Student Councils Come Together in Hafnarfjörður

Student Councils Met at Haukar Sports Hall

Dozens of young people from all elementary schools in Hafnarfjörður gathered yesterday in the Haukar celebration hall at Ásvellir. They came together to gain knowledge and practical tools for peer education and their work within the student councils of their schools.

“It matters that our young people have a voice in our community. This is fundamental now that we are a child-friendly municipality – and really, we always have been. We’ve always supported the student councils, which exist in every school. They are each school’s own advocacy group and connect to the municipal youth council,” says Stella B. Kristinsdóttir, specialist in prevention and youth work for the town.

“Today is about teaching them different tools, empowering them, and encouraging them to do good work while they serve on the councils,” she continues. “The day is also fun – they build connections across schools.”

The student councils also collaborate on various projects throughout the year. “They work together when we organize the elementary school festival, pair up for social events, and plan joint activities,” Stella explains.

The young participants worked in teams, discussing violence in their environment and what they could do to prevent it. They also explored what might stop someone from stepping in if they witnessed violence. The goal was to hear their ideas on how to address the issue. They were even asked to put themselves in the shoes of school leaders.

Faris, Hrafnhildur, Helgi, Fjóla, and Móa were among the participants. Faris, from Hvaleyrarskóli, is in his first year on the student council. “I wanted to try something new,” he said. “I’m here for the experience, and I like the day so far.”

Fjóla and Móa, both in 10th grade at Öldutúnsskóli, said: “It’s an inspiring and fun day,” according to Fjóla, who has been on the council for two years, while this is Móa’s first year. But does it matter? “Yes,” they both answered in unison. “The work is important,” added Fjóla, “and the 8th graders really benefit from their first day like this.”

Hrafnhildur, in 8th grade at Hraunvallaskóli, said she liked what she heard about the role. “Yes, I wanted to take part and thought it would be fun, and it is fun. I like what we talk about; it makes everything clearer.”

Helgi, a 10th grader at Lækjarskóli, said his interest in community affairs led him to join the student council. “I’ve been in the council for three years and attended a day like this before. It really works , you learn how to be a good representative, and I recommend it.”