Definition of student union

The term "student union" originated in the United Kingdom in the late 19th century. Initially, student organizations were known as "union societies" or "literary and scientific societies," which aimed to promote the interests of students and provide a social platform. The term "union" referred to the unionization of students, bringing them together under a common umbrella. The Oxford University Student Union (OUSU) is often credited with popularizing the term "student union" in the early 20th century. The concept soon spread to other British universities, and by the mid-20th century, the term had become standard in the UK. In the United States, student governments were more common, and the term "student union" did not gain widespread adoption until the latter half of the 20th century, when US universities began to adopt the British model. Today, the term "student union" is widely used in both countries, referring to student-led organizations that promote student interests, provide services, and foster campus life.