After a big week of campaigning and conversations, we can now announce the results of the 2026 EC Students’ Association Full-Time Officer Elections!
Firstly, thank you to each and every student who took the time to vote – your choice has a huge impact on the role and direction of the Students' Association for the next academic year, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Secondly, well done to all the candidates! They have put their heart and soul into campaigning over this last week. We hope it has been a positive experience for you, and that whatever happens with the results, you can continue to participate in the Students' Association and be involved in our events and activities.
It has been fantastic for the EC Students’ Association staff team to speak to so many students across our four campuses this week. With polling open for a total of four days online, we managed to provide in-person election stalls at every campus, helping students participate in the elections, and having some great conversations along the way.
Now, down to business… With polls closed and votes counted, our next team of Full-Time Officers will take up their posts from the 1st July 2026 until the 30th June 2027.
The results — and the winners are...
President - Oksana Cherkas
Studying English for Work and Training Level 5 (ESOL) at Milton Road Campus
What are your top three priorities for students?
- Stronger Student Voice and Clear Communication
- Improving Learning Experience, Timetabling, and Flexibility
- Addressing Cost of Living and Financial Pressure
Vice-President Activities - Oleksandr Shtepan
Studying NQ ESOL for Study Level 6 (ESOL) at Sighthill Campus
What are your top three priorities for students?
- Create a live communication platform
A student-led space where every voice matters. Through surveys, feedback, and bold ideas, we will listen to students from all campuses, courses, ages, and backgrounds. Whether you run, use a wheelchair, play football, code, game, knit, debate, protect the planet, garden, or speak different languages, there will be a place for you. - Empower and foster societies
All societies are great and small. I will support you in starting, growing, and promoting your clubs – from sports and outdoor activities to creative, cultural, and academic communities. - One family: students and alumni
I want current students and graduates to feel like one family. Each of you is an ambassador of Edinburgh College. Together, we will celebrate individuality, empower difference, and open more opportunities for your future.
Vice-President Welfare - Mary O'Driscoll
Currently serving as Vice-President Activities for EC Students’ Association, previously studied HNC Contemporary Art Practice at Granton
What are your top three priorities for students?
- Ensure students are able to meet their basic needs: food, housing, access to physical and mental health support
- Build on the work I’ve been doing this year to educate students on sexual health and wellbeing, tackling gender-based violence, and making sustainability more accessible
- Create more community-building opportunities for students to improve mental wellbeing
