Charles Darwin University Students' Council (CDUSC) is the voice of all students. We are committed to championing the rights, interests, and welfare of every CDU student.
CDUSC serve as the bridge between students and the university, facilitating seamless and effective communication. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. Our aim is to ensure that your concerns and ideas are not only heard but also acted upon, fostering a vibrant and supportive campus community.
The officers elected for this term are your advocates, representing your interests on issues that matter most to you.
Read more about the CDU Students' Council Constitution (PDF, 401.79 KB).
Connect with CDU Student Council
2024 CDU Student Council Officers
Student Council President
Name: Anjan Paudel
Course: Bachelor of Laws
"I am a young, energetic, and determined individual looking forward to bringing unique collective ideas to CDUSC. I aim to put forward appropriate suggestions and concerns while actively initiating to address them.
I will represent, promote, and advance students’ issues, rights, and interests to build a better platform that will influence our education policy and student culture; because 'We make CDU’."
Student Council Vice President
Name: Emily Hutchinson
Course: Bachelor of Arts
"I'm currently studying as an external student with a goal of studying for a Bachelor of Arts. My time at CDU has enriched my life and I believe strongly in the role of education to empower people and arm them with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. I have a background working in the performing arts and special needs education.
As a mature external student, I am attuned to the difficulties faced by those whose paths to university have been challenging and I aim to be an enthusiastic representative for the external student body. With tenacity and empathy, let me be your voice, and together we can be part of CDU's exciting future."
Treasurer
Name: Aditya Sapkota
Course: Bachelor of Accounting
"I’ve always believed that the best investment any student can make in student life is by being the voice for other students and collectively working for benefits and welfare of large community. I believe I am perfectly able to carry out the responsibilities of CDU student council to promote and advance the rights, interests and welfare of students, represent the views of members, both formally and informally, regarding CDU business when called upon, provide the means for effective communication between students and the CDU and effectively deliver services, amenities and programs for students funded by the CDU. Together “we make CDU”."
Secretary & Online Students Officer
Name: Sarah Petrillo
Course: Bachelor of Psychological Science
"My name is Sarah Petrillo; I am a mature-aged student studying Psychological Science externally. I bring a passion for equity, and I am always looking for opportunities to support people in accessing the things they need to succeed and help them achieve their goals. I would look for ways to enhance the learning opportunities, focusing on remote and online students, to enable equitable access to learning."
Sustainability Officer
Name: Ravi Gunathilaka
Course: Master of Business Administration Sustainable Leadership
"I always wanted to join the student council committee, work with other students from different countries, and see my potential in working as a team. Being a committee member, I can contribute to many activities at CDU which can shape-up me in diverse ways. Student council actually allows you to develop abilities such as leadership, communication, teamwork, organization, and public speaking. Thus, being a council member is a great advantage for my future career as well."
International Officer
Name: Saujan Gyawali
Course: Master of Professional Accounting
"My goal is to ignite a thriving international spirit at Charles Darwin University. I envision a campus that embraces all students, particularly those from overseas. I'll be your voice, advocating for what matters to you. I'll ignite cultural celebrations that bridge the gap and foster understanding while also building resources that empower you to excel in your studies and easily navigate life in Australia.
My proven skills pave the way for fruitful collaborations with international student groups and the wider Darwin network. Working hand-in-hand, we can make CDU a shining example of successful international student integration!"
TAFE Officer
Name: Sithideth Oudomthip
Course: Work Health and Safety Diploma
My name is Sithideth Oudomthip, you can call me Foke as well. I’m an international student pursuing a work health and safety diploma at Charles Darwin University (CDU). As a VET Officer at CDU, I act as a bridge between students and CDU. I ensure that CDU hears the student’s voice regarding the student’s rights, interests, and well-being.
Postgraduate Officer
Name: Alisha Shrestha
Course: Masters in Information Technology
It’s great honour to be part of student council committee, serves as a vocal representative for postgraduate students. I am confident in my ability to fulfil the duties of the CDU student council, which involve advocating for student rights, interests, and well-being, and expressing the perspectives of members on CDU matters in formal and informal settings.
I am committed to making earnest efforts in promoting efficient communication between students and the university, as well as ensuring the effective delivery of services, amenities, and programs. My utmost dedication lies in creating an environment where students can easily communicate with the university and where they can access the services and resources they need in a timely and efficient manner. I strongly believe that by working together, we contribute to the growth and success of CDU as a collective community.
Women's Officer
Name: Stella Jasmine
Course: Master of Nutrition
"I am a team player, enthusiast, adaptable, creative-minded, digitally literate, and a continuous learner. I wish to connect current international and local students with more fun, free student events to grow and learn together to match their skills to their job markets."
Undergraduate Officer
Name:Omar Faruk
Course: Bachelor of Information Technology
"I'm Omar Faruk, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Information Technology at Charles Darwin University. Alongside my studies, I proudly serve as a Student Councilor, representing the voices and interests of my fellow students. With a deep-seated passion for technology and a drive for positive change, I'm dedicated to making a meaningful impact within my academic community and beyond."
The representative positions that makeup CDUSC :
- President
- Vice President
- Secretary
- Treasurer
- Women's Officer
- Postgraduate Officer
- Undergraduate Officer
- International Officer
- First Nations Officer
- Online Students Officer
- Sustainability Officer
- LBGTQIA+ Officer
- TAFE Officer
- Inclusion Officer