This is a response to letter of support for Rolf Reed, by Kristine Wilson.
I would like to clarify a few points in regards to the letter of support for Sigmund Grønmo by ISU-Uib and FSC as previously published.
Firstly, you say that you support Reed as a science and international student, however more importantly as an international one. And it would seem you support Reed because of what he will do in the area of science research at the university, more so than what he will do in the area of international relations and students. It is interesting to note then, that Reed claims he wants to cut the vice-rector for international relations. This is hardly a positive development for this area of UIB, in our opinion.
As for the new UiB buildings, as was stated in the letter, the new biology buildings and the new student centre were built as projected, not planned under Grønmos leadership.
What you may not be aware of is that in 2004, I was a student at UiB on an exchange program, just before Grønmos reign began. My distinct impression is that the university under his leadership is a very different place today because of the work Grønmo has done, which is to make this university a better, stronger and more progressive institution. It is apparent to us that the policy and course Grønmo has chosen, is both positive and effective for both international students and relations and for the university as a whole.
The reason the Times Higher Educational Supplement was used is because it is considered to be a more credible source, I believe, which is also why I suspect Grønmo choose to use it in his first campaign for re-election as well.
You seem to disprove of the fact that ‘student leaders and representatives’ as you put, should come out in support of one candidate over another. The students at UIB elect representatives to be their voice in the university system, and may I add, they did so in record numbers back in October. That was a democratic process, just as the election for Rector is. Perhaps it is the fact that the majority of the student leaders choose to support Grønmo you react to? After all, the ISU/FSC letter is not the only one to be published by student representatives and organisations in support of Grønmo.
The reason why ISU-Uib and FSC made a declaration of support for Grønmo was because a considerable portion of students elected us to speak on their behalf and that’s what we will continue to do. We supported the candidate we believe will best serve the interests of both international and Norwegian students in a fair, open and democratic way.
I would also like to note that when we are elected to represent the students as leaders, in any context, we have a responsibility to look at the whole picture and make decisions based on all the elements of a situation and to take into consideration more than just a narrow selection or even personal interests. What we say influence people and their choices, and I’m sure all of the students in the student government take this seriously. It is essential that the student body engage and take part in the democratic process. So please vote in the election, no matter who you support!