Student government is the process by which students take part in the management of their school, college, or university. Student government usually involves an organization, sometimes called a student council, that represents the interests of students. The organization may also be called a student cabinet, student congress, student legislature, student union, or G.O. (general organization). Most high schools, colleges, and universities have some form of student government.
In most student governments, students elect representatives to a council, governing board, or other group. The group then meets regularly to discuss curriculum, student benefits, alumni relations, and other matters of interest to the students. In many cases, a faculty member serves as a sponsor or adviser to the group. The group also meets with the faculty and administration to discuss student issues.
Student government activities may include sponsoring scholarship and award programs; coordinating student activities; and organizing assembly programs, community projects, fund-raising efforts, conferences, lectures, and other events. In addition, student organizations may campaign for students’ rights. During the mid-1900’s, for instance, many student groups fought to end racial and sexual discrimination in college admissions. Student governments may sponsor student courts, conduct faculty evaluations, and help manage cafeterias, health centers, and other student services. In some cases, a student government may organize travel programs for students.
Most high schools in the United States belong to the National Association of Student Councils (NASC). Many collegiate student organizations belong to the United States Student Association (USSA). Other national student groups include the Student Leadership Network, the National Conference on Student Leadership, and the Student Empowerment Training Project.
In the United Kingdom and in Australia, the National Union of Students represents the interests of student organizations throughout each country. The Canadian Federation of Students performs a similar role in Canada. Student organizations from numerous countries belong to the International Union of Students, based in Prague, in the Czech Republic.
