Amidst the severe crisis engulfing the island, a polytechnic school in Santiago de Cuba has been forced to pause its educational activities because of a food scarcity, as revealed in a video shared by independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta on social media.
The footage captures the school's director informing students that classes would be suspended until Wednesday owing to the insufficient availability of food. This situation has led the public to question the authorities' ability to ensure even the basic conditions necessary for education in the island's schools.
Widespread Educational Disruption
Earlier this week, similar problems have surfaced in other institutions, highlighting a widespread issue across the educational system. Mayeta also reported on Monday about the dire circumstances in the city's daycare centers, where children are reportedly receiving minimal food portions, such as trays containing only white rice.
University Crisis and Student Protests
This issue is not isolated. Last week, the Observatory of Academic Freedom raised alarms about the crisis at the Central University "Marta Abreu" of Las Villas (UCLV), where students are grappling with a lack of electricity and potable water. Due to the fuel shortage affecting water transportation, students protested but faced threats from authorities and State Security, according to reports.
Calls for Accountability and Autonomy
Academic and human rights organizations have urged UCLV's rector, Luis A. Barranco Olivera, to fulfill his responsibilities and shield students from any reprisals. They demand respect for university autonomy and condemn the political police's intimidation of students.