A photo of a classroom chalkboard in Santiago de Cuba, shared by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, has gone viral on Facebook. "Achievements of revolutionary education in Cuba," the reporter sarcastically commented.
The image is from Josué País School in Santiago de Cuba, depicting a fragment of what was once a chalkboard, now featuring a large hole and leaning against a wall on a table. Dozens of internet users expressed their outrage in the post's comments.
"You haven't seen anything yet; there aren't even lamps. Everything is a disaster! And then the ignorant say that education is free," one user remarked.
"If 'free' means getting crap, I'd rather pay! You can't keep an entire nation ignorant while those who keep them captive live the sweet life," stated a resident of Santiago de Cuba.
"What's most painful is that our children attend these wretched schools and learn nothing because even the teachers don't care," lamented a mother.
"If a central-level inspection visits that school right now, they will bring out a new chalkboard, because that's how things are in this country," assured a woman from Havana.
In late August, a mother in Havana erupted over the poor conditions of her child's school, where her son has just started fourth grade. The woman shared a video showing the classroom's deterioration, with a ceiling stained by recent rainwater leaks, a floor covered in water, and a door almost falling off its hinges.
"I just feel like crying knowing my son has to study here. As soon as it rains, look at that ceiling and floor," the woman said indignantly.
"Kids get their hands pricked on these desks, uniforms get torn, books get ruined. Two little lamps, and if a child has vision problems, they're screwed," she emphasized.
Concerns About Cuban Education
Here are some questions and answers about the current state of education in Cuba, highlighted by the viral photo from Santiago de Cuba.
What sparked the viral reaction to the photo of the chalkboard?
The photo, shared by journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada, depicted severe neglect and poor conditions at Josué País School in Santiago de Cuba, highlighting the failures of Cuba's education system.
What are the main issues with schools in Cuba according to the comments?
Commenters pointed out the lack of basic facilities like lamps, the poor state of classroom infrastructure, and the overall neglect, which they argue is disguised by claims of "free education."
How do parents feel about the state of education in Cuba?
Parents expressed deep frustration and sadness, noting that their children are forced to study in unsafe and inadequate conditions that hinder their learning and well-being.