This Just 'Costed' Students More Than Copper

A new video from the Kwantlen Student Association (KSA) features president Ishant Goyal (Goel) promoting free copper water bottles for KPU students, “while supplies last.” In the video, Goyal claims these bottles “help boost your metabolism,” “increase good digestion,” and offer “many more benefits”.

The problem? Most of these health claims are scientifically shaky at best.

While copper does have antimicrobial properties and is an essential trace mineral, the idea that sipping water from a copper vessel can dramatically improve digestion or metabolism is more wellness folklore than fact. There’s limited evidence suggesting any significant physiological benefit from drinking copper-infused water, especially in the small doses leached from these bottles. Overuse, in fact, can even be harmful.

Then there’s the curious packaging: these bottles don’t appear to be KSA-branded. That raises fair questions:

What’s more ironic is the video opens with a complaint about the high cost of food and drink on campus—an issue that disproportionately affects students already burdened by fees. Yet it comes from a president who has routinely voted in favour of increased pay for himself and fellow board members, funded directly on the backs of students via student fees.

So while free copper bottles may seem like a generous gesture, we might be better served with transparency, scientific integrity, and financial priorities that reflect our actual needs.

Sometimes what looks like a gift deserves a closer look.

A Concerned KPU Student

Your words do carry weight. When used with intent, they can shift policies, spark dialogue, and protect what matters. 📩 Email KSA and KPU today.