A few weeks ago, and in the middle of the students’ exam time, Aberystwyth University announced its plans to close Pantycelyn Halls of Residence. The decision was a bitter blow to theWelsh language community of students, members of the University’s staff, and prospective and former students throughout Wales and beyond.
Even with the bad timing and short notice of the announcement, the #AchubPantycelyn campaign, which had thought to be won only a few months previously, was reignited and reinvigorated. Students from UMCA (the Welsh Language Students Union of Aberystwyth), members of staff, along with members of Cymdeithas yr Iaith and Plaid Cymru Youth came together in order to occupy the Building.
After a week of protesting, word came on Thursday that the University would agree to commit itself to keeping Pantycelyn as a Welsh language hall. The Chancellor, Emyr Jones Parry, said that Pantycelyn would re-open after four academic years and that Penbryn would be offered as Welsh language halls in the meantime.
Yesterday the protesters held an open day within the occupied area of the hall in order to raise awareness of their campaign. Many people were celebrating the news, including Elin Jones AM, who said:
This decision is, first and foremost, a victory for the Welsh language, and is a result of a positive and vibrant campaign. Aberystwyth University listened to its students and honoured its Charter duty to the Welsh language.
Even though there is cause for celebration, it’s really important to ensure that the university keeps to its word with this. Pantycelyn is much more than a building, and it seems that the university is only just beginning to realise this. Pantycelyn is more than a halls of residence, but rather an icon and stronghold for the language. We all have a duty to hold the university to its promise. The Building, the community and the language are too important to lose.
