UCC Atlantic Hall Parliament discusses Modus Operandi of Wings and Associations and the setting up of disciplinary committee

UCC Atlantic Hall  House of Parliament discusses Modus Operandi of Wings and Associations and the setting up of disciplinary committee in the hall under the leadership of RT. Hon. Gideon A. Amoah.

The 11th parliamentary first sitting of the Atlantic Hall House of Parliament took place on June 18, 2023, with a primary focus on the modus operandi of various wings and associations within the hall and the establishment of a disciplinary committee to maintain law and order.

The session commenced with an informal gathering followed by the parliamentary prayer led by Mr. Speaker, who also delivered a welcome address.

During the session, several honorable members raised concerns related to various issues within the hall. Honorable Nicholas expressed his concern over the delayed delivery of books for students.

Another member highlighted the prolonged closure of the library, while Honorable Edem clarified that the closure was due to ongoing renovations, urging patience from the members.

One honorable member voiced apprehension regarding the distribution of free drugs by Ashgin.

He argued that student politicians should be truthful about the nature of the drugs, suggesting that they were not entirely free but rather funded by students’ fees.

However, Honorable Meshack, who had personally benefited from the free drugs provided by the Student Representative Council (SRC) board, countered by stating that the drugs were indeed free, but refunds were not provided if the pharmacy was not recommended by the university.

The majority leader tabled the motion before the house, emphasizing the need to refrain from mentioning names and instead paraphrase concerns to avoid offending or attacking any individual or wing.

The minority leader seconded the motion and reiterated the importance of respectful dialogue. Following this, discussions on the motion commenced.

During the discussion, several honorable members raised concerns about certain violations of hall rules by mariners. For example, the hanging of clothes on balconies was mentioned as a common transgression.

One member recalled the presence of rules and instructions near sinks during their freshman year but noted their absence now.

To improve sanitation and maintain a better living environment, suggestions were put forth, including reintroducing prominently displayed rules near sanitary areas and imposing sanctions on rule violators.

Respecting students’ rights emerged as another topic of concern. Some members highlighted instances where students failed to respect each other’s privacy, particularly by allowing individuals of the opposite sex into their rooms.

To address this, suggestions were made to enhance disciplinary measures and foster a culture of respect.

The lack of information and education about hall rules and communication channels was brought to light, prompting Honorable Mary to propose educational initiatives for students to familiarize themselves with appropriate channels for expressing grievances and resolving issues.

To ensure accountability and discourage a sense of superiority among certain wings within the hall, it was suggested that each wing should have a representative from their executives present in the house.

These representatives would be responsible for keeping the house informed about the affairs of their respective wings and prevent any autonomous behavior.

Honorable Erdman stressed the importance of active engagement from the representatives, emphasizing their duty to serve the mariners by attending parliamentary sittings and answering questions.

Additionally, it was proposed that wing leaders should be invited to parliament to provide accounts of their wing’s activities in the interest of the Marine City and its residents, with prior notice given to them.

Honorable Nyamekye recommended that during orientations, wings should prioritize explaining important rules of the hall rather than promoting their own activities.

Furthermore, the idea of involving hall management in resolving issues beyond the jurisdiction of the JCR executives was suggested, considering their position as the overall leaders within the hierarchy.

The review of wing structures was proposed to ensure transparency and accountability. Each wing would be required to report on their activities and how they benefit the residents of the hall. Similarly, the election process for certain hall leaders would undergo review.

To address disciplinary actions and sanitation matters effectively, the establishment of a dedicated committee was suggested.

This committee would oversee the implementation of disciplinary measures and monitor sanitation within the hall.

In his closing remarks, Majority Leader Hon. Edman urged the next administration to take the concerns raised during the sitting into consideration and continue the positive work initiated by the current administration.

The meeting concluded with the majority leader moving for adjournment, seconded by the minority leader, marking the end of the parliamentary sitting.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh