The International University of East Africa (IUEA) ushered in a new chapter with the swearing-in ceremony of our 10th Students’ Guild Office on April 1, 2025. Congratulations to Daniel Mayen, our newly elected Guild President, and Osama Barkhad, the Vice Guild President! Their election reflects the trust and confidence placed in them by their fellow students.
As per tradition, the IUEA electoral commission—entirely composed of students—oversaw both the election process and the inauguration ceremony. But beyond the formalities, what does this leadership transition mean for IUEA? What role does the Students’ Guild Office play in shaping student life? Let’s explore.
Introducing IUEA’s 10th Students’ Guild Office
“With great power comes great responsibility.” No student understands this better than the Guild President. Now that Guild President Daniel Mayen (South Sudan) and Vice Guild President Osama Barkhad (Somalia) have officially assumed office, the focus shifts to their vision for IUEA.
During his campaign, Guild President Daniel summarised his priorities in a simple yet impactful acronym: MASS—Mentorship, Advocacy, Service Delivery, and Security. Here’s what that means for students.
Mentorship: Strengthening Academic and Professional Growth
Guild President Daniel’s manifesto placed academics at the forefront—a stance that sets this administration apart. While academic excellence is already a cornerstone of IUEA, his focus on mentorship could signal a shift toward even greater scholastic support.
This aligns with IUEA’s mission “to provide an excellent education that includes practical skills.” We anticipate initiatives that connect students with industry veterans, enhancing exposure, training, and career readiness.
Advocacy: A Voice for Every Student
“There is room for everyone.”
– Said Guild President Daniel during his inaugural speech
This rallying cry defined Guild President Daniel’s campaign and was echoed in his inaugural speech. It underscores his commitment to ensuring every student—regardless of background—feels seen and heard.
With students from over 50 nationalities, IUEA is a vibrant multicultural community. The Students’ Guild Office plays a crucial role in ensuring that student concerns are addressed fairly and effectively. How Daniel’s administration will elevate advocacy remains to be seen, but the expectation is set.
Service Delivery: Addressing Student Needs Efficiently
Timely responses to student concerns are a top priority for this administration. Given the diversity of IUEA’s student body—spanning different cultures and academic levels—the Guild Office faces complex and evolving challenges.
Navigating these demands requires strategic planning and a strong cabinet. The road ahead is demanding, but with the right systems in place, effective service delivery is within reach.
Security: Ensuring a Safe Learning Environment
Security is a fundamental aspect of student life—one that IUEA already prioritises. With multiple layers of physical and cyber security, students can focus on their education without worry.
While other candidates may have seen little need to highlight this, Guild President Daniel’s emphasis on security suggests an added layer of reassurance for students. Whether through enhanced campus safety measures or student welfare programs, his administration is expected to build on IUEA’s existing security framework.
The IUEA Students’ Guild Electoral Process
To ensure fair representation, IUEA’s Students’ Guild President and Vice President are elected through a democratic process—similar to national elections.
- The student body votes for the President and Vice President.
- The IUEA Electoral Commission (composed entirely of students) oversees the process, from vote counting to announcing results.
- The Electoral Commission also facilitates the appointment of faculty representatives within the Guild.
What Happens After the Elections?
Once elected, the previous Guild Office formally hands over power, including the Guild Constitution. The new President and Vice President then assemble their cabinet, appointing ministers to lead key areas of student affairs.
A typical Students’ Guild Cabinet includes:
- Minister of Information
- Minister of Sports
- Minister of Social Affairs
- Minister of Culture
- Minister of Health
- Minister of Environment
- Minister of Finance
These ministers act as agents of the Guild President and Vice President, ensuring various student concerns receive proper attention.
Since the structure mirrors that of a government, each minister plays a vital role in shaping student policies and initiatives.
Why the Students’ Guild Matters
It has been well documented that students’ guilds and unions are key to an academic institution’s success, fostering student engagement, leadership, and advocacy. The Students’ Guild is more than just a leadership body—it’s a bridge between students and the university administration. It ensures that student concerns are heard, addressed, and incorporated into university policies.
Beyond governance, the Guild provides valuable leadership opportunities, helping students develop skills in advocacy, decision-making, and community engagement. Each new administration reaffirms IUEA’s commitment to giving students a voice and shaping a university experience that meets their evolving needs.
As we welcome Guild President Daniel and Vice Guild President Osama, we look forward to the innovations and transformations they will bring to IUEA. Here’s to a future of student-centered leadership!
