University community members and the general public are invited to quiz candidates for Scottish Parliament in a student-organised event at the University of Aberdeen.
The Gaudie Student Newspaper, in collaboration with the Politics & International Relations Society, is hosting the Aberdeen Holyrood Hustings 2026, bringing the political buzz to the King’s Conference Centre on March 20th at 6pm.
Amid job losses, business closures, a difficult energy transition and an education sector in a funding crisis, the Granite City finds itself at a crossroads.
“This election is huge. With education being a matter devolved to the Scottish Parliament and Aberdeen in financial turmoil, this election decides the future of this university and city,” says Innes Paton, hustings organiser and News Editor at The Gaudie.
“The hustings is about making politics accessible, as often it seems so distant from students and local communities” adds Emily Reid, International Editor, who will help chair the hustings.
“In a time of increasing struggles for students, these hustings are a rare opportunity for us to raise our priorities and hear about public policy directly from those who may be in a position to affect change,” shares Ben Robinson, Vice-President of the Politics & IR Society.
The debate presents an opportunity for university students and staff, and local residents to meet their candidates and question them on matters close to their hearts.
Candidates representing the Scottish National Party, Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party, Reform UK, Scottish Liberal Democrats, Scottish Labour, and Scottish Greens have been invited.
To avoid disappointment, book free tickets in advance via Eventbrite. www.eventbrite.com/e/aberdeen-holyrood-hustings-2026-scottish-parliament-candidate-debate-tickets-1984129372364