By Tuana Kardas, Year 10
This week the Express had the chance to speak to Antoine Liang, Chairman of Strike STUCO, about his views on STUCO and its place at LGB, and Strike’s goals for the rest of the year, which thankfully are being facilitated by the easing of most COVID restrictions in Switzerland that have been in place for about two years.
Has STUCO changed? How has it changed from last year?
The Student Council has changed drastically compared to last year, specifically, within its systemic aspect. It is more fragmented this year, whereas it was a single-party system last year. This year, the High School voted for each position on the Student Council. However, last year, the Year 12s had formed groups, which then everyone voted for. For improvement purposes, a new system was implemented for 2021-22. Now, the High School community votes for each position within STUCO. This year, the two main groups, Peak and Monsoon STUCO, presented their ideas, and then each position on the council was voted for, dividing up the two groups and establishing one single group instead.
What can we look forward to from STUCO in the remainder of the school year?
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, there have been multiple setbacks. The intense regulations restricted many events from occurring, and hence, not much could be done by our Student Council. Fortunately, these rules have been easing up. As of the 17th of February 2022, the mask requirements have been lifted, enabling STUCO to finally have a chance to organize more student-related events, such as the Valentine’s Day chocolates. Moreover, several questions circulating the Bal de Neige have been arising. Due to Covid-19, this idea was halted altogether, and it wasn’t a top priority. Although, it is stated that if the students are longing for such an event, a version of it for spring might occur, perhaps a Spring Ball or a Spring Formal. There was also an art contest in the works, however, the individual leading this concept has reportedly left, so I hope to see it occur and have such an event take place. Lastly, it’s crucial to inform you that the annual talent show has been placed in the works and is currently being organized. Thus, unlike last year, we might finally have a non-virtual talent show happen again.
What do you do in weekly meetings?
During our weekly meetings, we often discuss problems that arise around the school and figure out how to deal with them. The problems we have mostly been facing so far this year all revolve around COVID; how do we reduce mingling between year groups, etc… At the same time, we also try to present our ideas to the administration. For example, we were able to get students access to the iSAMS portal where they can see their reports.
What is your personal opinion on assemblies that target peace?
In my opinion, the school is not going about it in the best way possible. These assemblies are good at giving you a surface-level insight into these issues. I don’t think it will solve anything by itself, though it is a good way to remind people, once in a while, of these ongoing issues such as racism.
What got you into applying for STUCO?
Initially, I was meant to run with Monsoon STUCO; however, due to specific difficulties, this wasn’t possible. I then decided to run individually and win, which I successfully did, thanks to help from others. I was certainly overwhelmed by the reaction I received from the crowd after executing my speech. It was quite a shock for me due to my little experience in public speaking. All I can say is that I am highly grateful for the support I managed to raise and that I couldn’t have done it without the student community.
Do you think teachers often overlook STUCO?
I think that teachers tend to overlook STUCO as we find it quite difficult to meet with the teachers themselves. Therefore, our weekly meetings tend to be exclusively with the head of years and the administration. When it comes to proposing more specific ideas we do reach out to teachers such as when we had the escalade costume contest
With the end of the year looming ahead in about 15 weeks, many students look forward to seeing what else Strike STUCO will be able to achieve this year. If you have any suggestions or ideas you would like to pitch to STUCO, you should contact your year representatives. As for Antoine, his campaign speech will always be remembered in the minds of those who witnessed it, as it was truly memorable.
