Poem for 17th November

We are OBESSU, the Organizing Bureau of European School Student Unions,
Our representatives come from many nations
We represent Europe’s students,
And make it known that their opinions, needs and progress are what counts,
That they are an integral part of society.
Yet recent events have caused students much anxiety.
We have all found ourselves in the midst of a recession
Is an endlessly repeated expression
Yet cuts into education
May devastate an entire generation
Which only seeks to learn
And does indeed for a better future yearn
We must now raise concern
Before we are past the point of no return
We must think ahead
Even when numbers are in the red
It is a general truth
That investment in students and youth
Pays in the long term
As they, our foundations, must be firm
They are the future of business, culture, politics and art
So we must upon them quality knowledge impart
So, all, hear our proclamation-
Do not neglect education
Respect students’ rights
And together we will reach new heights.

Written by Kaj Jež