Introduction:

This article reports on the experiences of student representation at the medical school of a Brazilian federal university, including organizing events, participating in decisions at higher levels and interrupting teaching during a pandemic.

Experience Report:

Initially, the students’ movement was mobilized to regulate remote activities. Then other university institutions took action to regulate Emergency Remote Academic Activities. Finally, an event was held to inform students about plans for the implementation of these activities and to discuss medical education issues in this context.

Discussion:

The importance of the integration of student representation institutions with higher bodies is remarkable and occurs due to the students' proactivity and the consensus with teaching staff and administrative technicians. It was necessary to consider the socio-economic context of those involved and manage their interests. Therefore dealing with conflicts and proposing comprehensive solutions was fundamental in order to guarantee viable conditions for the democratic application of Emergency Remote Academic Activities, promoting digital inclusion for teachers and creating means of student assistance. Hence, it became clear that academics were playing a pivotal role in conflict resolution through active participation in councils and holding informative and consultative events for the rest of the community, which also promoted research, community outreach projects and activities to improve mental health in the current setting.

Conclusion:

It can be seen that academic participation in university deliberations enabled more democratic decisions that considered the impacts of the pandemic on the lives of students and its future consequences on medical training. It furthermore sparked community interest in academic management activities.

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