Saturday, May 3, 2008

What Makes a Good Leader?

Leadership requires committed and determined leaders. By committed, we refer to the unwavering stance to uphold the democratic aspirations of the students and the people. And determined, we refer to the consistency and willingness of a leader to realize by all means the goals set by the council/organization which are in consonance to the said commitment.

A student leader can only be considered of quality when he/she is service oriented. He/She never loses contact with the students and he/she does not permit power and prestige to be over and above the commitment to serve. A good leader is one who works along with the students and never above them. Being ‘above the members’ is a sign that we are losing grasp of the fundamental principle of ‘leading is serving’.

In particular, a student leader:
1. Has confidence in his/her own capacity especially in the collective capacity of the organization. He/She trusts the students and relies on their collective action at all times;
2. He/She puts the interests of the organization above personal interests;
3. He/She strives to relate well with all the members and leaders of the organization without compromising the basic principles of the organization;
4. Is courageous and unwavering in his/her stand to promote the protection and advancement of the genuine student’s interests;
5. Trains other members who have the potential to lead;
6. Accepts criticisms and rectify errors.