The period after which was characterized by 3 years of maintaining the status quo, with SDM candidates being elected to KSU almost unopposed except for a few independent candidates here and there, all of which didn’t even manage to get elected in one office. 

In JC, the rivalry was much more present with elections happening between the two as recent as November 2021 with Pulse winning with a margin of about 500 votes. However, nothing screams maintaining the status quo more than the fact this year, for the first time in a long while, SDM didn’t even contest for KSJC this year, citing

KSJC is intended to better the student life on campus, and as SDM we feel like that the purpose of the council has moved away from its purpose these last few years

Adding to that

As SDM we are currently conducting a self-assessment exercise in order to rediscover our values and our purpose, in order to be able to represent the student body as a whole once again, hence why the decision not to contest was taken.   

SDM, via Facebook post statement

Pulse jumped on the occasion to condemn SDM for boycotting the elections, stating

Such a decision is a huge disappointment for student representation, considering that the KSJC elections are well known for attracting high-turnout voters when compared to other educational institutions.

Pulse, via Facebook post statement

Which is ironic given the fact that Pulse themselves haven’t participated in KSU elections since 2018. All Pulse candidates have been elected in KSJC which means that Pulse has been elected for the record-breaking 7th consecutive year.

The situation in MCAST is no different from KSJC. SDM have not contested for KSM for a number of years, with Pulse electing all nine candidates once again in 2022.

So, to recap: SDM has the University of Malta’s KSU, while Pulse has Junior College’s  KSJC and MCAST’s KSM. All of which have been elected without a full on election that could change the fact that each of these political organisations controls the respective councils, with both KSJC and KSM being contested by an independent candidate for the role of president, while KSU’s international office was the only contested office for 22/23. None of these councils have changed hands since 2016, 6 years ago!

A New Chapter Of The Same Old Story? 

For the last two years, both SDM and Pulse were led by the same President and most of the executive teams, Sheldon Zerafa for SDM and Isaak Koroma for Pulse. This period was characterized by a decrease in student activism for both organisations and a focus on low-effort leisure events for students’ political organizations such as picnics, pizza nights, numerous gatherings, and boat parties. Important events to build communities of course but these events shouldn’t overshadow the main goals of these organizations which some might argue they did. Yet, there was a glimpse of what these organizations could reach with Pulse, for example, working on events such as ACT | Panel discussion on housing or the Campus Tech summit they hosted for 3 days with UM Futsal, or SDM annual Survey Semma’ Leħnek – UM survey. But for the general student public, both organizations present has definitely decreased since they last butted heads in University. 

This however might change in the future as both organisations have elected new presidents this year to lead their respective organisations. SDM elected Hertain Salameh Cachia who has been part of student organizations for a quite long time making part of UM Futsal executives who won the E&L Futsal Trophy last June and is already making some waves within the organisation who went right into work by being quite up to date with statements regarding students issues and starting their charity campaign  “spreading Joy “ with Puttinu Cares & Malta Community Chest Fund.  

On the other hand, Pulse has also elected a new president, Karl Schembri, who has worked his way up Pulse executives as he was JC executive for term 2019/2020 and a Vice President in KSJC for term 2020/2021 as Pulse Candidate winning the election against SDM candidate for that position with 860 votes with more than 350+ vote differences. Since Karl’s election Pulse has been part of both University and JC Christmas on Campus and their social media presence has started to pick up in posts too. They have also recently announced their campaign Solidarjeta’ ghall-istrina in aid of L-Istrina.

It’s too early to judge the future of the organisation now but the change in executive and the trust in new blood for both organisations does bring some hope for change in the future and might bring both organisations into the forefront of student political activism in new ways most new students haven’t had the chance to experiences yet. Filling the void that was created by the dampening of both organisations’ presence around the year except in two weeks of elections in the University of Malta, JC, or MCAST.  

Both Presidents Comment On SDM Vs Pulse Rivalry

The Third Eye contacted both presidents and asked for a comment with regard to the situation, here’s what they had to say

First of all I would like to start by thanking all former SDM alumni for there priceless work carried out throughout the organisation’s almost 50 years of existence. I keep in mind the immense responsibility everyday and in every decision carried out.

Whilst reflecting over the organisation’s past year I cannot possibly overstate how proud I am of our commitment in retaining the best possible option year after year when it comes to the University of Malta Student Council, KSU. Like I have already stated at the very beginning of my term, this year is all about the student body and making the student and their concerns, the center of our agenda. This is why, I promise that for another year, as always, we will make it our priority to be as representative as possible and once again present the best possible options from all over University. I would also like to thank the current KSU executive for their stellar work so far into their term.

Saying that, we are also very aware of our previous short-comings in other Educational Institutes. Work for regeneration has already started and progress is already being made. As I said above, SDM strives to be as representative as possible and we do realise that the best possible way to achieve this is to be more present and vocal in all Institutes in which the organisation resides.

Lastly, I do believe that the rivalry between both organisations, throughout history, has been a healthy one, in which both organisations have been able to bring about the best out of each other. I would also like to comment that out of a fruitful rivalry between our organisations, activism as a whole will thrive. I look forward to lead SDM into a new chapter, a new era, that of inclusivity and togetherness.

SDM president Hertain Salameh Cachia

Personally I feel that this year pulse is looking to revive student activism in all institutions, taking into consideration the footsteps of our predecessors.

Change has brought good in both organizations and it has rekindled spark and competition between both.

I feel lucky to have been given the responsibility at such a delicate time in the organizations history.

Looking forward for further goals and achievements, and I invite and wish for both organizations to participate and take action in all endeavors and institutions.

Pulse president Karl Schembri

The Third Eye Wishes success and progress for both organisations in their effort to give voice to and represent students’ needs 

The post Out with the Old, in with the New: The Next Chapter of SDM vs Pulse!  appeared first on The Third Eye.

Presidential Comment

Honored to have been given the chance to lead this dynamic team. I promise that I will always follow the footsteps of my predecessors that have given me the opportunity. Looking forward to leading and working with my colleagues as we aim to improve the name of the organisation in all institutions across malta and gozo

Karl Schembri

The Third Eye wishes the new executive the best of luck!

The post Pulse 2022/2023 AGM – Karl Schembri to lead appeared first on The Third Eye.

Recap of essential information before the election

In case you missed out on the previous KSJC 2022 article here is a compressed summary:

• 7 from 8 candidates acting on behalf of Pulse, due to the absence of SDM, had been automatically elected
  
• Jake Muscat and Cody Parnis were the two candidates running up for the role of President within KSJC

Final Results

The votes as per the KSJC 2022 Election Page are:

• 277 votes for Cody Parnis
• 749 votes for Jake Muscat

Since Jake, who is acting on behalf of on Pulse, has become the new President, the entire Pulse team will be leading KSJC for the 7th consecutive year.

On behalf of The Third Eye, we wish the team a fruitful year ahead!

The post KSJC 2022 Election – New President Announced appeared first on The Third Eye.

What were the main takeaways from the discussion?

Following the insightful discussion, these points have been drawn up:

• Students feel oppressed by commercial banks in repaying mortgages, given their relatively low income. In most instances students have to acquire a mortgage (a loan specifically for acquiring property), since they have insufficient funds. Banks are a fundamental mediator, as they allow households to borrow against their future-self. That said, they can also exploit their dominant position, particularly since owning shelter is a necessity which we cannot do without. For instance, it may take several years for post-graduates to eventually repay their debt due to their initially low income and higher interest rates.
  
• Uglification of Malta. Land in Malta is evidently scarce. Despite that, demand for properties within Malta has been on the rise for the past few years. Consequently, the Maltese environment has been degrading as construction-free areas continue spreading thin and ‘Green areas’ gradually become a priceless luxury.
  
• Should the government intervene within the housing market? The government is a key agent within the economy. Many advocate for government intervention when markets could improve, such as in this case. However, even though the government would intervene in the market, another major question is postulated: How should the government intervene? Would price ceilings be viable for rented properties? Or should be there some form of subsidy scheme implemented?
  
• People being pushed out of the housing market. As previously mentioned demand for property is high, whilst land is constant (so far). If such trends persist, income earned by households may be inadequate when matching property prices, thereby being excluded for the market. This is especially so if there are other players, such as lucrative businesses which have more funds to utilise.

What can be done to improve the situation?

Pulse encourages students to raise their concerns and engage in discussions in regards of this issue.

A key step to further action is an increase in awareness of the current situation. Maltese citizens start preparing to live elsewhere from their parents’ house at a relatively later stage in their life, suggesting that young people put off understanding the issue or/and taking effective action, provided that it affects them later in the future.

After getting a good grasp of the topic, suggestions or solutions can be put forward. Ultimately, the issue is primarily being faced by the younger generation deciding to continue residing in Malta. Hence it is in their best interest to express their concerns and forge a solution to their issue, otherwise the problem will remain prevalent.

Pulse has also stated that it is engaging with various stakeholders to come up with solutions for the issue. If anyone wishes to put forward ideas/solutions or has any queries regarding this topic, feel free to reach out to Pulse!

The post Pulse – The Severe Challenges Within The Housing Market appeared first on The Third Eye.

KSU Elected Candidates 2022\23

• President: Alex Gaglione
• Vice President for Internal Affairs: Elisa Micallef Peplow
• Vice President for External Affairs: Beppe Lauri
• Secretary General: Claire DeBattista
• Financial Officer: Zane Camilleri
• Public Relations Officer: Gabriel Bonavia
• Students Affairs Officer: Julia Debono
• Social Policy Officer: Jeremy Mifsud
• KSU Education Officer: Angele Gauci
• Culture and Entertainment Co-Ordinator: Matthea Borg
• Culture and Entertainment Co-Ordinator: Raquel Sammut

Cristina Sollami VS Mahmoud Abdelrahman for International Officer

While SDM did not face opposition from Pulse, an independent candidate contested for the role of International Officer. Therefore, while the other eleven roles have been secured by SDM, an election will be held to determine who will fill the position of International Officer.

Comment from Alex Gaglione

Student activism has taken a central role in my University experience. Through my experiences in ELSA Malta and KSU as Social Policy Officer, I feel that it is the next natural step in my days as an activist.

I am confident in my ability to lead, and guide the fantastic team being put forward by SDM. Together, I am certain we continue to take KSU to new heights.

Alex Gaglione

Motions Passed

A number of motions were passed which can be viewed on the KSU website, however, two notable motions are the following:

• The removal of silent day for all elections
• A motion submitted by Waleed Alhweeshel states that an updated version of the statute should always be available on the KSU website in both Maltese and English for better accessibility for students.

The Third Eye wishes the new executive the best of luck for their term!

The post Alex Gaglione to lead KSU for 2022\23 appeared first on The Third Eye.

Pulse 2021\2022 Executive

Isaak Koroma – President
Mariah Zammit – Vice President
Kyle Barbara – Secretary General
Kieran Chetcuti – Financial Officer
Kieran Grech – Assistant Financial Officer
Karl Schembri – KPS
Bjorn Caruana – PRO
Clint Cachia – Media Officer
Selena Mallia – Education Officer
Kylie Mercieca – Assistant Education Officer
Elton Cachia – International Officer
Elisa Gauci – External Officer
Waylan Camilleri Axisa – Human Resources
Kirsten Pace – Liaison Officer
Sara Said – Leisure Officer
Raisa Demanuele – Leisure Officer
Hayley Cassar – Environmental Officer
Gabriel Camilleri – JC Coordinator
Kieran Formosa – Assistant JC Coordinator
Anton Camilleri – University Coordinator
Luke Borg – MCAST Coordinator
Ruud Chircop – Assistant MCAST Coordinator

Presidential Comment

It’s a great honor to be occupying the role of Pulse President for a second consecutive year.

Leading this dynamic team, I will continue building on previous success and I am determined to start paving the way to new opportunities. I look forward to work side by side with the team, where as an organization we shall go out of our comfort zone and face new challenges together.

We are devoted to continue being the voice of all students while also keeping our roots of social democratic values as a priority.

The Third Eye wish the new executive team a fruitful year ahead!

The post Isaak Koroma to lead Pulse for the second year round! appeared first on The Third Eye.

Maria Bonaci, a Pulse candidate, collected 63% of the vote, whilst Armando Xerri gathered the remaining 37% of the vote. Therefore, Pulse successfully managed to elect all 9 candidate into the executive team.

Pulse President went on to say the following:

Pulse once again elects all nine candidates for the KSM-MCAST Student Council, led by Bradley DeBono.

The team listed below received 63 percent of the votes cast by MCAST students. With the slogan “Exceeding Expectations”, Pulse candidates contested the KSM elections, releasing a record-breaking Manifesto with over 130 proposals for MCAST students.

 The newly elected council promises students that they will work hard to raise a strong voice and to represent MCAST students in the best possible way.

Meet the newly appointed council:

Bradley DeBono – President

Denilson Brincat – Vice President

Maria Bonaci – General Secretary

Shelseya Tanti – PRO

Xavier Sant – Financial Officer

 Hayden Pesci – KPS

Rebecca Mifsud – KE

Neil Xuereb – KKD

Tyler Cappello – KKD

The Third Eye wishes the newly appointed KSM team all the best in the coming year!

The post 9\9 for Pulse in KSM Elections appeared first on The Third Eye.

A man attempted to take his own life yesterday by jumping off the Valletta bastions. Several onlookers gathered around the scene, however, most urged the man to jump instead of trying to help him. 

The Third Eye is appalled by the comments that were said to the man who was clearly in a vulnerable position. Suicide is a serious topic that should not be taken lightly and should never be encouraged. 

Student organisations voiced their own thoughts regarding the situation, with KSU highlighting the number of suicide deaths a year

“… close to 800,000 people choose to end their own lives. This works out to one person every 40 seconds.” 

With a number that high, people should be more sensitive to people who are struggling, instead of shaming them for their actions or thoughts. 

Other student organisations spoke out about the events, with the MMSA stating that there should be

“more awareness on the topic.” 

The Third Eye agrees with the above statement, as suicide should not be treated as a taboo subject, but rather as something that should be discussed openly in order to prevent future tragedies. Furthermore, we believe it is critical to educate people from a young age on how to approach someone who has suicidal thoughts and tendencies so that events like those in Valletta do not repeat themselves. 

Betapsi released a statement mentioning important points on what to do when encountering a suicidal person: 

“…the first thing to do is to report it to the police and call an ambulance. When talking to the person, it is important to keep calm and to encourage them to come back to safety.” 

Further organisations, such as SDM, continue to show their support to those struggling by encouraging them to speak up 

“You don’t have to struggle in silence.”

While Pulse raised their concerns over the lack of discussion there is around the topic

“Suicide is a serious public health problem and if the subject of mental health will continue to be neglected in our islands, suicide rated will increase extensively”. 

Student organisations have spoken, and it is clear that serious discussions need to take place regarding the topic of suicide as many feel that education on the subject is lacking, resulting in incidents such as that of yesterday. 

Below are some sources available to use when you need to talk to someone: 

The full comments from the above mentioned student organizations are found here: 

KSU

MMSA

Betapsi

SDM

Pusle

The post Student organisations voice their thoughts following Valletta incident appeared first on The Third Eye.

President:

• Pulse – Jade Muscat – 864
• SDM – Natalya Stivala – 362

Vice-president:

• Pulse – Kieran Muscat – 850
• SDM – Mariah Mangion – 350

KPS:

• Pulse – Faith Casha – 830
• SDM – Leanne Laferla – 351

Secretary General:

• Pulse – Yan Trovato – 867
• SDM – Yana Zammit – 341

Finance Officer:

• Pulse – Kylie Bonnici – 858
• SDM – Jake Ancilleri – 334

PRO:

• Pulse – Jake Spiteri Montebello – 824
• SDM – Wayne Vassallo – 372

KE:

• Pulse – Sarah Cachia – 836
• SDM: Kelly Formosa – 358

KKD:

• Pulse – Jake Muscat – 823
• SDM – Jaedon Lee Zammit – 390

The Third Eye would like to congratulate both parties on their hard work during the campaign, and we wish Pulse a fruitful and eventful year!

The post Pulse wins KSJC 2021 elections appeared first on The Third Eye.

It is an event that multiple JC students look forward to every year but unfortunately, that tradition was broken. Both SDM and Pulse were contacted but Pulse decided not to participate.

The Third Eye went to great lengths to find a time that accommodates both parties, communicating with both presidents at all times. The debate was planned to take place on the 10th of November at 6PM, two days prior the election. Pulse was the one who suggested the debate be moved to 4PM, indicating their initial interest.

Isaak Koroma, Pulse President, was contacted again for confirmation and he stated that Pulse is unable to attend due to other commitments and activities planned for the day, leaving them no time to participate in the yearly debate.

Their refusal to participate halted the planning, leaving members and students alike baffled as to why the debate was not yet announced and why it is not taking place. SDM released a statement after we contacted them that due to unforeseen circumstances, the debate will not take place.

The Third Eye would like to point out that both organisations were contacted as soon as the manifestos are out, which is what the organisation does every year. We are an unbiased organisation and we are saddened that it turned out this way.

The post SDM vs Pulse: The debate that didn’t happen appeared first on The Third Eye.