The economic and financial blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States and intensified in recent years has a direct impact on Cuban education, one of the most humane projects since the Cuban Revolution came to power in 1959.
A Literacy Campaign in 1961 put an end to illiteracy and access to education and development was open to all, regardless of race or religious creed. Centuries of ignorance were left behind and, from that moment on, many projects saw the light of day and are now showing their results.
However, how much would be done in the field of education if this blockade did not exist; how many projects would have better results; how much would improve what is taught in children’s circles, if everything necessary could be bought: toys, didactic games; if all the necessary milk could be imported or could be produced in the country.
Better without the US blockade
Our elementary school teachers would do much better if there were no shortage of pencils, notebooks or other teaching aids that are impossible to have today, if all the laboratory experiments that improve understanding could be carried out, if we could have everything necessary in those laboratories.
Education in Cuba would be different if the US blockade did not exist. Dreams that have been dragging on for decades would come true, the learning processes that are nowadays so sadly scourged would be improved.
Sometimes even medical attention in educational centers is in danger, even when the State makes an effort and guarantees it free of charge.
As in other times, education in Cuba will not stop, in spite of material limitations. The sharp thorn of the blockade whips us but it does not stop us.
