Otago Signals its Support
MEDIA RELEASE For immediate release
Otago Signals its Support
The Education Action Group (EAG) is signaling its support to other student groups around the nation today in a small action for a barrier-free education.
"This action is our way to kick off the year, in which students around the country will be pushing with all their might for a barrier-free education." Said Katie Grace, spokesperson for the group.
The EAG hung a banner demanding free education with the 9 points that students from Auckland, Hamilton, Victoria and Christchurch have been protesting for across the last two weeks.
"Students are clearly informing the government and the nation, that the honeymoon is over. We want the government to make changes to the scheme and make them now." said Ms Grace.
"Nothing more than a complete overhaul of the system will be accepted by students. We voted Labour, Alliance and the Greens in for change, not just minor tinkering."
"While we are happy with progress so far, it is still, a long way to go before this country provides an education system that does not discriminate against disadvantaged students." concluded Ms Grace.
For further information: Katie Grace Hm: 03 477 0000 Wk: 03 479 5332 Cell: 021 297 8276
The demands of Fightback, in conjunction with other student groups across the country, are:
Free education for all, Universal student allowances, Reinstatement of the Emergency Unemployment Benefit, Democratic control of universities including student representation at managerial level, dumping of student debt, An end to privatisation, managerialism and competition in education, Adequate government funding to tertiary providers, Adequate research funding not controlled by corporate interest , removal of all non-financial barriers to education, No cops on campus, No more staff cuts
ENDS