University of Havana Warns Against Strikes and Reaffirms Loyalty to the Communist Party

The University of Havana (UH) has issued a formal statement asserting that it will not tolerate any disruptions to its academic processes, a clear reference to the academic strike initiated by students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. The university also reiterated its unwavering support for the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC). "Nothing and no one will interrupt our academic processes with calls that are completely detached from the spirit of engagement that has characterized our interactions with student and youth organizations. The University of Havana remains steadfast in its revolutionary essence and its mission to support the Communist Party of Cuba and the Government," the statement declared.

This institutional declaration comes amid a rising wave of student dissatisfaction over recent commercial policies imposed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA), which limits national top-ups to 360 CUP every 30 days. These restrictions have sparked widespread criticism among university students.

On the official Telegram channel of UH's Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, students announced an indefinite academic strike starting June 4. Their demands included the repeal or modification of ETECSA's measures, transparent dialogue with the state company's management, and the active inclusion of student technical expertise in finding viable solutions.

The organizers also urged university authorities to support the student body and encouraged faculty members to join the cause for the common good of Cuban society. These demands echo those previously voiced by students from the José Antonio Echeverría Technological University of Havana (CUJAE), who also vehemently opposed ETECSA's restrictions.

In a joint statement issued on June 3, the Federation of University Students (FEU) and the Young Communist League (UJC) of CUJAE criticized ETECSA's explanations as vague, demanding not only more inclusive technical alternatives but also a more respectful attitude from representatives of the state company.

In a partial response to the discontent, ETECSA announced on the state-run program Mesa Redonda that university students would be able to purchase an additional mobile data package of 6 GB for an extra 360 CUP, totaling 12 GB per month. Additionally, more than 40 educational sites were made accessible at no cost, as stated by the company's president, Tania Velázquez Rodríguez. However, the controversial restriction of 360 CUP per month for national top-ups remains in place, preserving the tariff structure criticized by students.

No changes have been announced to the general connectivity policy that has been in effect since May 30. Since then, university authorities, including those at UH, have engaged in discussions with students and staff to address the dissatisfaction and suggestions arising from the new regulations. According to UH's statement, these discussions have included participation from the Party, UJC, FEU, and the Union, as well as senior ETECSA officials.

The UH's official stance draws a clear line against any form of protest that disrupts academic order, prioritizing institutional stability over the demands of its student community. The tension between youthful demands and official rhetoric marks a new chapter of friction between Cuban universities and the regime.