"What if a parent could share their data with two children?" This was one of the most striking and unusual proposals made on Wednesday during a meeting between university students and representatives from ETECSA in Havana. This meeting was part of a newly formed national working group aimed at addressing the harsh measures imposed by the state-run telecommunications company.
The suggestion, put forward by Luis Yoel González, a student leader from the Federation of University Students (FEU), highlights a stark reality faced by thousands of Cuban families: the inability to afford multiple data packages so each household member, especially the youth, can study, work, or simply communicate. "We have parents with two children and one of the proposals is to allow them to access a shared data package that enables them to distribute the connection to both," explained the representative.
Alain Álvarez, president of the FEU at the University of Informatics Sciences (UCI), an institution known for training many members of the so-called "cyber army" prevalent on social media, also suggested that service pricing could be based on connection speed rather than data volume, as is done in other countries.
The Technological University of Havana (CUJAE) is hosting the multidisciplinary group working until Friday to develop concrete proposals in response to growing student discontent over internet access restrictions and ETECSA's high service costs. "This debate is far from over," cautioned one spokesperson. "There are still unresolved issues, opinions to clarify, and legitimate demands on the table."
In addition to the "data package for parents with children," discussions included the proposal to expand Wi-Fi zones. This could alleviate technological infrastructure issues and provide a more stable alternative to mobile access, albeit with significant initial investments and a return to scenarios previously experienced by Cubans.
The creation of the "Multidisciplinary Group," consisting of about 30 students from various universities across the country, was presented as opening a dialogue with the youth. The official stance spoke of "channeling concerns" and "working alongside ETECSA," yet the controlled and politicized nature of the group was evident, undermining the autonomous spirit that a truly critical space should embody.
ETECSA has already made it clear that there will be no changes in their rates. The increased tariffs remain in effect, with prices staying "aligned with their economic model," as reiterated by state company spokespersons. Therefore, the likelihood of these proposals becoming actual policies seems limited.
This is not the first time the regime has resorted to creating commissions or "working groups" to contain social unrest without altering predetermined decisions. Since the tariff hike was announced, the FEU has played an ambivalent role, publicly supporting government measures while promoting spaces that seemingly aim to listen to the student body.
At Central University "Marta Abreu" of Las Villas, for instance, the FEU responded to dissatisfaction by calling for "maintaining calm" on campus, clearly indicating that their role is to suppress protest rather than represent it.
Key Questions About ETECSA's Data Policies
What is the proposed data sharing plan for parents?
The proposal suggests allowing parents to share their internet data with their two children through a shared data package.
Why is there criticism of ETECSA's current data pricing?
Criticism stems from the high cost of data packages, which many families cannot afford, as well as the restrictive nature of the current pricing model based on data volume rather than connection speed.
What role does the FEU play in the discussions with ETECSA?
The FEU has been involved in dialogues with ETECSA, promoting spaces for student engagement, but also supporting government measures, showing an ambivalent stance.