The history of the Cuban education system goes back to the time of the revolution. After Fidel Castro took power in 1959, he took care of the impoverished population with the “literacy campaign” and free education. In doing so, he legitimized the socialist government and created the myth of the colossal educational system.

But with the fall of the Soviet Union in 1992, a turning point and a period of great economic difficulties began. At that time, academics left their positions to enter the tourism industry. The low prospects for the future meant that young Cubans no longer went to the universities.

Many today have several jobs, working as teachers during the day and taxi drivers at night. Teachers earn an average of around 22 euros a month. What used to be a lot of money is no longer even enough to survive after the economic crisis, cuts in food subsidies, and higher prices. This not only affects the quality of life but also the quality of schooling.

The article was written by HELEN FLEMMING,  MAGDALENA STEPIEN

READ THE FULL ARTICLE IN THE PDF ATTACHED.