Error spotted in survey for student representation remodel

As the student association works to fix its representation, they may want to do another proof read on their consultation.  

A survey was released last week to gather students’ opinions on what the new model should be. But quickly an error was spotted and brought to Massive’s attention over Instagram.  

The second question on the survey said: “All student representatives are currently elected, with few checks and balances on the candidates.”  

In actuality, several student reps are appointed -- including the four presidents, disability reps, and reps hired post-election. The choice to appoint some reps has been historically controversial, with some feeling it takes away the democracy of elections.  

Following Massive’s media inquiry, the survey question was corrected to say, “Student Representatives are chosen via a mixture of appointments and elections.” 

The current structure was deemed ‘not fit for purpose’ last year after several staff resignations and allegations of a toxic board culture.  

Students labelled the survey mistake as “unprofessional” and “a bit odd”.  

But as Massive interviewed students, many were confused to know there even was a restructure happening. Some, even after years of study at Massey, didn’t know they had reps aside from class reps.  

Wellington vice president Takunda Mabonga smacked his head on the table upon being asked about the error. Not part of the restructure’s working group, the rep had no idea about the slip-up. 

He felt many students didn’t know about the remodel. And when asked if he thought there had been enough advertising, he shook his head hard.  

“They’ve given it a good attempt.”  

He felt with an outside company coming in to help with the restructure – Third Bearing – errors can slip through.  

Later, Mabonga received an email to say that reps outside the working group would be given the chance to give feedback to help shape the review.  

Regardless, he was happy to see Te Tira Ahu Pae taking steps to make a change. “I hope whatever the outcomes is allows the reps to be able to make a good impact on campus.” 

In a statement from the restructure working group, it said: “The Restructure Committee agree that the wording identified “All student representatives are currently elected” was not correct and has been updated.”

The group said it was working to gather student feedback on the remodel through forums, social media, emails, a dedicated website, and advertising in Massive and Radio Control.