Thousands of students in Hong Kong have transformed a university campus into “Democracy Central”, boycotting their classes for a week in protest of Beijing’s decision to retain authority over who can and who cannot run in the upcoming elections in the former British colony.

Students from more than 20 universities and colleges gathered for a sit-in at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, some holding banners that read, “The boycott must happen. Disobey and grasp your destiny.”  Most wore the white shorts with yellow ribbons adopted as a symbol by Hong Kong democracy activists.  About 400 academics and teachers are taking part, and there are reports of high schoolers holding smaller demonstrations.

“We demand the government responds to our call to endorse civil nominations,” said Alex Chow of the Hong Kong Federation of Students, who called on Hong Kong voters to “reject fake elections”.

China had promised democratic elections for Hong Kong Chief Executive by 2017.  But in August, Beijing declared that only candidates that were vetted by a nominating committee in the capital could run.  Critics say the government will filter out candidates of whom it does not approve.

An even larger demonstration is planned to begin on 1 October in the financial district by the group Occupy Central, which some say could shut down the area.