Former student representative council leaders and academics unpacked their perceptions of the roles and responsibilities of student leadership at university during a Leadership Summit on the Bellville Campus.

The event was initiated by the Vice- Chancellor’s office and organized by the Department of Student Affairs as part of the institution’s Student Leadership Training Academy.

There were two panels that led various discussions on topical issues in student leadership.

One of the panelists was renowned academic, Brian O’Connell, former Vice Chancellor at the University of the Western Cape.

O’Connell explained why universities in Africa have to succeed and why their students are so important. He also challenged the student leaders to ask themselves what value their actions contribute to knowledge production.

Another panelist was CPUT’s Prof Anthony Staak, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching.

Staak says student leadership has a critical role to play in the future of the university and the society.

Student leaders should encourage the establishment of a diverse range of student structures and make sure they are functioning appropriately, says Staak.