Voluntary Sector: Taking Action ... University of York students vs University of York

Protesters: University of York students
Target: University of York
Location: University of York exhibition centre
Date: 1 December

The lowdown

As students across the country launched sit-in protests against the Government's higher education plans, University of York students began a 15-day sit-in. About 30 students gathered with food, sleeping bags and laptops, following similar protests at University College London. The students are holding meetings, workshops, teach-ins and speaker events to occupy their time, while trying to spread their message and get more people involved.

Why the protests?

Protesters Tara Jessop and Luke Capps told local newspaper The Yorker that they were 'calling on the university to support us in condemning the education reforms'. One of the demands being made is that the university issues a written statement 'in strong opposition to the conclusions and substance of the Browne report on higher education' and that it 'takes the lead in encouraging other universities and relevant institution to do the same'.

How has the university responded?

No response has been given, but the university is keeping the exhibition centre open during the daily 24-hour sit-in and, as PRWeek went to press, had not forcibly removed any students.

How did the media cover it?

The protest was covered in local newspapers The Yorker and The York Press.

Have you registered with us yet?

Register now to enjoy more articles and free email bulletins

Already registered?
Sign in