Universities in Burma remain closed

[bcn@xxxxxxxxx]

According to student sources from inside Burma the SLORC may not reopen the
universities on 18th or 20th of September as was originally planned, for
fear of renewed demonstrations. Factors that may spark off unrests:
-The beginning of this week a female 5th year RIT university student died
in a car accident. The case will appear in court on Sept. 20th. which may
coincide with the reopening date.
-Several students (4 according to one source, 7 according to another) were
arrested on Sept. 14 while they were trying to establish a small library in
the area of Hledan intersection. These students are known for their active
participation in the december demonstrations.
-Yesterday the results of the december metriculation exams were made known.
An unprecedented low percentage of the students passed the exams.

The authorities have already held meetings with university teachers in
Rangoon and possibly other cities to check whether the teachers could
guarantee that they were able to control the students. The teachers replied
that they could not give such a guarantee. One student from inside Burma
commented: "The SLORC violates the students rights. Even a basic right such
as access to education is denied to us."