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MONTREAL — An estimated 36,000 students were reportedly on strike Tuesday, however it's still business as usual for those who want to learn and Quebec politicians intend to keep it that way.

The Education Minister said Tuesday that students have their rights and can boycott or protest tuition hikes all they want, as long as they don't disrupt classes or prevent others from attending school.

Thus far most of the striking students are from three institutions, Cegep Marie Victorin, Cegep du Vieux Montreal and UQAM.

The issue appears not to have caught on at Dawson College where some expressed skepticism concerning the walkout.

"I just don't believe in the fight for tuition fees," said Caroline Alaumary. "Everyone can pay for Canada Goose jackets and cars and then all of a sudden like 10 bucks over the tuition fee."

Elsewhere, however, those out of class expressed a deep commitment to the cause

Phillip Lapointe said that the government should be footing the bill for post-secondary school.

"We do not believe that we should pay for our education. It should be free," he said.

"I'm here to prove that education is a social need and this is for everyone, it will be for my kids, but it's also for everyone that will be entering next year and the ones beyond."