The Future

I fail to see how any Minister of Education or his Government could find a good and sufficient reason for preventing the realisation of our dream. In recent months the Vice-Chancellor reported to Council on the needs in our building programme during the next ten years. Much publicity was given in the Press to this report, which had the Student Building at the top of its list. Not only has the Vice-Chancellor made public comment on the lack of facilities at the Universities and the need for greater provision but so also has the Minister of Education, who seeks to increase his Department's estimate by £ 1m. The Wellington Branch of the University Teachers' Association of New Zealand at its meeting in March made stern comment on the appalling lack of facilities.

page 2

What is held in store for us is not easy to determine. We do hope, however, that we shall have two fine buildings that we shall be proud to call our own. We, as students, and those who were our predecessors, have worked hard and long for something which is much needed. It is our wish that that the Association shall exercise control over the functions and facilities of these buildings and that we shall be able to conduct our own corporate life in our own way.

The suggestion that Council should appoint a Warden to the Union Building is wholly unacceptable. Throughout the 60 years of the Association's existence there has been no such need for supervision. From my reading of our history we have every reason to be proud of the manner in which our students have managed their affairs and the facilities at their disposal.

The possibilities which the new buildings offer are considerable. Our student life has been severely limited in the past and I feel sure that the character of Victoria will be greatly enhanced with the new provisions. The opportunities for students to meet and recreate themselves, to exchange thoughts and ideas and to live a corporate life will be great.

We shall come nearer to the collegiate ideal and the traditions of the European University system which have proved to be worthy over the centuries. It is a kind of life which brings with it immeasurable benefits to those who are so fortunate to enjoy it.

John Marchant, President.