Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies

Student Government Organisations (SGOs) provide platforms for student representation, participation in institutional governance, and advocacy for welfare services. This study examined how they address student welfare concerns at four higher education institutions in Mbeya City, Tanzania. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, the study collected data from 104 participants: 80 students, 20 SGO leaders, and four faculty deans. Students were randomly selected, whereas SGO leaders and deans were selected purposively. Data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative data were examined using content analysis. Findings indicate that SGOs addressed welfare concerns through representation, communication with management, student support, and the facilitation of health, accommodation, counselling, sports and security services. Students reported moderate involvement in institutional decision-making. Key welfare concerns included accommodation, food costs, financial support, healthcare, and learning facilities. Limited funding and restricted decision-making authority were the leading challenges facing SGOs, each reported by 28.7% of respondents. The study concludes that SGOs play an important advocacy role, but their effectiveness depends partly on institutional support, adequate resources, and meaningful participation in decision-making. It recommends stronger institutional collaboration, improved funding and communication, and greater student representation in welfare-related decisions.