Columbia University Switches to Hybrid Classes Amid Pro-Palestinian Protests

Columbia University has announced that it will switch to a hybrid learning model for the remainder of the spring 2024 semester, prompting dissatisfaction among students. The decision comes as pro-Palestinian protests and encampments have been disrupting campus life in recent weeks.

The university stated that all classes, with the exception of arts- or practice-based programs, will remain hybrid until the end of the term. Students have the option to attend lectures in person or remotely. The hybrid model will also extend to final exams, according to a notification sent to students and faculty.

The move to mostly hybrid classes is part of the university's efforts to address safety concerns and "de-escalate the rancor" on campus, as President Minouche Shafik put it. The protests, known as the Gaza Solidarity Encampment, have led to dozens of arrests and heightened tensions, particularly for Jewish students who have reported feeling unsafe and experiencing harassment.

Why this matters: The situation at Columbia reflects a broader trend of pro-Palestinian activism sweeping through college campuses across the United States. Universities are grappling with how to balance free speech rights with the need to maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.

Similar protests have erupted at other universities, including Yale University and New York University, where over 130 protesters were arrested for disruptive behavior. The protesters have articulated a range of demands, such as an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, an end to U.S. military aid to Israel, and university divestment from companies involved in the conflict.

At Columbia, the administration has faced pressure from various sides, with some faculty members criticizing the decision to call in the New York Police Department to disperse protests, while others have demanded increased police presence. Donors and lawmakers have also urged President Shafik to take further action to dismantle the protest encampment.

The unrest has drawn the attention of U.S. government officials, with Education Secretary Miguel Cardona expressing concern over incidents of antisemitism at Columbia and pointing to a civil rights investigation opened by the department. The White House has also weighed in, condemning the "blatant antisemitism" on college campuses while affirming the right to peacefully protest.

Key Takeaways

• Columbia Univ. switches to hybrid learning model amid pro-Palestinian protests
• Protests disrupt campus life, leading to dozens of arrests and safety concerns
• Unrest reflects broader trend of pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses
• Univ. faces pressure from various sides, including calls for increased police