SRC votes to endorse the abolition of trimesters
In their second meeting of the year, the UNSW SRC has endorsed the end of the trimester system.
During their meeting on Monday the 8th of April, the SRC voted on one of the most contentious and significant issues facing the student body — the potential abolishment of the historically controversial trimester system.
The system began at UNSW in 2019, and led to extensive protests from both staff and students. Despite reports of “needless pressure and disruption”, delays in expected graduation dates, and the reduction of stu-vac and holiday periods, the university has maintained the system for the last 4 years. It has also been criticised for limiting opportunities for deep learning and critical thinking, and reducing time for extracurricular activities, internships, and personal development.
The motion, moved by Education Officer Cherish Kuehlmann, was made in response to internal reviews by the university, which raised questions surrounding the efficacy of the trimester system, its influence on standards of education at UNSW, and concerns regarding student equity. Many have taken this as a sign of the controversial trimester system’s inevitable demise.
Later in the meeting, Kuehlmann also expressed an intention for the SRC to advise the university on the structure of the proposed semesters.
After some debate, the SRC ultimately voted in favour of the motion. They have decided to officially endorse the abolition of the trimester system, and are intending to host student protests and petitions to promote this standpoint.
