Sofia University Cancels Classes Over Student Occupation

A sign reading "Morality is not a vice" hanging from a window on the Sofia University central building. Photo by OffNews.bg

Classes at Sofia University will not be held Monday, and an emergency general assembly will be called, announced university president Prof. Ivan Ilchev.

Saturday Ilchev called an emergency sitting of the rector's council over a "permanent occupation" of the university's central building in downtown Sofia.

The occupation is staged by some students protesting what they see as unprincipled and hypocritical politics in Bulgaria.

They have called for the resignation of Bulgarian PM Plamen Oresharski and dissolution of the current parliament.

In an official statement released by the University, the rector states he fully respects the rights of students to express opinions and protest.

"We are convinced that young people have the right to express their public position, even at the cost of civil disobedience," said the institution.

"At the same tame, the occupation form of protesting is an extreme measure that hinders the fulfilment of the essential function of the University and breaches the rights of students who do not want the education process to be interrupted," adds the statement.

An emergency general assembly (Academic Council) has been called for Monday afternoon to decide how to deal with the situation.

Classes have been cancelled for the entire university - Bulgaria's oldest and most prestigious - for Monday.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!