Students at Stoke on Trent College had the chance to quiz two of the prospective candidates for the seat of Stoke-on-Trent Central at the General Election which has now been called for July 4.
They attended a hustings event hosted by the College at its Cauldon campus.
Dr Chandra Kanneganti (Conservative) and Gareth Snell (Labour) participated in a candid Q&A discussion.
Learners were joined by representatives from the student council to submit questions.
Chair of the event, designed to promote democratic engagement and awareness, was Dave Hopley, Assistant Principal Student Experience.
Each prospective candidate delivered a brief introduction, outlining their party’s plans and offering insights on the pressing issues affecting the Stoke-on-Trent community.
These introductory segments allowed attendees to gain valuable insights into the candidates’ views and priorities.
Learners had worked together to produce a series of questions and the prospective candidates were then quizzed on various topics including anti-social behaviour and crime, education, health care and the cost-of-living crisis.
Lisa Capper MBE, CEO and Principal at Stoke on Trent College, said: “With the forthcoming General Election, we are working hard to ensure our learners are fully aware of the options available to them so they can better understand the importance of voting.”
Gareth Snell said: “It’s great to be at the College supporting the hustings, getting young people actively involved in our democratic process. This is only a good thing for the future of our country, that we are held to account and questioned about what we want to do for the country and the city.”
Dr Chandra Kanneganti CBE said: “I’d like to thank Stoke on Trent College for inviting me for this hustings. It’s very important for teenagers, particularly age groups 16-18, to understand our democratic process and what our future leaders want to do for Stoke-on-Trent.”
