NEWS RELEASE
March 30, 2026
Student Organizations Across the Country Release a Joint Publication on Civic Engagement
TORONTO - As the post-secondary sector navigates a myriad of challenges and uncertainty, five student advocacy organizations have come together to release the annual publication Shared Perspectives: A Joint Publication on Civic Engagement. This year’s edition aims to explore an issue that’s been top of mind for many in recent years: civic engagement. In the last five years, there have been at least one election in every province and two federal elections, with every change bringing new policies that affect the lives of many. Although federal and provincial policies deeply impact students' lives, there has been a growing sentiment that voting and other civic processes feel less impactful. This edition of Shared Perspectives dives into what factors cause this feeling of disenfranchisement. From discussions on structural barriers to civic engagement, to outlining the many ways students mobilize each other to be involved, the contributors provide a glimpse into students' civic engagement nationwide and map a way forward.
“Politics impacts all aspects of young adults’ lives, and we cannot have a thriving political system unless more young adults engage,” said Sayak Sneddon-Ghosal, OUSA President. "As young adults, we must think about civic engagement beyond the immediacy of voting days. By considering how we can remain informed of governmental changes and make our voice heard to enact change, we contribute to a healthy and thriving democracy.”
Shared Perspectives includes contributions from:
- British Columbia Federation of Students (BCFS)
- Canadian Alliance of Student Associations (CASA)
- College Student Alliance (CSA)
- Ontario Student Voices (OSV)
- Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA)
Shared Perspectives provides robust analyses of the disparities and areas for improvements in regards to civic engagement. While there is no single correct approach to increasing the presence of student voice in civic affairs, this publication aims to provide insights at the national and provincial levels and contribute to the ongoing conversation. Ultimately, it is essential that students understand that their civic efforts are essential tools for democratic change and that elected officials recognize the importance of the student perspective.
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About: OUSA represents the interests of 160,000 professional and undergraduate, full-time and part-time university students at nine student associations across Ontario. Our vision is for an accessible, affordable, accountable, high-quality, and equitable post-secondary education in Ontario.
Contact:
Tobi Olumurewa
Manager of Communications
Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance