Women failed by Oxford
Today's OUSU by-election for VP (Women) raises a number of important questions, not least that of the need for such a position in the first place. Allegations of inefficiency, wasted resources and superflous staff have often been levelled against the Student Union, but in this case it is in the University itself where there is a clear need for change.
Oxford is an institution biased to its core, an environment run to a significant degree by and for male academics, an environment in which women are still a minority and treated as such. The figures speak for themselves: only 46 per cent of Oxford undergraduates are female, compared to the national average of 53 per cent; and whilst nationally women are twice as likely to get a First as their male counterparts, the achievement of female students under the Oxford system is poor indeed.
The University is outdated, with its continued dependence upon an exam-based system proven to favour male students who work better under pressure. Women may have been attending the University for well over a century, and legitmately receiving degrees since 1920, but Oxford is still a male-dominated and male-orientated institution, with the severe dearth of female academics a testament to the fact.
Not only are current teaching methods failing female students, but the University is also failing to recognise and meet even basic needs. Provision for student parents is simply unacceptable. The position of University Childcare Officer has been vacant for the last six months.
Of course, the issue of pregnancy and childcare is one that could play a deciding role in today's election, with one candidate maintaining a firmly pro-life stance. Regardless of your personal views on the issue of abortion, the role of an elected Student Union officer - part of a crucial welfare team - should be to give the most balanced and least partial advice possible. For this reason The Oxford Student endorses Bex Wilkinson. Her opponent is a candidate who maintains a firmly pro-life stance, one fundamentally opposed to the policy of the union, and as such to the collective interest of the students this organisation represents. This is a dangerous thing indeed.
Clarification: Last week's front page leading article reported that Somerville College students faced a 12 per cent rent rise. The actual figure is 8.5 per cent. We apologise for our error.
13th May 2004