14 June 2006, 14:36
Students in Azerbaijan continue hunger strike
The hunger strike of several scores of students of the "Independent Azerbaijan" university has been lasting for 14 days already. As of today, four participants have been hospitalized. The health of Marina Guseinova, a third-year student, has deteriorated today, and the doctors had to put a lot of efforts in order to help her. Yesterday night the state of Farkhad Sadykhov, another participant in the action, became critical. Sadykhov was placed to the Baku Central Clinic with the diagnosis of an acute attack of chronic gastritis.
Despite numerous promises and assurances from various organizations, the students' problem has not been solved. The participants in the action have elected their representatives who, during the coming days, are to start negotiations with the Ministry of Education to settle the problem.
For reference, the students' hunger strike is being held with a demand to restore their right to education. It started after the Ministry of Education had refused to extend the license of the "Independent Azerbaijan" university. The students on hunger strike get legal aid from the experts of the Legal Aid Centre at the American Bar Association. As of today, more than 50 students take part in the action.
Author: Zaur Rasulzade, CK correspondent
