
Standing with Trans and Non-Binary Students - Another significant focus this month has been supporting the national NUS-led movement to protect trans and non-binary students from discrimination. This work is timely, urgent, and necessary. As a union, we are strong to campaign against transphobia and to build an active allyship with leaders in the HE sectors, students’ groups and Parliamentarians. This involves holding our institutions accountable and fostering inclusive, affirming environments where all students can thrive regardless of their gender identity.
Building National Solidarity - Together, these actions form part of a growing student-led effort across the country to build a unified voice against policies that marginalize vulnerable student groups. I am proud that Your SU continues to be at the heart of these national conversations, and we remain committed to empowering every student at Sunderland — locally, nationally, and globally.