What is the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA)?

The Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) is the official students' union for the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Its primary objective is to advance the education of Edinburgh students by representing and supporting them, and by promoting their interests, health, and welfare within the wider community.

How is EUSA led and managed on a day-to-day basis?

EUSA is led by a team of five elected student sabbatical officers who are full-time representatives. These officers are responsible for the day-to-day leadership and management of the association's activities and student representation.

What is the distinction between EUSA and the Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU)?

Unlike many student unions, EUSA does not oversee student sports. Student sports at the University of Edinburgh are managed by a separate organization, the Edinburgh University Sports Union (EUSU), which has its own representative and organizational structure and collaborates with the university's Centre for Sport and Exercise.

Who is the current President of EUSA?

As of March 2025, Ash Scholz is the current President of the Edinburgh University Students' Association.

When was the Students' Representative Council (SRC) founded, and by whom?

The Students' Representative Council (SRC) at Edinburgh was founded in 1884 by Robert Fitzroy Bell, a student who brought together various university clubs and societies.

What was the purpose of establishing the Edinburgh University Union (EUU)?

Following the founding of the SRC, it voted to establish the Edinburgh University Union (EUU) to provide social space and recreational facilities for students. This initiative involved significant public fundraising efforts.

How was the original Union building funded and who was the architect?

The construction of the Union building, known as Teviot Row House, was funded by a combination of public donations, a fancy fair held at Waverley Market, and contributions from the Town Council and Senatus Academicus, totaling £15,600. The architect for the building was Sydney Mitchell.

What is significant about Teviot Row House?

Teviot Row House, officially opened in 1889, holds the distinction of being the oldest purpose-built student union building in the world. It was initially established as an autonomous organization and did not admit women until 1971.

When were the Edinburgh University Women's Union and the King's Buildings Union established?

The Edinburgh University Women's Union was founded in October 1905. The King's Buildings Union was established in 1931.

When did the main student representative bodies merge to form EUSA?

The Students' Representative Council (SRC), the Edinburgh University Union (EUU), and the Chambers Street Union merged on July 1, 1973, to form the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA).

Why is EUSA considered the oldest students' union in the UK?

EUSA is considered the oldest students' union in the UK because the Students' Representative Council (SRC), which could not be dissolved at the time of the merger due to the Universities (Scotland) Act 1889, predates other student unions.

What significant mergers occurred in the 1990s and early 2000s involving EUSA?

In 1994, EUSA was forced to merge with the King's Buildings Union, despite member opposition. Subsequently, EUSA also merged with the Moray House Institute of Education Union and the Edinburgh College of Art Union.

What was EUSA's relationship with the National Union of Students (NUS) over time?

EUSA disaffiliated from the National Union of Students (NUS) in 1976 but reversed this decision and reaffiliated in 2004.

When did EUSA formally twin with Birzeit University Student Council?

EUSA formally twinned with the Birzeit University Student Council in the West Bank in 2005, involving exchanges of delegations between the two unions.

What changes were made to EUSA's constitution and legal status around 2011-2014?

Following a student consultation and referendum in February 2012, a new constitution was established in 2011 and amended in 2013, taking full effect in 2014. This incorporated EUSA as a charitable company limited by guarantee and restructured its democratic processes, including the formation of the board of trustees.

What initiative did EUSA join in 2016 to support student cooperatives?

In 2016, EUSA became the first UK students' union to affiliate with Students for Cooperation as an affiliated supporter, aiming to promote and support student-led cooperatives.

What was the outcome of the 2016 referendum regarding EUSA's name?

In 2016, EUSA held a referendum on changing its name to 'University of Edinburgh Students' Union'. The student membership rejected this proposed name change by 69.9%.

What rebranding efforts did EUSA undertake after the 2016 name change referendum?

Following the rejection of the name change, EUSA initiated a major rebranding program. This included changing its logo and encouraging members and the public to refer to the organization as 'the Association' or 'your Students' Association' instead of 'EUSA'.

What controversy arose in 2013 concerning EUSA and 'The Student' newspaper?

In 2013, EUSA faced criticism for using the Court of Session to 'censor' the student newspaper, 'The Student', which was about to publish details of the suspension of a vice-president. EUSA's President defended the action as necessary to protect employee rights.

Why did EUSA ban the song 'Blurred Lines' in its venues?

EUSA banned Robin Thicke's song 'Blurred Lines' in 2013 because it was deemed to promote an unhealthy attitude towards sex and consent, and to be in breach of EUSA's policy against 'Rape Culture and Lad Banter on Campus', which aimed to combat myths around sexual violence and the sexual objectification of female students.

What legal threat did EUSA face in 2014 related to the Socialist Workers Party (SWP)?

In 2014, EUSA was threatened with legal proceedings by Charlie Kimber of the Socialist Workers Party (SWP) following a motion to ban the SWP from the Edinburgh campus due to the 'Comrade Delta' rape scandal within the party. EUSA eventually withdrew the motion.

What actions did the editors of 'The Student' newspaper take in response to the SWP legal threat?

In response to the legal threat from the SWP, the editors of 'The Student' newspaper manually ripped pages out of their printed newspapers to avoid personal legal liability, even though the story had already been printed before the motion was withdrawn.

What are the primary activities undertaken by EUSA?

EUSA's activities encompass representing and campaigning for students, administering university societies, operating bars and other venues, organizing volunteering opportunities, and providing welfare and advice services. They also organize major events like Freshers' Week and the Graduation Ball.

What types of campaigns has EUSA supported since 2010?

Since 2010, EUSA has supported campaigns for same-sex marriage, against tuition fee rises and education cuts, and for improved private tenancy rights. They also lobby the university on internal issues like childcare and were instrumental in making Edinburgh a Fairtrade University.

What action did EUSA take regarding Robert Mugabe's honorary degree?

In 2007, after years of pressure from EUSA, the University Senate revoked the honorary degree that had been awarded to Robert Mugabe in 1984 for his services to education in Africa.

How many affiliated societies does EUSA support?

EUSA supports and oversees over 280 affiliated societies, covering a wide range of interests including academic disciplines, political parties, nationalities, and minority groups.

Which society is the oldest affiliated with EUSA, and what is its status?

The oldest society affiliated with EUSA is The Diagnostic Society of Edinburgh. Although it predates the SRC, it is currently merged under EUSA while retaining general operational independence.

What role does EUSA play in student theatre at Edinburgh?

EUSA supports student theatre through organizations like the Edinburgh University Theatre Company (EUTC), which has managed Bedlam Theatre (the oldest student-run theatre in Britain) and The Improverts (an improvised comedy troupe) since the early 1980s. Other theatre societies include Edinburgh University Footlights, Edinburgh University Savoy Opera Group (EUSOG), and Theatre Paradok.

What is the significance of the Edinburgh University Music Society (EUMS)?

Founded in 1867, the Edinburgh University Music Society (EUMS) is the second oldest music society in the United Kingdom. It comprises a Symphonic Chorus, Symphony Orchestra, and Sinfonia, performing multiple concerts annually.

Which media-related societies are supported by EUSA?

EUSA supports several media societies, including 'The Student' (the university's student newspaper), 'Fresh Air' (a student radio station), the Edinburgh Movie Production Society (EMPS), the Edinburgh Film Society, and EUTV (Edinburgh University Television Station).

What are some examples of charitable and campaigning societies supported by EUSA?

Examples of charitable and campaigning societies supported by EUSA include Edinburgh Global Partnerships, the local branch of the Nightline support hotline, and the People & Planet network.

How is the LGBT+ community represented within EUSA's affiliated groups?

The LGBT+ community is represented by five EUSA groups: LGBT+ Medics, LGBTQ+ Campaign, LGBTQ+ Law Society, LGBTQ+ Peer Mentoring, and PrideSoc.

How many bars and catering outlets does EUSA operate?

EUSA operates 13 bars, 7 catering outlets, 5 shops, and a catering company named Honours Catering. Many of these venues also serve as Edinburgh Fringe venues during August.

What facilities are housed within Teviot Row House?

Teviot Row House, the oldest purpose-built student union building globally, contains six bars (The Library Bar, The Sports Bar, The New Amphion, The Lounge Bar, Teviot Underground, and The Loft Bar), a nightclub called Teviot Underground, and various meeting rooms and halls. It also serves as a primary venue for the Gilded Balloon during the Edinburgh Fringe.

What key facilities are found in the Potterrow building?

Potterrow, located on Bristo Square, houses two shops, two cafes, a nightclub with a 1200 capacity, the Activities Office, the student support centre known as The Advice Place, and EUSA's main administrative offices. During the Fringe, it is branded as the 'Pleasance Dome'.

What services are available at the King's Buildings House?

King's Buildings House, located in the south of the city and serving the College of Science and Engineering, includes a bar and food outlet, a small gym, a branch of The Advice Place, and a small shop.

How does student membership work at EUSA?

All students at the University of Edinburgh automatically become members of EUSA upon matriculation. However, they retain the right to opt out of membership, as permitted by the Education Act 1994.

What are the roles of the five Sabbatical Officers?

The five Sabbatical Officers are: President (overall functioning and external politics), Vice President Activities and Services (VPAS - societies and non-academic services), Vice President Community (VPC - housing, transport, sustainability), Vice President Education (VPE - academic matters), and Vice President Welfare (VPW - student welfare).

How is democratic policy-making facilitated within EUSA?

Democratic policy-making is primarily handled through an open Student Council, which meets monthly during term-time. The Council holds the elected Officers accountable and creates the association's policy.

When are student elections held at EUSA, and for which positions?

Elections are held twice a year: Spring elections for Sabbatical Officers, School Representatives, and other key roles, and Postgraduate elections in the Autumn for postgraduate positions and any unfilled Spring election roles. Both use online ballots.

What is the composition of EUSA's Board of Trustees?

The Board of Trustees consists of the five Sabbatical Officers, four student trustees appointed for two-year terms, and three external trustees appointed by the student trustees for a maximum of three years. Trustees can serve a maximum of two terms.

What is the purpose of EUSA's subsidiary company, EUSACO?

EUSACO is a wholly-owned subsidiary company that handles activities falling outside EUSA's charitable remit, such as operations related to the Edinburgh Fringe festival and external catering services.

Who is listed as a notable former office bearer and founder of the SRC?

Robert Fitzroy Bell is listed as a notable former office bearer and the founder of the SRC, serving as its President in 1884.

Which prominent politician served as EUSA member and Rector of the University of Edinburgh?

Gordon Brown was an EUSA member from 1972-75 and was elected Rector of the University of Edinburgh in 1972, serving until 1975.

Which current UK political figures are listed as notable former EUSA office bearers?

Notable former EUSA office bearers include Eleanor Laing MP (Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons), Maggie Chapman MSP (Scottish Green Party), Kezia Dugdale MSP (Labour), and David Steel, Baron Steel of Aikwood (former MP, MSP, and Leader of the Liberal Party).

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Understanding EUSA

The Student Body's Voice

The Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) serves as the official students' union for the University of Edinburgh. Its core mission is to advance the education of Edinburgh's students by providing robust representation, comprehensive support, and actively promoting their interests, health, and welfare within the broader community. EUSA is a democratic membership organisation, a charitable body, and a company limited by guarantee, ensuring accountability and structured operation.

Membership and Leadership

Upon matriculation, all students at the University of Edinburgh automatically become members of EUSA. The association's day-to-day leadership is vested in a team of five full-time, elected student sabbatical officers, each responsible for distinct areas of student governance and welfare. These officers, alongside elected representatives and a Board of Trustees, form the governance framework that guides EUSA's operations and strategic direction.

Affiliations and Reach

EUSA is affiliated with the National Union of Students (NUS) in the United Kingdom, aligning with national student advocacy efforts. It also engages with various campaigns and organizations, including the National Campaign Against Fees and Cuts, and has historical affiliations promoting educational rights and social justice. This network extends EUSA's influence beyond the university campus, connecting it to wider student movements and societal issues.

A Rich Historical Trajectory

Foundational Years (1884-1972)

The origins of EUSA trace back to 1884 with the establishment of the Students' Representative Council (SRC) by Robert Fitzroy Bell. This marked the beginning of organized student representation. Shortly thereafter, the SRC initiated fundraising for a dedicated student union building, culminating in the opening of Teviot Row House in 1889, recognized as the world's oldest purpose-built student union. The landscape evolved with the founding of the Edinburgh University Women's Union in 1905 and the King's Buildings Union in 1931, reflecting the growing diversity and needs of the student population.

Consolidation and Merger (1970-2000)

A significant transformation occurred on July 1, 1973, when the SRC, the Edinburgh University Union (EUU), and the Chambers Street Union merged to form the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA). This consolidation aimed to create a unified student body. The period also saw EUSA disaffiliate from the National Union of Students (NUS) in 1976, a decision later reversed in 2004. Further mergers with the Moray House Institute of Education Union and the Edinburgh College of Art Union integrated these institutions into the EUSA structure.

1884: Founding of the Students' Representative Council (SRC).
1889: Opening of Teviot Row House, the first purpose-built student union.
1905: Establishment of the Edinburgh University Women's Union.
1931: Foundation of the King's Buildings Union.
1973: Merger of SRC, EUU, and Chambers Street Union to form EUSA.
1976: EUSA disaffiliates from NUS (rejoining in 2004).
1994: Merger with King's Buildings Union.
Post-1994: Integration of Moray House and Edinburgh College of Art Unions.

Modern Era and Rebranding (2000-Present)

The 21st century brought structural and operational changes, including the establishment of a new constitution in 2011 (amended in 2013 and effective 2014), formalizing EUSA as a charitable company limited by guarantee. In 2016, EUSA became the first UK student union to affiliate with Students for Cooperation, promoting student-led cooperatives. This period also saw a significant rebranding initiative, including a new logo and a shift in organizational identity, though a proposed name change to "University of Edinburgh Students' Union" was rejected by students in a 2012 referendum.

Engagement and Advocacy

Campaigning and Representation

EUSA actively engages in campaigning and advocacy on behalf of its student members. Historically, it has supported initiatives such as same-sex marriage rights, opposition to tuition fee increases and education cuts, and improvements in private tenancy rights. EUSA also plays a crucial role in lobbying the university administration on internal matters, including student support services and the university's commitment to Fairtrade status, which Edinburgh achieved in 2004.

Societies and Cultural Life

EUSA oversees and supports a vibrant ecosystem of over 280 affiliated societies, catering to diverse academic, political, cultural, and social interests. This includes long-standing societies like The Diagnostic Society, active student theatre groups such as the Edinburgh University Theatre Company (EUTC) which manages Bedlam Theatre, musical societies like the Edinburgh University Music Society (EUMS), and various media outlets including The Student newspaper and Fresh Air radio. Numerous charitable and campaigning groups, alongside specific LGBT+ representation, further enrich student life.

Events and Services

Beyond representation and society support, EUSA organizes major student events, including Freshers' Week, club nights, pub quizzes, and the annual Graduation Ball. It also provides essential services such as welfare and advice through The Advice Place, operates a network of bars, catering outlets, and shops across university sites, and facilitates volunteering opportunities. Many of these venues also serve as key locations during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Campus Hubs and Facilities

Teviot Row House

As the largest EUSA building and the world's oldest purpose-built student union, Teviot Row House on Bristo Square is a landmark. It houses six distinct bars, a nightclub (Teviot Underground), and numerous meeting rooms and halls. Its historical significance is matched by its contemporary role as a major venue, particularly during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The Pleasance

The Pleasance serves as a vital space for student societies during term time, offering meeting rooms. It also features two bars and a theatre with a capacity of approximately 300. During the Edinburgh Fringe, it transforms into the "Pleasance Courtyard," a major festival hub operated by the Pleasance Theatre Trust.

Potterrow Student Centre

Located adjacent to Teviot on Bristo Square, Potterrow is distinguished by its iconic dome. This facility includes shops, cafes, a large nightclub, the Activities Office, a student support centre, and EUSA's administrative offices. Like The Pleasance, it becomes a significant venue during the Fringe, branded as the "Pleasance Dome."

King's Buildings Facilities

Serving the College of Science and Engineering in the south of the city, King's Buildings House offers essential student amenities, including a bar, food outlet, small gym, an Advice Place branch, and a shop. Additional outlets like the Magnet Cafe and another shop are located within the James Clerk Maxwell Building and KB Centre, respectively.

Governance Framework

Organizational Structure

EUSA operates as a democratic membership organisation, a registered charity, and a company limited by guarantee. Ultimate oversight rests with a Board of Trustees. All University of Edinburgh students are automatically members, though opt-out provisions exist as per the Education Act 1994. A subsidiary company, EUSACO, handles activities outside EUSA's charitable remit, such as commercial ventures.

Sabbatical Officers

The core student leadership comprises five full-time sabbatical officers, elected annually. These roles include:

President: Oversees overall functioning and external politics.
Vice President Activities and Services (VPAS): Manages societies and non-academic services.
Vice President Community (VPC): Focuses on housing, sustainability, and community engagement.
Vice President Education (VPE): Represents students on academic matters.
Vice President Welfare (VPW): Advocates for student welfare issues.

Democratic Processes

Democratic engagement is facilitated through an open Student Council, which holds officers accountable and sets policy. Elections are held biannually (Spring and Autumn) for sabbatical officers, school representatives, and liberation officers. Various elected representatives also sit on university committees, ensuring student perspectives are integrated into institutional decision-making.

Distinguished Alumni and Figures

Notable Former Office Bearers

EUSA and its predecessor unions have been formative experiences for numerous influential individuals. Notable figures include:

Gordon Brown: Former UK Prime Minister, served as Rector of the University of Edinburgh (1972-75) while a student.
David Steel: Former leader of the Liberal Party, also served as SRC Senior President.
Eleanor Laing: Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, was EUSA Union President.
Kezia Dugdale: Former leader of the Scottish Labour Party, served as EUSA campaigns adviser.
Robert Fitzroy Bell: Founder of the SRC.
Donald Brydon: Chairman of Royal Mail, served as EUU President.

This list represents a fraction of the individuals whose early engagement with student governance at Edinburgh has contributed to their later public service and professional achievements.

Academic and Professional Contributions

Beyond politics, EUSA alumni have made significant contributions in academia and professional fields. Figures like Sir David Orme Masson (chemist and FRS) and Edward Lindsay Ince (mathematician) highlight the strong academic connections. Others, such as Gordon Aikman (MND campaigner) and Susan Deacon (former MSP), demonstrate the diverse impact of EUSA involvement on public life and advocacy.

Points of Contention

Media and Legal Disputes

EUSA has faced scrutiny regarding its interactions with student media. In 2013, the association faced criticism for using legal channels to "censor" The Student newspaper concerning the suspension of a vice-president, a move defended as protecting employee rights. This incident underscored the complex relationship between student governance and press freedom within the union.

Policy and Social Impact

EUSA's policies have occasionally drawn national attention. The 2013 decision to ban Robin Thicke's "Blurred Lines" from its venues, citing concerns about promoting unhealthy attitudes towards sex and consent, sparked debate. This action aligned with EUSA's policy to combat rape culture and "lad banter" on campus, aiming to address sexual objectification and promote respectful discourse.

Political and Internal Matters

Internal political dynamics have also led to controversy. In 2014, EUSA withdrew a motion to ban the Socialist Workers Party (SWP) from campus following threats of legal action related to the "Comrade Delta" rape scandal. This situation highlighted the challenges of navigating sensitive political issues and potential legal liabilities within student organizations.

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References

'Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers' official site.

'LGBT+ Medics'. EUSA.

'LGBTQ+ Campaign'. EUSA.

'LGBTQ+ Law Society'. EUSA.

'LGBTQ+ Peer Mentoring'. EUSA.

'PrideSoc - The Edinburgh University LGBTQ+ Society'. EUSA.

'Labour Students'. EUSA.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Edinburgh University Students' Association Wikipedia page

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Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Content

This document has been meticulously crafted by an advanced AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, offering a structured overview of the Edinburgh University Students' Association for higher education students. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source, the content is based on publicly available data and may not encompass all nuances or the most current developments.

This is not official university guidance or a substitute for direct consultation with EUSA or the University of Edinburgh. The information presented herein should not be considered definitive or exhaustive. Users are encouraged to consult official EUSA and University of Edinburgh resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The creators of this content are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided. This content is presented "as is" without warranty of any kind.

The Nexus of Student Life

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Understanding EUSA 🏛️

🎓 The Student Body's Voice

👥 Membership and Leadership

🔗 Affiliations and Reach

A Rich Historical Trajectory ⏳

📜 Foundational Years (1884-1972)

🤝 Consolidation and Merger (1970-2000)

🌐 Modern Era and Rebranding (2000-Present)

Engagement and Advocacy 📣

⚖️ Campaigning and Representation

🎭 Societies and Cultural Life

🎉 Events and Services

Campus Hubs and Facilities 📍

🏛️ Teviot Row House

🎪 The Pleasance

dome Potterrow Student Centre

🔬 King's Buildings Facilities

Governance Framework ⚙️

📜 Organizational Structure

🧑‍💼 Sabbatical Officers

🗳️ Democratic Processes

Distinguished Alumni and Figures 🌟

💼 Notable Former Office Bearers

🔬 Academic and Professional Contributions

Points of Contention ⚠️

📰 Media and Legal Disputes

🎶 Policy and Social Impact

⚖️ Political and Internal Matters

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Academic Disclaimer ⚖️

📜 Important Notice Regarding Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Understanding EUSA

The Student Body's Voice

Membership and Leadership

Affiliations and Reach

A Rich Historical Trajectory

Foundational Years (1884-1972)

Consolidation and Merger (1970-2000)

Modern Era and Rebranding (2000-Present)

Engagement and Advocacy

Campaigning and Representation

Societies and Cultural Life

Events and Services

Campus Hubs and Facilities

Teviot Row House

The Pleasance

Potterrow Student Centre

King's Buildings Facilities

Governance Framework

Organizational Structure

Sabbatical Officers

Democratic Processes

Distinguished Alumni and Figures

Notable Former Office Bearers

Academic and Professional Contributions

Points of Contention

Media and Legal Disputes

Policy and Social Impact

Political and Internal Matters

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding Content