UOSU replaced SFUO to improve financial oversight, modernize student services, and update governance at uOttawa. While core services like the U-Pass remain, UOSU introduced new digital tools, safety programs, and expanded student support between 2024 and 2026.
Editorial note: This article reflects publicly available information and reporting on UOSU and uOttawa student services through late 2025. Services, fees, digital tools, and governance practices may change by academic year.
Student Unions and Responsible Gambling: Creating Awareness on Campus
As SFUO built a foundation for student support, it also laid the groundwork for services that address modern student needs, including responsible gambling awareness. With online casinos and gambling apps now widely accessible in Ontario, student unions like UOSU play a crucial role in promoting safe gambling practices on campus.
Through resources and educational initiatives, UOSU empowers students to make informed decisions regarding online gaming and betting. For those looking to participate responsibly, this shortlist of trusted picks for the best Ontario online casinos can serve as a guide to safe and reliable online platforms.
Online casinos have surged in popularity among students, offering a diverse range of activities – from poker to slots – that attract both new and seasoned players. However, it’s essential for students to recognize platforms that prioritize fairness and user safety, especially as these sites evolve with new protections and regulations aimed at responsible gaming. In the next section, we’ll explore how UOSU continues SFUO’s legacy by expanding services that support the evolving needs of the campus community.
The SFUO Years: Setting the Foundation
SFUO wasn’t just another campus organization – it ran a lot for uOttawa undergrads for almost 50 years. SFUO created many services students still use today and aimed to ensure every student had a voice, regardless of background or needs. The structure was straightforward – with an Executive Committee for daily decisions and a Board of Administration overseeing activities. This model worked well… until it didn’t.
Student Support Services Then and Now
Here’s where things get interesting. SFUO actually built some essential services that we might take for granted today. Under UOSU, these services continue, with notable improvements:
Food Bank Support
In 2024–2025, UOSU also partnered with uOttawa and health-research institutions on the Healthy Plates project, a campus-wide study examining student food insecurity and access to support. What started as basic assistance now includes a confidential support system that serves thousands of students annually.
Peer Help Evolution
What began as a simple tutoring service has become a comprehensive Peer Help Centre. UOSU enhanced it with online access, academic support, and mental health resources. The original “students helping students” mission remains, but now, with professional oversight and more services.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Bike Co-op and Sustainability Centre started as SFUO’s efforts for a greener campus. UOSU has turned them into dynamic services:
- Bike Co-op: now with expanded repair facilities at Lees Campus.
- Sustainability Centre: leads campus-wide green initiatives, promoting sustainable lifestyle choices.
Core Services That Kept Improving
U-Pass: Getting Around Ottawa-Gatineau
The U-Pass has been evolving since the SFUO days. Now integrated directly into your student card, it provides unlimited access to OC Transpo and STO transit systems. Full-time students automatically get coverage during fall and winter terms. The new tap-and-go feature works with the O-Train, and you can manage it all through the uOttawa app. For co-op students, there’s a special opt-in process.
Health and Dental Coverage
Health coverage for uOttawa students operates within Canada’s two-tier system. Basic medical care is covered through provincial insurance (or UHIP for international students), while supplementary plans, such as Studentcare/GreenShield for undergraduates, cover items like prescriptions, dental services, and vision care. Coverage details and reimbursement levels vary by academic year and provider.
Campus Safety Services
Foot Patrol is still around but modernized. They offer their core safe-walk service (8 PM – 2 AM daily) with added features:
- Real-time tracking through the campus safety app.
- Extended hours during exams.
- Text response for quicker coordination.
Coverage for popular off-campus areas frequented by students.
Student Rights Support
The Student Rights Centre has seen a complete overhaul with an online portal allowing students to:
- Submit appeals and track cases.
- Access template letters.
- Book consultations virtually.
The launch of the Student Rights Centre portal in late 2024 significantly improved access, transparency, and case tracking for students navigating academic or administrative issues.
If you’re dealing with any academic or campus life issues, start with these core services – they’re included in your fees and are designed for uOttawa students. Check your uoZone account for service updates and new features each term.
Making Student Voices Count
SFUO put a strong focus on student rights and advocacy. Their Student Rights Centre helped students with grade appeals and academic issues. They also supported diversity and inclusion, with the Centre for Students with Disabilities, Pride Centre, and Women’s Resource Centre serving as communities for support and understanding.
The Bilingualism Centre deserves special mention. At a bilingual university, they ensured both English and French speakers had equal access to resources, tutoring, and cultural events.
Campus Life and Student Activities
SFUO supported vibrant campus life, with hundreds of clubs covering everything from academic societies to cultural and recreational groups. These weren’t just social clubs; they were where students found their communities.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, UOSU introduced new digital tools to centralize club discovery, event promotion, and student engagement, reflecting a broader shift toward platform-based coordination of campus life.
uOttawa Clubs: Categories and How to Join
| Category | Description | Example Clubs | How to Join |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic & Professional | Focused on fields of study | – Chemical Engineering Society, Bioethics Society | Via faculty/department |
| Cultural & Identity | Celebrates diversity and heritage | – Afghan Student Association, Caribbean Association | Open membership |
| Arts & Media | Creative/performance groups | – Anime Club, Game Development Club | Portfolio sometimes required |
| Sports & Recreation | Physical activities and games | – Lifesaving Club, Chess Club | Try-outs for some teams |
| Philanthropic & Humanitarian | Community service focused | – Heart of the City Piano, UNICEF uOttawa | Open membership |
| Advocacy & Social Justice | Rights and awareness groups | – Animal Rights Association, Mental Health Awareness | Open membership |
Federated Bodies (RSGs)
| Faculty | Student Association | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| Arts | Students’ Association of Faculty of Arts | Art exhibitions, cultural weeks |
| Engineering | Engineering Students’ Society | Design competitions, career fairs |
| Science | Science Students’ Association | Research symposiums, lab tours |
| Social Sciences | Various department associations | Policy forums, networking events |
Getting Involved
- Club Registration: Through UOSU clubs portal.
- Meeting Spaces: Available in the University Centre.
- Funding: Available per semester based on activity.
- Event Planning: Support through UOSU Services.
- Contact: [email protected]
This structured organization makes it easier for students to join and find groups matching their interests.
SFUO-Run Businesses and On-Campus Resources
The transition kept the best campus services running more efficiently. Here’s what you need to know:
PIVIK: Your Daily Stop
Located in UCU 034, PIVIK offers snacks, fresh sandwiches, and local products at student-friendly prices. The new mobile ordering app makes grabbing items between classes easier. Pro tip: the early morning coffee deals beat chain cafes.
Café Alt: Student-Run Coffee House
In Simard’s basement, Café Alt provides fair-trade coffee and has added vegan and gluten-free options. Clubs often book the space for events, and their catering service is ideal for student meetings.
1848: The Campus Social Hub
1848 balances being a hangout and evening venue. They offer student-friendly prices and events like trivia and karaoke. It’s also available for club bookings, and new lunch specials were added based on student feedback.
The Big Change: Why SFUO Became UOSU
In 2018, financial issues emerged, and the university intervened. Instead of fixing problems, the whole system was revamped. Students voted for change, and UOSU was established to operate more effectively.
UOSU Today: The New Approach
UOSU retained SFUO’s key services but improved management and structure. New commissioner roles focus on equity, advocacy, and student life, with professional managers handling daily operations.
Recent initiatives, including free printing for undergraduates, free professional headshots, expanded scholarships, and a $150,000 Emergency Hardship Fund, reflect a focus on practical, day-to-day student needs.
UOSU faces challenges like low voter turnout and filling leadership roles, but they’re tackling relevant issues – student housing, transit access, and maintaining services despite budget limits. They balance services with financial responsibility and bilingual support and address the housing crisis.
Why This Matters to You
UOSU’s work directly impacts your student experience – from transit options to academic support. The Emergency Hardship Fund and new job-hunting headshots reflect their commitment to practical student needs.
Making the Most of Your Union
Get involved. UOSU aims to serve students better. Whether you need academic help, want to join a club, or know your rights, they’re here. The more students participate, the stronger the union becomes, which benefits everyone at uOttawa.
Need more information? Visit UCU 07-85 during business hours, or check out their website for updates and services. Your student experience might just get better because you did.