The rector's proposal obviously did not please the audience: there was whistling, unhappy mooing and even silent swearing.
I couldn't hold back a sarcastic grin: people are completely mad!
– The essence of the experiment is quite simple: each of you will study with one of the junior students until the winter session: one, two, or maybe all the subjects he is not good with… – the rector continued his speech.
– Can I opt out of it? Is the programme voluntary? Why weren't we asked? – was heard from all sides.
– I don't understand why there's so much noise and sour faces? The experimental programme is involuntary, but it is compulsory for each of you! Everyone participates. However, it can be cancelled. – The Rector waited for a sigh of relief to spread through the hall before he continued, dashing my hopes with just three words. – But not you. Only those with whom you will be studying have the privilege of withdrawing from this magnificent programme. But I must personally see an objective reason for the cancellation. Are there no more questions?
There was silence in the hall.
– What a circus! – I said quietly, realising what a swamp I had got myself into.
– After the meeting, everyone come to my office: there you will be given the names of your new friends. – The rector looked round the room carefully. – Anyone who does not comply with the experimental programme has every reason, to put it bluntly, to leave the university.
– But we pay for our studies! Why should we have to fulfil our teachers' duties? It's not fair! – shouted someone from the back row in a disgruntled tone. He was immediately supported by a rumble of voices.
– This experimental programme will only last for a few months. But of course, if you think that your money gives you the right to disobey the programme at Charles University, you can always transfer," the rector replied and switched off the microphone.
These words had a deafening effect: there was a dead silence in the hall.
The rector, probably satisfied with the result of his speech, left the hall. As soon as he disappeared into the corridor, the hall seemed to explode: students were loudly indignant and complained to each other about the blatant injustice. Everyone was displeased. But I kept silent, hiding my discontent deep in my soul.