FATSSSA PRE-ELECTION: Interview with the Financial Secretary Aspirant

 

by Alice Ogar

FATSSSA PRESS: Good evening, Taofeek. My name is Alice Ogar, a representative from FATSSSA Press. I’d like to interview you concerning your manifesto and plans for the office of Financial Secretary in the forthcoming elections.

Taofeek: Good evening.

FATSSSA PRESS: Kindly introduce yourself.

Taofeek: My name is Taofeek Adeniyi Rasheed, also known as Top. I am a 300-level student in the Department of Political Science and a candidate for the office of Financial Secretary in FATSSSA.

FATSSSA PRESS: You emphasized accountability and transparency in your manifesto. Can you provide specific examples of how you’ve upheld these values in your previous roles, such as an auditor or CEO?

Taofeek: Accountability and transparency are principles I hold in high esteem. I believe that without them, an organization is bound to fail. In my previous roles, I have upheld these values by establishing structures and integrating technology.

For example, I implemented a hierarchy that ensures clear responsibilities and accountability. Additionally, I used software applications to monitor services and finances effectively, which has helped maintain transparency and accountability in my company.

FATSSSA PRESS: Your manifesto mentions developing clear financial policies. How do you plan to ensure these policies are practical and not just theoretical?

Taofeek: Policies are principles of action designed to guide decision-making, and they must be practical. According to our constitution, one of my duties as Financial Secretary is to ensure that all transactions follow proper procedures, including obtaining approval from the FATSSSA House of Representatives.

Therefore, the financial policies I propose will include clear, laid-down rules and regulations designed for the betterment of the faculty. These policies will not be theoretical but will align with constitutional guidelines.

FATSSSA PRESS: One of your responsibilities is to generate and collect revenue. Can you elaborate on strategies to meet financial targets without overburdening students?

Taofeek: I plan to employ several strategies. One involves categorizing revenue sources into "in-source" and "out-source."

In-source: This includes leveraging FATSSSA TV to promote students' entrepreneurial activities at subsidized rates, potentially with the help of the PRO.

Out-source: I will write to prominent individuals and organizations, both within and outside Nigeria, seeking support and sponsorship.

FATSSSA PRESS: You mentioned "many" strategies. Are there additional sources you’d explore?

Taofeek: Yes, there are certainly other ways to generate revenue, and I believe we’ll discover more as the administration progresses.

FATSSSA PRESS: Revenue generation through partnerships and sponsorships is part of your plan. How do you intend to identify and approach organizations willing to collaborate with FATSSSA?

Taofeek: To attract organizations, we will highlight the benefits they stand to gain, such as access to our large student population. We’ll target companies like beverage brands and telecom firms such as MTN, whose products students frequently use.

Additionally, small enterprises can advertise their products through FATSSSA TV in exchange for sponsorships, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.

FATSSSA PRESS: Budgeting is crucial to the faculty’s financial stability. How will you ensure funds are allocated equitably and effectively across various initiatives?

Taofeek: Budget management, communication, and collaboration are key. We’ll allocate funds efficiently by following proper procedures.

Our budget management team will identify critical programs, analyze potential risks, and prioritize initiatives that offer the greatest benefits to FATSSSAites.

FATSSSA PRESS: Given your prior experience in finance, how would you handle situations where expenditures exceed the budget?

Taofeek: To prevent such situations, we’ll prioritize thorough planning and proactive budgeting. However, in unforeseen circumstances like inflation, we’ll analyze potential risks and implement cost-saving measures, ensuring expenses are allocated effectively.

FATSSSA PRESS: What steps will you take to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to FATSSSAites?

Taofeek: The current administration has implemented an efficient dues collection system via Google Forms. I plan to leverage this system to provide accurate and timely reports.

We’ll use this data to generate weekly and monthly financial reports, which will be shared with FATSSSAites through platforms like FATSSSA TV, in line with constitutional guidelines.

FATSSSA PRESS: Collaboration and communication are core to your vision. How do you plan to involve all stakeholders in financial decision-making without compromising efficiency?

Taofeek: By fostering open communication while adhering to constitutional guidelines. We’ll involve stakeholders through structured channels, ensuring their input is valued while maintaining efficiency.

 

FATSSSA PRESS: If elected, how will you balance your academic commitments with the demanding responsibilities of this office?

Taofeek: Through effective planning and time management, I will ensure both responsibilities are handled efficiently.

FATSSSA PRESS: Finally, your manifesto outlines various plans for financial planning and sustainability. How will you measure the success of your tenure if elected?

Taofeek: Ultimately, FATSSSAites are the ones who measure the success of any executive. Their feedback at the end of my tenure will reflect whether I’ve succeeded in meeting their expectations.

FATSSSA PRESS: Thank you for your time, Taofeek.

Taofeek: Thank you very much! It’s been a pleasure.