How to hold universities responsible for withholding results?

We believe universities owe a duty of care to their students because they charge expensive tuition fees. This means universities should within a reasonable time release results on which students rely for job search and further education. If you are affected by university strike action and want to hold your university responsible for lost opportunities, there are several steps you can take:

Understand your rights: Familiarise yourself with the policies and regulations of the university regarding the release of results during strike actions. Check the student handbook, academic regulations, or any relevant documentation that outlines the university's responsibilities in such situations.

Gather evidence: Document any communication or evidence that supports your claim of withheld results due to strike action. This could include emails, notices, or any other correspondence from the university regarding the strike and its impact on result release.

Contact the relevant department or faculty: Reach out to the department or faculty responsible for handling the release of results. Explain your situation, provide evidence, and ask for clarification on the reasons for the delay. Request a timeline for when the results will be released.

Seek support from student organisations: Contact student unions, associations, or organisations that represent student interests. They may have experience dealing with similar situations and can provide guidance or support. They might also have mechanisms in place to address issues related to withheld results during strikes.

Escalate the issue internally: If you are unsatisfied with the response from the department or faculty, you can escalate the issue by contacting higher authorities within the university. This could include academic advisors, ombudspersons, or administrators responsible for overseeing student affairs. Provide them with a detailed account of the situation and the evidence you have collected.

Understand external recourse options: Research external avenues for complaint or appeal, such as higher education governing bodies or regulatory agencies in your country. These organisations may have procedures in place to address complaints against universities and ensure compliance with regulations.

Seek legal advice if necessary: In extreme cases where you believe your rights as a student have been violated, you may consider seeking legal advice from a lawyer who specialises in education law. They can provide guidance on potential legal actions or options available to you.

Remember to remain calm, respectful, and professional when dealing with university staff throughout the process. Effective communication and documentation are key to resolving such issues.