US energy blockade 'risks' Cuba's education system, warns UNESCO

The United States' energy blockade against Cuba is placing the island's education system at risk, impacting teacher presence and shortening school days, according to UNESCO.

Cuba, under a U.S. trade embargo since 1962, is experiencing a severe economic crisis exacerbated by the Trump administration's threat of sanctions on nations supplying oil to Havana. This has resulted in widespread fuel scarcity, transportation limitations, and persistent power outages.

“

The energy and transportation limitations affect the presence of teachers, worsening a national deficit of more than 26,000 teachers.

Anne Lemaistre, UNESCO's representative in Cuba, stated that energy and transportation constraints are worsening a national teacher deficit exceeding 26,000. In response, the Cuban government has implemented emergency measures, including reduced school hours and an earlier conclusion to the academic year.

“

The current situation puts education at risk on the island, and endangers the future of an entire generation, with long-term consequences.

Approximately 400,000 students have experienced shortened educational schedules, while nearly 28,000 students in their final year face a "critical" situation to complete their studies, particularly in rural and remote areas. Lemaistre also noted that 30% of children and adolescents have been displaced by recent weather events, and over 870 schools damaged by Hurricane Melissa in October remain unrepaired.

UNESCO's regional office warned that the current situation "puts at risk" education on the island and "endangers the future of an entire generation, with long-term consequences." The organization is collaborating with the Cuban Ministry of Education to quantify the teaching days lost due to Washington's oil blockade.

“

Education in Cuba is at risk due to the current energy crisis.