By: Shakira Mae Aticao, Political Science Society Manifesto
“Democracy starts with the voice of the people.” As the day begins setting the tone of spirited discourse and engagement, the Political Science Society held its first General Assembly for the Academic Year 2024-2025 with the theme “What is the Political Science Society?” on October 10, 2024, at the UC Auditorium.
The assembly was attended by students from all year levels of the particular program for an engaging session on parliamentary discussions and student governance. It features the appointment of the EIC and the committee of the society’s official publication named the PSS Manifesto, the Ombudsman, Executive Committees, and the Commission on Democratic Processes. Along the way, the event became a platform for the students to gain awareness of the key updates within the society as the students were encouraged not only to learn about political processes but for them to experience them firsthand.
One of the highlights of the assembly was the Parliamentary session on the Constitution and By-Laws (CBL) of the society which is being recognized as the society’s framework. It paved the way for the students to participate in a critical dialogue and open concerns about the contents of the CBL. During the session, the students took the floor to raise questions and suggest ratification of the resolutions. Some of which is the advocacy for clearer language or terms used in certain provisions, and suggestions for more inclusive policies or rules on elections and the choosing of ambassadors.
The proposals sparked an active discourse of ideas between the students and the PSS executive committee especially on the concerns raised, highlighting the participatory nature of the program and the students themselves. All suggestions and resolutions have undergone further deliberation with the hope of enacting positive changes reflecting the aspirations of the student body.
The Parliamentary became more than just a formality, but rather a testament and manifestation to the program’s emphasis on cultivating leaders and critical thinkers who are ready to contribute meaningfully to society. With all the discussion and exchanges of ideas, the collective input from both the students and committees marked the beginning of a fresh chapter for the Political Science Society.
As the academic year goes on, the assembly will be the remembrance of the value and essence of every individual’s involvement regarding governance and the purpose of dialogue in the pursuit of positive change for the welfare of the body. For the whole of Political Science Society, this assembly isn’t just a pure gathering for specific agendas, but an exercise of democracy, collaboration, and the pursuit of excellence in leadership.
