Students at the University of Technology Jamaica (UTech, Ja.), took matters into their own hands this morning, when they journeyed to the Ministry Of Education, seeking a resolution amid ongoing protest and strike action by the academic staff at the institution.
Lectures have been off the job since last Friday expressing their disappointment with the government’s failure to pay outstanding fees. The educators are adamant they will not resume teaching until they are paid.
The Ministry of Finance has reportedly indicated that it is not in a position to make the payments, a announcement which has further angered the staff.
The students journeyed from their Papine-based campus to the Heroes Circle offices of the Ministry Of Education where they were met by Minister Samuda who engaged them in a discussion.
They also met with other education officials, however the end result of that meeting was met with disappointment, as a resolution was not made and they are still in limbo.
The students are however hopeful and say they await word from their union.
The Academic Union says the staff will ensure that students are fully prepared for the completion of their studies for the semester in the time allotted by the university.
They are encouraging students to use the unplanned break to complete projects and assignments.
