What assumption can be made regarding Chilean students' protests for free university education in 2012?

The assumption that Chilean students’ protests for free university education stem from their inability to afford fees is based on the economic realities many students face regarding higher education. In Chile, the cost of university tuition has been a significant burden, prompting widespread protests. The movement highlights concerns that access to education is influenced heavily by financial means, where economic barriers prevent many capable students from pursuing their desired course of study.

This perspective aligns with the belief that the protests are driven by the desire for equitable access to education, rather than a lack of value placed on education itself or a preference for work over study. The protests emphasize the students' advocacy for access to education as a fundamental right, reinforcing the notion that financial constraints are a critical issue in higher education rather than an assessment of the valiance or worth of education itself. Therefore, the focus on affordability through these protests is a clear indication that financial limitations are a core concern for the students involved.