N.Z.U.S.A.

I would like to begin this message by extending to all Students' Association Executives, and to individual students of the University of New Zealand, greetings and best wishes for a successful year from N.Z.U.S.A.

Next, I would like to bring to your notice a matter which has been causing us some concern at Headquarters, and that is the furnishing of detailed and accurate information to help us in representing matters affecting students to the authorities.

As you know, the N.Z.U.S.A. executive in Wellington is expected to carry out the policy laid down by Colleges at the annual general meeting, or during the year by correspondence, and this frequently involves making representations to Ministers of the Crown, Government officials or the University authorities. Such representations depend for their effectiveness on the amount of detailed and accurate information we are able to furnish to support our case. Some matters in the past have been delayed or have fallen through because of lack of information from Colleges.

I would appeal to students, therefore, to co-operate with their executives by furnishing information when asked for. In giving such information all relevant details should be mentioned, and it is better to err on the side of over-elaboration of detail. The accuracy of such information is most important, as a case built up on inaccurate information collapses when closely investigated, to the detriment of any future representations. Vague and unauthenticated statements, though sometimes understandable, are worse than useless.

I would urge all students to take an interest in, and support their College Students' Associations, their affiliated clubs and societies, and student activity generally. And, finally, I would remind all New Zealand students of their fortunate position when compared with that of students in the occupied countries of Europe and Asia, especially those in prisoner-of-war, refugee, and internee camps. The comfort and security enjoyed by students in this country carries with it the responsibility of working and studying as never before.