SUO of UBCO continues advocacy for equity, support, and affordability
In August 2025, Student leaders from the Students’ Union Okanagan of UBC (SUO), the Alma Mater Society (AMS), and the Graduate Student Society (GSS) gathered at UBC Vancouver for the VPS Retreat 2025. This annual gathering is a vital opportunity for student executives to align on shared goals and advocate for meaningful change across both UBC campuses.
The SUO was proud to present its top priorities for the 2025–2026 academic year at the UBC Board of Governors meeting. SUO President Peter Okpoga Idoko, VP External Olivia Lai, VP Internal Shreya Patnaik, VP Campus Life Ashley Kyei-Badu, among other executives, represented the Okanagan campus, ensuring that the voices of UBCO students were spotlighted.
Here’s a list of the key priorities presented:
- Affordability with a Focus on Food Security: The SUO urged UBC to allocate increased funding toward food security initiatives. These funds directly support essential programs such as the SUO Community Meals and The Pantry, which help students access nutritious food in times of need.
- Enhanced Student Support Services: With a growing student population, the SUO called for expanded career development resources at UBCO to better prepare students for life after graduation. Additionally, the SUO advocated for targeted support for international students, recognizing the unique challenges they face in today’s global climate.
- Equitable Resource Allocation to UBCO: The SUO highlighted disparities in institutional funding between the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. We called on UBC to implement sustainable funding models that promote growth and prevent further reductions in services at UBCO.
The SUO remains committed to working alongside the AMS and GSS to ensure that every student, regardless of campus, has access to the resources they need to thrive.
