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The University Students Federation (FEU) announced that it will present a "detailed report" of its meetings with the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA), in a clear attempt to calm tensions among students following the widespread rejection of the internet tariff increase in the country.
However, the statement issued so far by the organization consists of nothing more than a collection of empty phrases, lacking concrete measures or verifiable results.
"The work of the Multidisciplinary Group of the FEU of Cuba at ETECSA does not stop," asserts the text released by official media, which lists supposed analyses and proposals made by subgroups in operations, communication, and the commercial area.
Among the points discussed are issues as generic as the "complexity of mobile network operation" or the "evaluation of concepts from the interim plan," without any real solutions or verifiable commitments being offered by the state-owned company.
The measure is part of a containment strategy designed by the authorities following the wave of criticism generated by the recent "tarifazo" in mobile data packages.
Last week, the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science (MATCOM) at the University of Havana lifted the teachers' strike that began on June 4, after receiving concrete commitments from the Ministry of Higher Education and the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA).
Subsequently, a "Multidisciplinary Group" was formed at the Technological University of Havana (CUJAE) consisting of 30 students from various universities across the country, with the mission of proposing ideas and channeling concerns within ETECSA.
The official press covering the event presented the initiative as a demonstration of the students' "revolutionary commitment" and the company's purported willingness to engage in dialogue.
However, from the very announcement, it became clear that ETECSA has no intention of modifying its pricing policy, justifying the high costs with its "economic model."
In that context, the working group promoted by the FEU seems more like a distraction mechanism than an effective tool for student representation. Meanwhile, most university students continue to face serious difficulties accessing the internet in a country where connectivity remains a luxury rather than a right.
The report promised by the FEU, which will be discussed in university councils, arrives with the bitter taste of impotence: many words, few actions, and zero solutions so far.
Frequently Asked Questions about the conflict between the FEU and ETECSA in Cuba
What is the main reason for the conflict between the students and ETECSA?
The conflict arises from the increase in internet tariffs imposed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA), which limits access to the internet in a country where connectivity is considered a luxury. This measure has provoked widespread discontent among university students, who believe that the "tarifazo" affects their right to information and education.
What actions have students taken in response to ETECSA's fees?
Students have organized academic strikes in protest against ETECSA's measures. Departments such as Mathematics and Computer Science at the University of Havana have maintained an indefinite faculty strike, demanding the revocation of the measures and a transparent dialogue with the authorities. Students are calling for solutions that meet the needs of the Cuban people, and have received support from various departments and professors.
How has the FEU responded to the criticisms regarding its management of this conflict?
The University Student Federation (FEU) has faced criticism for its alignment with the regime and its lack of effective action. It is accused of acting as a political arm of the Communist Party, and of not truly representing the interests of the students. In response to the criticism, the FEU has attempted to maintain a dialogue stance, but many students believe that its actions are insufficient and symbolic.
What role does the Cuban government play in the situation with ETECSA?
The Cuban government has justified the increase in ETECSA rates as an economic necessity, while students see it as an additional punishment. The government's unwillingness to reverse the rates reinforces the perception that initiatives like those of the multidisciplinary group of the FEU are more a distraction attempt than a real solution.
What is ETECSA's stance on the student protests?
ETECSA has maintained its decision not to change the rates, justifying them based on its economic model. The company has shut any door to significant revisions, merely justifying the increases due to operational costs and the alleged need for "sustainability." ETECSA's responses have not been sufficient to calm student discontent.
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