Students from the Central University “Marta Abreu” of Las Villas (UCLV) announced on Wednesday their decision to join the academic strike initiated by other Cuban universities. This protest is in response to restrictions imposed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA), which they describe as discriminatory and exclusionary.
In a statement released on June 4, UCLV students called for a mass absence from academic activities until an affordable social tariff is approved for the entire population and existing benefits are extended to researchers, educators, and professionals who rely on internet access for their work.
While acknowledging that university authorities have addressed their concerns and that ETECSA has implemented measures specifically aimed at students, they argue these solutions only perpetuate structural injustice by excluding other equally vulnerable sectors.
The declaration firmly rejects any political manipulation of the students' dissatisfaction, emphasizing that their mobilization is solely committed to social justice and the right to information.
Meanwhile, the rectorate of the Central University "Marta Abreu" shared a message on social media suggesting normalcy in their academic activities. "Today is Wednesday, and the student hustle marks the week at UCLV. Students are preparing for exams, engaging in impactful tasks, and conducting research through scientific projects. Behind every challenge lies a great reward," they stated.
Despite these Facebook images, the statement from UCLV students confirms their participation in the academic strike initiated on June 4. Students from the Faculty of Mathematics and Computing at the University of Havana launched the call for action on Tuesday, demanding the reversal of national recharge restrictions and a transparent dialogue with ETECSA.
On Wednesday, the University of Havana (UH) issued a statement asserting that it will not allow disruptions to its academic processes, reaffirming its unwavering support for the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC).
Previously, the Havana University of Technology “José Antonio Echeverría” (CUJAE) also joined the call for changes in ETECSA's policies. The Federation of University Students (FEU) and the Union of Young Communists (UJC) committee released a joint statement describing the explanations provided by the state company as "vague" and demanding inclusive solutions.
ETECSA had announced that students could purchase a second 6 GB package for 360 CUP and would have free access to more than 40 educational websites. However, the controversial limitation on national recharges, a central issue of the growing student discontent, remains unchanged.
Key Questions About the Academic Strike and ETECSA's Measures
What prompted the academic strike at Las Villas University?
The strike was initiated in protest against the restrictions imposed by ETECSA, which students consider discriminatory and exclusionary.
What are the students demanding from ETECSA?
Students are demanding an affordable social tariff accessible to the entire population and the extension of benefits to researchers, educators, and professionals who depend on internet access.
How has the University of Havana responded to the strike?
The University of Havana has declared that it will not permit interruptions in its academic processes and has reiterated its support for the Communist Party of Cuba.