Amidst student protests against increased mobile internet fees imposed by ETECSA, the University of Havana (UH) has refuted claims of an ongoing academic strike within its campus. On Thursday, through an official post on social media, the university insisted that academic activities are proceeding as usual: “Another day at UH… Classrooms are active, laboratories are functioning, libraries are open, and professors are giving their best in every class. This university beats with you, for you, and thanks to you.”
This statement comes after several branches of the University Student Federation (FEU) in faculties such as Mathematics and Computing, Philosophy and History, and Arts and Letters, called for a strike in protest against the new mobile data service conditions.
Although some students have reported partial absences in certain faculties, university officials continue to deny the existence of a widespread shutdown. “Between classes and projects, we continue to bet on knowledge, commitment, and dreams,” UH concluded in its message, carefully avoiding any direct mention of the protest.
The university administration claims to aim at maintaining the academic year's stability, but their statement also highlights their indifference to the students’ plight, as tensions persist between the student body and the state-owned telecommunications company. In recent days, UH leadership had already warned against allowing any “disruptions” to normal activities and expressed loyalty to the Communist Party of Cuba.
Meanwhile, debate over the ETECSA "tariff hike" is intensifying both on and off-campus, reaching other institutions like the University of Villa Clara. Several faculties, including Biology, have shown support for the students and distanced themselves from official organizations like the FEU, emphasizing their respect for “the people's sentiment.”
Frequently Asked Questions about the University of Havana Protest
What prompted the student protests at the University of Havana?
The protests were triggered by the rise in mobile internet fees imposed by ETECSA, impacting students’ ability to afford necessary data services.
How has the University of Havana responded to the student strike?
The University of Havana has denied any ongoing strike, stating that academic activities are continuing as normal while avoiding direct acknowledgment of the protests.
Which faculties have shown support for the protesting students?
Faculties such as Biology have expressed support for the students and have distanced themselves from official organizations like the FEU.