Everyone knows that NUSSU is at the head of the student body, affairs and activities, taking note and improving on the key issues that affect our large student population. So when Hooked heard of an independent newspaper in the running, we decide to investigate its purpose and views, and found out that there is far more (or far less, depending on how one views it) to it than it sounds.

       The Campus Observer is the youngest entry into the world of journalism at NUS, with its first publication dated in August, 2006. It was founded by its current executive editor, Clement Tan, a third year Sociology major from the faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Its mission is to provide a public space for students of all nationalities, races and faculties to voice their opinions and interact on a platform meant for debate and dialogue. 

      

       When asked about the motivating factor in setting up this electronic newspaper, Clement states that it was the highly debated issue of the University fee hikes that started the ball rolling. Having attended all the discussion meetings and talks concerning the issue, he was convinced that students' individual ideas and opinions need to be heard. However, though NUSSU does a great job in the running of student affairs, practical reasons such as time constraints, make it impossible for each and every student’s opinion to be heard; hence the idea for a newspaper was born.
 
       For anyone wondering if this newspaper is a publicity stunt or a radical movement, Clement begs to differ.

“Running this newspaper takes too much work for guts or glory, it is based on the altruistic good for the betterment of our student body,” he said. 
  
       However, it seems that not many have heard of this newspaper, (Hooked asked around and received puzzled looks in return). As of yet, the newspaper’s forum remains empty. Though its future is uncertain, Clement is happy in the knowledge that at least he is trying.
 

       Clement reckons that this newspaper is in a league of it’s own as the Ridge is likened to a magazine and Hooked, a newsletter. It is good to note that the Campus observer has neither motive of checking nor attacking anyone or any organisation. Its aim is to provide fresh perspectives on various issues. After all, the student population could definitely be more proactive in the university; instead of viewing it as just an institution that enables one to get a degree. Hopefully, this newspaper will further encourage students to air their views.

“The more perspectives, the merrier,” he quipped.

      

       In addition, Hooked checked out the website and was engaged in the various news it covered; which spanned from the goals of various newly elected club presidents to sports to campaigns. This is certainly useful as most students are only aware of the going-ons of CCA groups and societies directly affiliated with them, and are ignorant of the rest. Thus, with this newspaper, we are all duly informed.

    
       At the end of the day, Campus Observer has no illusions of grandeur but merely aims to add on to the array of views present in the bubbling NUS scene.

       Added Clement, “We cannot represent the entire student population, but we can reflect the many nuances of the NUS body”. HOOKED 

Image Copyright: stock exhange, campusobserver.org