Coimbatore’s Masakkalipalayam School Holds First-ever Student Elections With EVMs

Coimbatore Masakkalipalayam Municipal Corporation Middle School, known for competing with private schools in education and infrastructure, recently held democratic elections to elect its Student President and Vice-President. The election, which has garnered widespread attention, involved students from classes 5 to 8.

The school followed official election procedures, with candidates filing nominations and campaigning. A polling station was set up, and the election was conducted using an electronic voting machine (EVM), making the experience more authentic. Before the election, students were educated about the election process, and those acting as polling agents received special training. This initiative aimed to teach students about democratic duties in a real-world context.

The results were announced the day after the election. Hudson Alexander, an eighth-grade student, won the election for Student President, receiving the most votes. A student from grade 7, Gayatri, was elected Vice-President.

Hudson expressed his happiness after winning the election, saying, “I campaigned hard, and now I have won. I am thrilled. My symbol was the stethoscope, and I will work hard to help this school. After I graduate and become a doctor, I will continue to support the school.”

He also added that he was committed to maintaining discipline and ensuring that the school remains peaceful and hygienic under his leadership.

Gayatri, the newly elected Vice-President, shared her excitement about the election, noting that she enjoyed the campaign process. “My symbol was a ship, and I was thrilled to campaign. We voted by machine, and I was elected as the assistant census taker. I will focus on keeping the school clean and helping all classes succeed in our school exhibitions.”

Sarob, a student who worked as an election officer, spoke about his positive experience managing the voting process, guiding younger students, and ensuring that the election ran smoothly. This election gave the students valuable hands-on experience with democratic practices and responsibilities.