IPN students maintain Canal Once occupation, demand high-level dialogue

Students from the National Polytechnic Institute's (IPN) National School of Biological Sciences (ENCB) continue their occupation of the Canal Once television station, refusing to vacate the premises until their demands are met. They are insisting on the presence of President Claudia Sheinbaum and the heads of the Interior and Finance ministries for any dialogue, accusing Education Secretary Mario Delgado of arriving "empty-handed."

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There are things that need time, there are things that need budget, but a work plan can be made to fulfill all your demands.

During a tense exchange outside the Canal Once facilities, the students reiterated their stance, stating they would not release the station until formal written responses to their petition were provided and the requested authorities appeared. Delgado proposed an immediate dialogue and a "first draft" of a response, acknowledging that some demands would require time, budget allocation, and administrative processes.

However, the students rejected Delgado's proposal, citing two previous missed appointments with the government. They are demanding the dissolution of the IPN's governing board, the dismissal of its director, Arturo Reyes Sandoval, increased funding for schools and laboratories, and accountability for alleged aggressions against students. They also reported receiving threats and noted that at least five students were injured in previous confrontations.

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We are not going to release the channel just because he brings us a draft.

The students strongly objected to Delgado's use of the term "hijacked canal," asserting that such language criminalizes their movement. A professor from ENCB also questioned Delgado about the "disdain" shown towards the polytechnic community, claiming that faculty members have also faced intimidation and threats. Delgado denied any acts of repression.

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We are not criminals.