Southampton College hosts hustings event with local Southampton Parliamentary Candidates
As the date for the General Election draws closer, South Hampshire College Group (SHCG) has hosted a hustings event to empower their students to engage with politics.
Held at Southampton College on 26 June, the debate featured local Parliamentary Candidates from Southampton Itchen, including Darren Paffey (Labour), James Batho (Liberal Democrats), Neil Kelly (Green Party) and from Southampton Test Valley Borough Council, Ben Burcombe-Filer (Conservative).
More than 100 students and lecturers from across the college group, which also includes Eastleigh College and Fareham College, were invited to pre-prepare questions, giving them an opportunity to take an active interest in politics and learn about the democratic voting process. The event helped to encourage students to take an early interest in their role within the political landscape, inspiring them to amplify their voices as the future generation.
Each candidate was given a few minutes to present their party’s manifesto before engaging in a soft debate, hosted by SHCG Enrichment Coordinator, Karen Sumner, with a Question Time format. Topics covered during the event included housing, cost of living, immigration, the environment and perhaps most pivotal for the students – education and employment.
Attending on the day was Health and Social care student, Valarie Asiedu (19) and Art and Design student Charlotte Fitzpatrick (18) – both first time voters.
“There needs to be more education from an earlier age when it comes to politics,” said Charlotte. “young people should be able to have the tools equipped to help them make informed decisions when it is their turn to vote.
“Who is in power affects us the most, and we should be able to have the opportunity to make a difference from an early age.”
Valarie added: “We have more access to information than ever before and we are a lot more knowledgeable than people think. However, we don’t feel listened to by politicians or the older generation. Everybody should be included in the decision making as our points of view matter. They need to not see us as children but part of the bigger picture.”
The hustings event comes at a crucial time for South Hampshire College Group, which was recently commended by Ofsted inspectors for its significant progress since the merger last August. The college group is now preparing to launch its eagerly anticipated Centres of Excellence, a £12 million investment that will provide students and apprentices with new, industry-standard learning environments at Southampton and Eastleigh Colleges.
Southampton College Vice Principal, Christian Allen-Kotze, said: “As the UK General Election 2024 approaches, our hustings event is more important than ever. It gives our students a vital platform to engage in active citizenship and have their voices heard on the issues that matter most to them. It is their chance to learn to debate effectively, meet key community leaders and politicians, and support their college. By participating, they’re taking positive action and experiencing something truly impactful.
Christian Allen-Kotze added: “This event also supports British Values education by helping students understand democracy, encouraging active citizenship, and building connections with local community leaders. It’s a great way for students to get involved in their community and understand the issues we face both locally and nationally. We’re proud to offer them this opportunity to shape their futures and contribute meaningfully to the democratic process.”
For more information on South Hampshire College Group, please visit: www.shcg.ac.uk
