Umama Fatema and Al Sadi Bhuiyan lead the Swatantra Shikharthi Oikko (Independent Student Unity) panel for Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) elections.

The complete 15-position slate was unveiled during a press conference at Aparajeyo Bangla on Thursday afternoon, marking a significant moment for campus politics.

Umama, nominated as vice president, VP, candidate, brings seven to eight years of campus experience to her campaign.

During the announcement, she reflected on her journey from losing her first election as study circle representative at Kabi Sufia Kamal Hall to now contesting for the top position.

“This panel is here to be their voice,” she said, emphasising their commitment to representing general students’ demands.

Al Sadi Bhuiyan secured the General Secretary, GS, nomination, whilst Zahed Ahmad was nominated as Assistant General Secretary, AGS, candidate.

The comprehensive panel covers all major student affairs portfolios, including Liberation War and Democratic Movement Affairs Secretary, Numan Ahmad Chowdhury; Science and Technology Secretary, Mominul Islam Bidhan; and International Affairs Secretary, Nafiz Bashar Alif.

Notable appointments include Sumi Chakma for Common Room, Reading Room & Cafeteria Secretary, addressing crucial student facilities management. Onid Hasan will contest for Literature & Cultural Affairs Secretary, whilst Siam Ferdous Imon targets the Research & Publication Secretary position.

Sports and transport concerns feature prominently, with Md Sadikuzzaman Sarkar nominated as Sports Secretary and Md Rafij Khan for Student Transport Secretary. Social service and career development receive attention through Tanvir Samad and Rupaiya Shrestha Tonchongya, respectively.

Health, environment, and legal matters find representation through Israt Jahan Nijhum, Health & Environment Secretary, and Nusrat Jahan Nisu, Human Rights & Law Affairs Secretary.

The panel includes 14 additional members: Nowrin Sultana Toma, Abid Abdullah, Bobby Biswas, Md. Shakil, Md. Hasan Jubayer Tufan, Abdullah Al Mubin Rifat, Orko Barua, Abir Hasan, Newaz Sharif Arman, Md. Muktarul Islam Ridoy, Hasibur Rahman, Rafiqul Haque Rafi, Md Sajib Hossain, and Sadekur Rahman Sani.

Umama highlighted ongoing struggles to improve campus safety, particularly regarding common room and guest room misuse.

Her experience spans multiple years of organising efforts and student advocacy work across university facilities.

Swatantra Shikharthi Oikko represents a fresh approach to campus representation, promising to amplify general student voices in university governance.