Protester arrested at JCU institute opening
STUDENTS have vowed to keep embarrassing James Cook University management at official functions unless their concerns about the uni’s proposed restructure are properly heard.
More than 100 students gatecrashed the official opening of JCU’s new Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine at Smithfield campus yesterday, demanding the resignation of vice chancellor Professor Sandra Harding.
Repeatedly chanting “hear Watch video of protests at yesterday’s JCU event: www.cairnspost.com.au our voices, no cuts” they refused to leave the area unless Prof Harding received their signed petition against plans to axe up to 15 Cairns staff and shut down several courses.
The students had initially planned a silent protest, how- ever that was short-lived after student Keith Saisell broke ranks and walked through the gathered crowd of dignitaries to yell at Prof Harding during her formal address.
He was led away by police officers, although no charges were laid against him.
The protesters continued to chant over the top of speakers, including Northern Australia Senator Matt Canavan and Townsville-based Liberal Senator Ian Macdonald, drowning out their speeches.
Protest organiser Raechel Oleszek gave no apologies for interrupting the opening.
“This is week 10 and we’re about to come into exams.” she said. “This is what we’re finding with JCU: they’re constantly giving us news when they think we’re too powerless to push back against that.
“But haven’t we shown them, that students have had enough and we need them to take us seriously or we’re going to continue to embarrass them.”
Prof Harding accepted the students’ petition, however, declined to comment on their protest.
JCU senior deputy chancellor Professor vice Chris Cocklin said the students had a right to express their views, but said he was disappointed they had interrupted the official proceedings.
“They didn’t have the patience or courtesy to respect that there are some visitors to North Queensland and I don’t think that creates a very good image for visitors,” he said.
He dismissed claims that the students were being kept out of the loop on consultation about the restructure plans.
“We’ve afforded very significant opportunity for student participation in this," he said. Cazalys Community Fund 2018 is inviting any non-profit organisation that need access to funding to pursue their goals and individuals wanting to develop their academic or sporting achievements to apply.