what is the abcs?
The Alliance of BC Students (ABCS) is a coalition of three different student associations across British Columbia advocating at the provincial level for accessible and affordable post-secondary education in BC. Collectively, we represent over tens of thousands of undergraduate and graduate students. We are non-partisan, meaning we work with elected officials regardless of political affiliation to bring the needs and interests of students to the forefront of political awareness and priority.
advocacy princples
We exist to advocate for the rights and interests of students across BC for the promotion of accessible, affordable, high-quality post-secondary education for all students.
All of our priorities are decided democratically by our board of directors, with an emphasis on consensus-based decision making. We work collaboratively with all of our member associations to identify the challenges that their students are uniquely facing and develop solutions that are strategic, well-researched, and achievable.
We work year-round to develop strong relationships with elected officials, government staff, and key stakeholders to ensure that student voices are represented and that your needs are heard.
working for you
Many students face significant barriers to accessing education and achieving success due to the cost of housing, lack of tenancy rights, high tuition costs, and so much more. We take these concerns and work on your behalf to address them through a variety of avenues.
We do this through meeting directly with elected officials and government staff, participating in stakeholder groups, collaborating with other associations on open letters on key issues, producing research documents and reports, writing press releases for traditional media outlets, and participating in public awareness events. Our biggest annual push is our Lobby Days conference where we meet with MLAs and Ministers for multiple days in Victoria.
membership
what does membership mean?
Members of the ABCS have access to exclusive meetings with MLAs, Ministers, government staff, and key stakeholder groups, including Translink and BC Transit. Members also get a say in what our priorities are and how we advocate for them. We provide extensive training to our members on advocacy at the provincial and institutional level to ensure that they have the tools they need to effectively represent their students. Most importantly, members have a team of passionate and experienced student leaders and staff from other member associations to advise and collaborate with you. Together, we form a stronger voice for students!
Capilano Students’ Union (CSU)
University of British Columbia
Graduate Student Society (UBC GSS)
Royal Roads University Student Association (RRUSA)