Related videos:
Students from the Central University “Marta Abreu” of Las Villas (UCLV) announced this Wednesday that they are joining the academic strike initiated by other Cuban universities, in protest against the restrictions imposed by the Telecommunications Company of Cuba (ETECSA), which they describe as discriminatory and exclusionary.
In a statement released on June 4, students from UCLV called for a mass absence from the educational process until an affordable social tariff is approved for the entire population and current benefits are extended to researchers, educators, and professionals who rely on internet access for their work.
Although they acknowledge that university authorities addressed their concerns and that ETECSA implemented measures specifically aimed at students, they argue that these solutions reinforce a structural injustice by excluding other equally vulnerable sectors.
The statement rejects any attempt to politicize the discontent of students and emphasizes that the mobilization solely reflects a commitment to social justice and the right to information.
For its part, the rectory of the Universidad Central "Marta Abreu" shared a message on its social media showcasing an apparent normalcy in its educational activities.
"Today is Wednesday, and the hustle and bustle of student life marks the week at UCLV. Students are preparing for their exams, working on impactful assignments, and conducting research through scientific projects. Behind every challenge, there is a great reward," they expressed.
Despite the images on Facebook, the statement released by students of UCLV confirms their participation in the academic strike that was called starting June 4. The call was initiated by students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Havana, who on Tuesday demanded the revocation of the restrictions on national top-ups and a transparent dialogue with ETECSA.
This Wednesday, the University of Havana (UH) issued a statement in which it asserted that it will not allow interruptions in its teaching processes and reaffirmed its unconditional support for the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC).
Previously, the Technological University of Havana “José Antonio Echeverría” (CUJAE) had also joined the call for changes in ETECSA's measures. The FEU and the UJC committee issued a joint statement in which they described the explanations provided by the state-owned company as "vague" and demanded inclusive solutions.
ETECSA had announced that students will be able to purchase a second package of 6 GB for 360 CUP, in addition to granting access to more than 40 educational sites. However, the measure still retains the controversial limitation on national recharges, which is the main reason for the growing student discontent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Student Protests and ETECSA's Measures in Cuba
Why are the students at the University of Las Villas protesting against ETECSA?
Students are protesting due to the restrictions imposed by ETECSA, which they consider discriminatory and exclusionary, and they are demanding an affordable social rate for the entire population and an extension of the current benefits to researchers, educators, and professionals who rely on internet access for their work.
What measures has ETECSA taken to address student discontent?
ETECSA has announced that students will be able to purchase a second package of 6 GB for 360 CUP, in addition to providing access to over 40 educational sites. However, these measures do not eliminate the controversial limitation on national top-ups, which is the main reason for student discontent.
How has the University of Havana reacted to the student protests?
The University of Havana issued a statement confirming that it will not allow interruptions in its educational processes and reaffirmed its support for the Communist Party of Cuba. This announcement comes amid a rising wave of student discontent regarding the measures taken by ETECSA.
What specific demands are students making to the government and ETECSA?
The students demand the repeal of the measures imposed by ETECSA and a transparent dialogue with the company's management. They also propose the active inclusion of student technical knowledge in the pursuit of viable and fair solutions.
Filed under: