'Bullying' oversight for Selwyn College

After allegations of bullying at Selwyn College, the students' association at the hall of residence cannot hold its formal meetings without an observer - and university student leaders are concerned the move could infringe on their rights.

Critic Te Arohi magazine reported a tradition of awards being given out to first-year residents by a college students' association committee.

Titles such as ``Black Rabbit'' and ``Animal Channel'' were given out, and recipients were unaware the names stood for ``best rack'', and ``awkward chat'', as well as other more explicit nicknames.

Selwyn College board of governors chairman the Rev Aaron Douglas said in a statement college leaders and the board were ``extremely disturbed'' to learn inappropriate nicknames had been given out at the association's annual meeting this year.

The student association president had agreed to have an observer present at future formal meetings - and the committee concerned had been told any meetings held without consultation could result in dismissal from the college.

Otago University Students' Association administrative vice-president Cameron Meads said yesterday the condition Selwyn students could no longer hold their meetings without an observer raised ``concerns around intrusion''.

``We understand this measure is in response to inappropriate actions at the college; however, we would encourage a collaborative response to such concerns,'' he said.

``We hope, in future, that students can work internally to address such issues rather than outcomes that infringe on students' associations' right to organise freely.''

Mr Douglas said the board had a ``duty to ensure all staff and entities that use the name of Selwyn College are living up to and perpetuating'' the values of the college.

While Critic said the tradition dated at least as far back as 2009, Mr Douglas said he did not know how long it had been going on and the board was grateful it had been brought to its attention.

In response to a suggestion from a former resident there was ``elitist'' culture in the college, Mr Douglas said the college was taking steps to ensure ``a more diverse student body''.

University public law lecturer Andrew Geddis said he could not see much of an issue with the approach taken by the board of governors.

``The [Selwyn College Students' Association] is a creation of the college, its members are subject to the college's disciplinary rules, which require `appropriate and respectful standards of behaviour in relation to others','' Prof Geddis said.

elena.mcphee@odt.co.nz