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The Council of the University Student Federation (FEU) of the University of Holguín urged to "think of solutions" amidst the growing discontent among students regarding the trade measures imposed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA).
In a statement released this Saturday on their social media, the Holguin FEU expressed its openness "to dialogue and joint decision-making," and spoke out against what they consider a "distortion" and "incitement to hatred", referring to the statements from students and professors who have openly criticized the stance of university officials, which align with the regime.
The text, in its attempt to undermine the legitimacy of public protests by students and educators, denounced a "destabilization of the teaching-educational process" and expressed the opinion that they, the leaders of the FEU, are responsible for conveying opinions to "the legitimate structures that have been created."
At the same time, he urged to "think of actions that can help resolve this situation, not only for the students but for the people."
His statement emerged on the same day as another one signed by professors from the Law program at the University of Holguín, in which they expressed their dissatisfaction with the new rates imposed by the Cuban Telecommunications Company (ETECSA).
The teachers' text rejects the price hike and condemns the responses given by the executives to the young university students. It also demands the suspension of the measures implemented by ETECSA, stating that the decision is not exclusive to this company.
In the same vein as the announcement made this Saturday by the University of Holguín, the FEU Council of the University of Camagüey urged the students it represents to remain calm and proposed that they seek solutions regarding the price hike.
The leaders of the FEU assured the students that “as their democratically elected representatives, we are conveying opinions and grievances at all levels” and emphasized that “every student is represented at every level.”
Below, we reproduce the statement from the FEU:
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE UNIVERSITY STUDENT FEDERATION COUNCIL OF HOLGUÍN UNIVERSITY
Considering the measures taken by the Telecommunications Company of Cuba S.A. (ETECSA) on May 30, 2025, the Council of the University Student Federation of the University of Holguín, after having conducted three meetings with the highest authorities of the company in the territory and among the students of our institution of higher education, has decided to voice its support for the duties and rights of the university community.
In these spaces, the multiple issues related to the implementation of the measures and the ambiguity in their communication processes, response, and correction of errors have been recognized. We reiterate and reinforce our commitment to open dialogue and joint decision-making, considering our dedication to addressing opinions and promoting their transmission to the legitimate structures that have been established.
We will not tolerate the distortion of these spaces and the incitement to hatred and the destabilization of the teaching-educational process.
We invite you to think about actions that can help resolve this situation, not only for the students but also for the community.
HOLGUÍN, JUNE 7, 2025
COUNCIL OF THE FEU OF THE UNIVERSITY OF HOLGUÍN
Frequently Asked Questions about the Student Protest in Cuba Against ETECSA Fees
Why are the students of the University of Holguín protesting against ETECSA?
Students are protesting against the new fees imposed by ETECSA, which they consider abusive and discriminatory. These fees restrict access to essential internet services for their academic and professional development, and increase inequality by making connectivity a luxury rather than a right.
How has the University Student Federation (FEU) responded to the criticisms regarding its stance?
The FEU has sought to delegitimize student protests by accusing "enemies of the Revolution" of manipulating university discontent. Although it initially expressed opposition to the tariff hike, the FEU has taken a stance aligned with the regime, leading to criticism regarding its autonomy and true representativeness.
What measures have university students in Cuba demanded regarding ETECSA's fees?
Students demand the repeal of ETECSA's new tariffs and seek solutions that include more equitable access to the internet. They have requested the establishment of a multidisciplinary commission to review connectivity policies and have rejected any attempts to criminalize their protests.
What has been the reaction of university professors to ETECSA's measures?
Several professors have supported the student protests and have expressed their dissatisfaction with ETECSA's rates. They have criticized the lack of citizen consultation and emphasized that these measures deepen inequality and negatively impact the academic and social life of the country.
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