Hurricane Rafael wreaked havoc on the western Cuban province of Artemisa on Wednesday, leaving at least 157 educational institutions damaged in its wake. Yaroby Álvarez, the Director General of Education in Artemisa, reported widespread damage across almost all educational facilities, with roofs being particularly affected.
Álvarez explained in a social media thread that the primary concerns are the partial and total deterioration of roofing, carpentry, and waterproofing materials. In response, he mentioned that several measures will be implemented in an effort to resume classes by Monday, as per the regime's announcement. These measures include scheduling changes, adjustments to classroom spaces, relocating students to nearby institutions, and conducting sessions in shifts.
The Cuban Ministry of Education (MINED) announced that classes would resume on November 11 in the western and central provinces, following suspensions earlier in the week due to the impending storm. However, the ministry clarified that schools suffering extensive damage from Hurricane Rafael and that haven't been repaired in time would not reopen under this plan.
During a televised address, Education Minister Naima Trujillo Barreto highlighted that the damage to educational infrastructure is specific, primarily involving the detachment of waterproofing layers and roof coverings.