On Tuesday, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez met with the Advisory Council on Artificial Intelligence in Cuba, emphasizing the nation's need to keep pace with the global advancements in AI technology. Despite facing frequent power outages, limited Internet access, a lack of technical equipment, and outdated technology, Díaz-Canel is adamant that the country's liberation hinges on embracing AI.
"The world is advancing rapidly, and we cannot afford to lag behind. For a country like ours, artificial intelligence is a deciding factor. We have potential because, beyond infrastructure issues, this is about knowledge and preparation. It's similar to biotechnology, where we managed to reach world standards in a short time," Díaz-Canel stated.
During the discussion, the Advisory Council recommended enhancing the education of Cuban students, particularly university attendees, in AI-related subjects. They proposed revising the curriculum for Computer Engineering and related fields, and selecting high-achieving students to spearhead pilot projects within the nation.
This is not the first time the Cuban leader has addressed this topic. Back in December, during a Council of Ministers meeting, Díaz-Canel expressed his desire to employ AI as a vital tool to tackle the country's significant challenges. "Everyone is talking about AI and implementing it in their processes," he remarked. He reiterated this sentiment in January 2025, acknowledging the lack of infrastructure to support AI projects but asserting that the country possesses the human capital to aim for leadership in AI, at least within Latin America and the Caribbean.
His statements starkly contrast with the harsh realities faced by Cuban citizens and professionals, who often lack even modern mobile phones with reliable connectivity.
AI and Cuba's Future: Key Questions Answered
Why does Díaz-Canel believe AI is crucial for Cuba?
Díaz-Canel views AI as essential for Cuba's development and believes it can help the country overcome its challenges by leveraging knowledge and human capital despite infrastructure limitations.
What are the main obstacles Cuba faces in adopting AI?
Cuba struggles with frequent power outages, limited Internet access, a lack of modern technical equipment, and outdated technology, which hinder the adoption of AI.
How does Díaz-Canel plan to overcome these obstacles?
Díaz-Canel emphasizes the importance of education, suggesting curriculum changes and focusing on high-performing students to drive pilot AI projects, leveraging Cuba's human capital.