The University of Auckland Public Policy Club (PPC) is hosting their first Op-Ed Competition.
Any member of the PPC can enter the competition by adhering to the following brief. Contestants will write a 750-800 (+/- 10%) opinion column on any public policy they care for. A compelling argument is necessary, withh sources, statistics, and solid evidence to back up their opinion.
Policy opinion allows students to discuss their views on important policy matters, whilst also gaining research skills related to their chosen topic. A strong stance on a particular area of public policy is key to gaining in-depth knowledge to help them create an argument that can hold its own.
1 News Political Editor, Jessica Mutch McKay, will be reading and guest judging entries to the competition. Monetary prizes are first place, $125; second place, $75; and third place, $50. The PPC wants to recognise the hard work of contestants, so Craccum will be publishing the first place winner. Participants will be judged on which argument is most compelling, not the topic itself.
There hasn’t been another competition run by PPC quite like this, and allows for a high level of freedom as the student writer gets to decide on their chosen policy. The most recent PPC competition prior to this one was a policy brief competition on the topic of housing.
The Public Policy Club describe themselves as “a non-partisan club with two aims: Access to Policy and Member Development”. There are currently 140 members that participate in events and initiatives that are organised by the 19-memeber executive committee.
To join PPC and enter the Op-Ed contest, go to their Facebook page to sign up.
