University rector speaks to occupying students in Turkey

ISTANBUL - Radikal

Radikal photo

Bogaziçi University's rector has met with students who protested overpriced campus food by occupying the campus Starbucks outlet, Radikal reported.

The students occupied the university’s Starbucks a month ago to protest rising food prices across the school campus. Since then, the occupation has spread to several other areas in school, including the university cafeteria.

After weeks of attempted intervention, the university's rector finally agreed to meet the students to hear their demands in a 'neutral' location.

Over 300 students met with him in the gym to attend a session lasting over five hours.

Students' demand for a non-profit cafeteria run by students was unofficially accepted, but evicting Starbucks from the campus remains impossible due to legal obligations tied to the business deal.

The rector is expected to release a written statement Jan. 4.