Bishop turns to religion to fill VSU void

In recent speeches, Minister Bishop has been talking up what she sees as the many valuable aspects of university life including "the opportunity to learn about new sports, partake in drama and debating, sing in the choir, join the jazz band... the opportunity for employment on campus, whether paid or voluntary, and the gaining of essential employability skills for future years" and "strong attention to student welfare and pastoral care".

"Until this year, exactly these opportunities have been available for ALL students through their student organisations. But many of these services are now either threatened or no longer exist under VSU," said CAPA President Jason Hart.

The Minister has now called for the churches to become more involved by providing these opportunities in residential colleges. Through its legislative attack on student organisations, this government is ensuring, therefore, that only those students who can afford high residential college fees will enjoy a full and satisfying university experience.

CAPA supports today's National Day of Action in defence of student representation and campus culture.