The 2025/26 academic year marked a renewed focus on advocacy, trust‑building, and community connection from the Office of the SUO President. Under President Peter Idoko’s leadership, the portfolio prioritized systemic change, equitable investment in the Okanagan campus, and rebuilding confidence in the Students’ Union as an organization that truly works for students.
This report highlights key advocacy wins and strategic initiatives delivered throughout the year.
Advocacy
A core focus of the President’s office was advocating for tangible improvements to student wellbeing and institutional equity.
Major advocacy achievements include:
- $1.2 million secured for student food security, following joint advocacy with the AMS and GSC to UBC’s Board of Governors
- Strong advocacy against cuts to student services on the Okanagan campus
- Progress on career support services and international student supports, responding to longstanding student concerns
- Continued advocacy for equitable resource allocation across UBC’s two campuses, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in UBCO for long‑term growth
Strengthening SUO’s Foundation
Beyond policy wins, the President’s office focused on rebuilding student trust and strengthening SUO from within.
Key initiatives included:
- Internal Team Building: Focused efforts to improve SUO’s internal structure, collaboration, and organizational culture to ensure long‑term effectiveness
- External Trust‑Building: Significant strides have been made in restoring confidence in SUO as an organization that advocates for students
Increasing Accessibility Through Visibility
To bring SUO leadership closer to students, President Idoko launched initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility and everyday engagement.
Highlighted initiative:
- Tea Time with Peter: an informal engagement series encouraging SUO Board presence in the community, improving visibility and approachability of student leadership
Community Engagement & Campus‑City Connection
Recognizing the importance of stronger community relations, the Office of the President actively engaged with the wider Kelowna community.
Community impact included:
- Outreach to local partners to better integrate students with Kelowna’s broader community
- Secured partnerships, including collaboration with Aesthetiks, strengthening UBCO × Kelowna connections and student engagement opportunities
In conclusion, the 2025/26 year reflects the Office of the SUO President’s commitment to system‑level advocacy, organizational renewal, and meaningful engagement. From securing record-breaking food security funding to rebuilding trust and strengthening community ties, these efforts lay the groundwork for a stronger, more equitable future for UBCO students.
