We understand that the cyberattack was an unfortunate and unforeseen incident. However, we believe that the current response lacks consideration for the students' well-being and academic integrity. Our goal is not to criticise, but to collaborate and advocate for a more balanced solution that fairly addresses the concerns and burdens placed on students in this difficult situation. Together, we can find a better way forward.

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Key Points of Concern:

• University's Responsibility for the Situation:
  • While the cyberattack is an unfortunate event, TU/e should have been prepared for such a scenario by implementing appropriate preventive measures and a clear contingency plan. The absence of an adequate response strategy has left students and staff with only uncertainties, confusion, and added stress.
  • Instead of providing clarity or reducing student burdens, the proposed measures unfairly penalise students by negatively affecting their academic plans and personal lives.
• Inadequate Proposed Solution (Exam Delay):
  • The current solution shifts the burden to Q3, reducing study time by a week and increasing student stress.
  • Delaying exams disrupts important commitments like travel, internships, and doctor’s appointments, especially for international students who use this period to visit family.
  • Many students have already made non-refundable bookings, leading to financial losses without clear support from the university.
• Academic Calendar Disruption:
  • The delay reduces the duration of the next quartile by a week, adding pressure on students by shortening study time and increasing workload.
  • TU/e has always enforced strict adherence to the academic calendar (CBL projects, exams…), yet is now making sudden changes without providing proper alternatives or support.
  • Exam dates have been set and communicated since the start of the academic year, making it reasonable for students to have made plans around those dates; last-minute changes now unfairly disrupt these pre-arranged commitments.
• Impact on First-Year Students (BSA Requirements):
  • First-year students face uncertainty regarding Binding Study Advice (BSA) requirements due to delays and reduced time for the next quartile.
  • This adds undue stress and could unfairly affect students' academic performance and progression

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Suggested Demands for Change:

1. Alternative Examination Measures:
   
   • Allow students to take exams online, where possible, to minimise disruption. Similar to how it was done during the Covid19 pandemic.
   • Explore and implement alternative forms of examination, such as assignments, projects, or other assessment methods, to provide fair grading options while not disrupting previously made agreements.
   • In cases where an alternative is not feasible, provide flexible exam dates to accommodate students with pre-existing plans.
2. Financial Compensation:
   
   • In the case where no changes are made to the current solution, the university should provide a clear explanation of why students are expected to bear the financial burden resulting from this situation, and what support can be offered to minimise its impact.
3. Improved Communication and Clarity:
   • Provide clear answers regarding exam rescheduling, BSA implications, and potential support for affected students.

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Why This Change is Necessary:

• Students should not be expected to shoulder the consequences of an institutional issue.
• The current solution only creates further academic, financial and personal stress for students.
• A fairer and more flexible approach would mitigate the negative impact on students while ensuring academic integrity.

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We urge TU/e to reconsider its decision and adopt a more student-centred approach that acknowledges the significant inconvenience caused by the cyberattack. We believe that by working together, a more equitable solution can be found.