EDITORIAL: Reluctancy in Picking AVMS Executive Forms: Causes and Solutions

Veterinary medical students have always demonstrated their political acumen, evidenced by active participation in SU and hall elections. Notably, the faculty of veterinary medicine has produced past SU executives, while vet students also hold various hall positions.

However, at the faculty level, there's a prevailing reluctance among students to pick up AVMS executive forms. By this time of the second semester, we should typically have been seeing 'ABC is coming' or 'CBA wishes you well', as it is common in other faculties.

It's disheartening that in last year AVMS elections, several posts went unopposed, with three vacancies only filled later via by-elections. This year also, no one has shown interest in any executive post yet. These instances underscore students' hesitancy to engage in AVMS leadership roles.

This article delves into the root causes behind this reluctance and suggests potential solutions.

The primary cause lies in the demanding nature of veterinary medicine, leaving little room for extracurricular involvement. Additionally, class restrictions further deter students from contesting for positions. According to the AVMS constitution, only 400-level students can vie for the Vice President and General Secretary roles, fostering an atmosphere where students are reluctant to compete against their peers.

Addressing these issues requires proactive measures:

Enlightenment: While the workload remains unchanged, students need to be educated on the benefits of assuming executive roles. Past executives have excelled academically, dispelling the notion that leadership roles hinder academic success.

Leadership Programs: AVMS executives, along with the senate, should implement leadership programs to emphasize the importance of volunteering despite academic pressures. Though rewards may not be immediate, the long-term benefits are substantial.

Constitutional Review: Flexibility in the constitution is crucial. Positions should not be restricted to a specific class, as capability and experience could outweigh class distinctions. By opening up positions to students of at least two levels, the issue of uncontested elections can be mitigated.

As we anticipate the next AVMS leadership cohort, it is s imperative for current executives and the senate to propose lasting solutions to this recurring challenge of reluctancy among AVMS members in taking leadership posts.