Mqondisi MSIBI
Swalimo Student Command Unit

Esteemed colleagues, students, and distinguished guests,

It is an honor to stand before you today to discuss the vision, structure, and significance of an International Students’ Council (ISC). As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, the need for a unified body representing international students has never been more critical.

Objectives of the ISC
The primary objective of the ISC should be to serve as a voice for international students across various institutions, ensuring their academic, social, and cultural well-being. Specifically, the ISC should:

1. Advocate for Student Rights – Address issues such as visa policies, accommodation, tuition fees, and academic inclusion.
2. Foster Cultural Exchange – Promote diversity and inclusion through events and programs that bring together students from different backgrounds.
3. Enhance Academic and Career Development – Partner with universities and industries to provide internships, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities.
4. Ensure Mental Health and Welfare Support – Establish counseling and peer support programs to help students adjust to new environments.

Representation and
Decision-Making Structure
For the ISC to be effective, it must be democratically structured, ensuring fair representation of all student voices. I propose a model where:

Eah participating institution elects representatives to form a General Assembly.
An Executive Committee, comprising a President, Vice Presidents, and Departmental Heads, oversees decision-making.
Subcommittees handle key areas such as academic affairs, welfare, legal matters, and cultural integration.
Decision-making should be inclusive, relying on consensus and voting mechanisms that prioritize student interests.

Who Should Be Invited to Join?
The ISC should be open to:

Representatives from student unions and associations in different universities.
Delegates from diverse national and regional backgrounds to ensure inclusivity.
Academic advisors and policy experts who can guide decision-making.
Organizations that support international student mobility and exchange programs.

Key Issues to Highlight
In addition to governance, the ISC must address pressing issues such as:

– Discrimination and xenophobia against international students.
– The impact of global policies on student mobility.
– Funding opportunities for financially struggling students.
– Creating a global network for student collaboration.

Conclusion
The formation of an International Students’ Council is not just a necessity—it is an imperative step toward fostering global academic solidarity. With a well-structured council, we can amplify student voices, shape policies, and create an enriching educational experience for all. Let us work together to build a brighter, more inclusive future for international students worldwide.