The new student representative for clubs at the University of Otago should not have trouble holding her own in any debates.
Dushanka Govender won this week’s by-election for the vacant clubs and societies position at the Otago University Students’ Association.
She started studying at the university in 2017, her Facebook profile says, and has been a core member of the Otago University Debating Society.
Debating society president Joe Garry said Ms Govender had been the club’s equity officer, focusing on conflict resolution and creating an inclusive environment, and socials officer.
"She has excelled in those roles and built a great reputation around the club and broader university.
"She is a lovely and kind person, and is the perfect person to take on the role at OUSA."
In the first round of voting, Ms Govender received 282 votes, Quintin Jane 241 and Rebecca Turner 179. There were 29 "no confidence" votes.
With Ms Turner out of the race, and after votes were reassigned, Ms Govender attracted 367 votes and Mr Jane 325.
Ms Govender takes over from Josh Smith, who resigned in June.
