A student from the University of Havana has reported a pattern of thefts targeting student scholarships during vacation periods, in a message sent to CiberCuba via our Instagram chat. The young Cuban woman, whose name we have chosen to keep anonymous, expressed the frustration felt by dorm residents who are forced to leave some belongings in their rooms at the Lázaro Cuevas dormitory, more commonly known as F and 3rd, due to the impracticality of taking everything with them during short breaks.
According to her account, even though the belongings are locked in cabinets, upon returning to the space located in El Vedado, they find that these have been broken into and their personal items such as buckets, stoves, pots, pans, and even clothing, have been stolen.
She stated that the dormitory management does not take any responsibility, claiming that students were informed about the need to completely empty their rooms, which she considers impractical. The university student emphasized that this situation is not new and occurs every time there is a break, severely affecting the students who feel demotivated by the lack of security and the inaction of the university authorities.
Lack of Accountability and Security Concerns
She also raised concerns about who might be responsible, pointing fingers at the maintenance workers and custodians, as they are the only ones who remain on the premises during the vacations. Despite filing a formal complaint, the young woman fears that an adequate investigation will not be conducted and that the thefts will continue without consequences.
For this reason, in the hope that her testimony reaches the relevant authorities and prompts action, she called for the story to be published so that more people can be aware of the situation.
Concerns Over Security at University of Havana Dorms
Given the gravity of the situation described, here are some key questions and answers that may provide further insight into the ongoing issues at the University of Havana dormitories:
What items are typically stolen from the dormitories?
Students report that personal items such as buckets, stoves, pots, pans, and clothing are commonly stolen.
Who is suspected to be responsible for the thefts?
The students suspect the maintenance workers and custodians, as they are the only ones present during the break periods.
Has the university management taken any action?
The university management has not taken responsibility, stating that students were informed to empty their rooms completely.