A partial collapse at “Holvein Quesada” elementary school, located in the Santa Amalia neighborhood of Arroyo Naranjo municipality in Havana, has underscored the alarming state of disrepair in educational facilities across Cuba.
The incident occurred during the school vacation, averting a potential tragedy that could have been catastrophic if it had happened during school hours with children and teachers present, according to the Facebook page La Tijera.
This school has long exhibited signs of structural degradation, making this collapse a stark warning about the precarious conditions not only at this institution but at many others nationwide.
The situation at this school is not an isolated case; numerous educational centers throughout Cuba face similar deterioration, endangering the safety of thousands of students and teachers, La Tijera warned.
Government Claims Readiness Despite Evident Decay
Despite these alarming conditions, the regime insists that the country is ready to start the new school year in September. This claim emerged during a nationwide tour conducted by Naima Ariatne Trujillo, the Minister of Education, as reported by Radio Habana Cuba.
The disrepair of buildings in Cuba is so severe that incidents occur across the country, often caught on casual videos. A partial building collapse in Havana was recorded by locals who witnessed the critical moment when a balcony fell off the structure.
The video, shared on Instagram by a user identified as The Spartan Vlog, captured the moment the balcony of a dilapidated building crumbled onto the sidewalk, as neighbors watched and commented.
In late June, three people were injured after a balcony collapsed onto the El Tablazo café, located on 1st Street between C and D in El Vedado.
In April, the collapse of an awning on San Lázaro and Gervasio streets in the Centro Habana municipality led to the fall of several balconies on the first floor of dilapidated buildings.
In early August, the staircase of a multifamily building collapsed in Old Havana, leaving several residents trapped and isolated.
FAQs on the Deterioration of Educational Institutions in Cuba
The following questions and answers provide insight into the critical situation affecting Cuba's educational institutions and the broader implications for the country's infrastructure.
What caused the partial collapse at Holvein Quesada elementary school?
The collapse was due to long-term structural degradation that had been evident for years.
Are other schools in Cuba facing similar issues?
Yes, numerous educational centers across Cuba are experiencing similar deterioration, posing significant risks to students and teachers.
How has the Cuban government responded to these incidents?
Despite the evident decay, the government claims that the country is ready to commence the new school year, as stated by the Minister of Education.
Have there been other recent building collapses in Havana?
Yes, several incidents have been reported, including balcony collapses in El Vedado and Centro Habana, and a staircase collapse in Old Havana.