October 2, 2024 – In a powerful display of unity and leadership, student representatives from across Southern Leyte State University Maasin City Campus (SLSU-MCC) gathered for a pivotal Federation of Supreme Student Council (FSSC) Consultation Meeting. Held in the campus’s Audio-Visual Room, the event brought together student leaders from various organizations, including the Supreme Student Council (SSC), PULSE, JSWAP, CPAS, EdeO, Peer Facilitators, and Student First Aiders, alongside the FSSC officers, in an effort to address pressing student concerns and build a brighter future for the university.

The meeting began with a reflective Doxology, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the SLSU Hymn. Hon. Wilson Lecaros, SSC President of SLSU-MCC, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging the commitment of the student organizations and FSSC officers. His words set a tone of collaboration and action, emphasizing the importance of student leadership in shaping the university’s direction.

Following the introduction of the organization presidents, Hon. Jose Constantino III, Federation Vice President for Internal Operations and Finance, introduced the FSSC President, Hon. Jay Lou A. Terante. With confidence and purpose, President Terante led the consultation, underscoring the significance of the event. 

“We are all gathered here today for a meaningful consultation, aiming for a better university in the future,” he began, immediately highlighting the collective goal of fostering positive change for SLSU.

He stressed the importance of student voices, encouraging leaders to openly share their concerns, which would be raised to the University President and Board of Regents. 

“As student leaders, we must advocate for the rights of all students,” Terante affirmed. His primary initiative, he explained, is to ensure that students are fully aware of the federation's existence and its role as their advocate.

The consultation then shifted into an open forum, where student leaders shared their insights and raised crucial issues. Mr. Gabriel Wong, former FSSC Vice President and current student leader, suggested the establishment of a dedicated FSSC fund to support student activities and proposed campus-wide seminars to foster engagement across all university branches. His proposal sparked productive dialogue on how the FSSC could better serve its constituents.

One of the most debated topics emerged when Mr. Gabriel Wong voiced concerns about the current school uniform policy, sparking a deeper discussion led by Vice President Hon. Constantino, who proposed the potential abolition of uniforms altogether. The suggestion received considerable attention from the student leaders, with many expressing interest in revisiting the policy. However, President Terante acknowledged the importance of the issue while reminding attendees that, although it could be brought forward for review, students must continue to adhere to existing university regulations in the meantime.

“As your FSSC President, I am pro-student, and I am representing all of the students of SLSU,” he reassured the attendees, reaffirming his commitment to listening to their concerns and acting on their behalf.

The event concluded with a photo opportunity, capturing the unity, passion, and determination of SLSU’s student leaders as they work together to improve the university experience for all students. The consultation stood as a powerful testament to the strength of student leadership, proving that when students come together with a shared vision, meaningful change is possible.

As the FSSC continues its mission of creating a more inclusive and responsive university environment, the meeting served as a reminder that student welfare is not just a goal but a guiding principle. With every concern addressed and every voice heard, the future of SLSU is not only bright—it’s in the hands of those ready to shape it.

(via Lyka Joy Mayol | Pulse)