As Kieran Minto wraps up his term as Students’ Union President at Queen’s University Belfast, we caught up with him to reflect on a landmark year of wins, challenges, and huge student impact. From blocking tuition fee hikes to launching innovative sustainability projects, Kieran shares what it’s been like leading the SU through a time of major change and what students can expect going forward.
Q: Kieran, congratulations on finishing your term. How would you sum up the year in the Students’ Union?
A: It’s been transformative. We’ve fundamentally changed both the University and government policy, fought back against financial pressures, and been named the No. 1 Students’ Union in the UK. It’s been intense but incredibly rewarding.
Q: Greater ethical investment has been a huge focus this year at Queen’s. How has the SU played a role in that?
A: The Students’ Union has a long-standing and sustained history of student activism and advocacy around divestment and ethical investments. We had a major win being one of the first unions to secure university divestment from Israeli companies, the introduction of scholarships and academic places for Palestinian students and scholars, the creation of an ethical investment policy and increased student representation on key committees.
In 2023, students voted overwhelmingly in favour of a referendum mandating the SU to pressure the University to review its investments. Since then, we’ve been encouraged by the University’s willingness to engage in meaningful conversations with us on this issue which has ultimately led to real results.
This is of course on going process we will continue to be a major player in.
Q: It seemed like this year, there was a constant threat of impending prices increases for students. How’s the SU played a role in pushing back on that?
A: Absolutely. This year students faced the constant threat of rising costs, from tuition fees to rent and everyday living expenses. The cost of living is high, and while the University is under financial pressure, we’re clear that students should not be the ones to carry that burden. The Students’ Union has lobbied at both Government and University levels to resist these increases, and we’ve been successful in several key areas. We blocked a proposed £1,000 tuition fee hike, stopped a planned 14% rise in University accommodation costs, and secured a 20% uplift to student maintenance loans across Northern Ireland – the largest increase in over a decade.
Beyond that, we’ve supported students through practical initiatives like the opening of the SU Swap Shop, providing affordable and sustainable clothing and household items. We also secured continued funding for The Pantry, helping students access free food during tough times.
Q: What updates can you give us on lecture recordings?
A: For years lecture recordings are something that students have asked us to campaign for. In my first year as Postgraduate education Officer, we successfully pushed for a pilot lecture capture policy and thanks to its success this year, the University is now moving forward with a full roll-out starting September next year.
This is a major win for accessibility, those who struggle with English and especially for students balancing study with work, health challenges, or caring responsibilities.
Q: You’ve been really involved in shaping academic changes this year.
A: Yes, so one of the big changes coming next year is how the academic year is structured. We’ve been closely involved in changes that will introduce consolidation weeks, a more structured start for first years and standard study weeks. The idea is that it will give students time to catch up, reflect, and settle in, rather than feeling constantly under pressure. These changes came directly from student feedback, and we’re proud to see that input shaping real improvements.
Q: There have been many strides forward this year, What do you think will have the most lasting legacy?
A: It might be the cultural shift – students having more influence at the highest levels. We’ve strengthened our place on university committees, helped redesign officer roles and governance, and pushed for students to be taken seriously in decision-making spaces. It’s a huge cultural change.
Q: You’re finishing on a high. Any final reflections?
A: It’s been a year to remember! I’m proud of the wins, of the team, and of the students who backed us throughout. We made this one of the most successful the union has ever had and I hope it shows what’s possible when students organise, speak up, and push for more. I’m leaving the SU in a strong place and I know the next Officer team will take it even further.
