Children play on a sculpture in Havana in April. The Cuban energy crisis and a shortage of teachers and supplies have impacted education at all levels, File Photo by Ernesto Mastrascusa/EPA
June 1 (UPI) -- Cuba's ongoing energy crisis is taking a heavy toll on the country's education system, as frequent blackouts, a lack of school resources, transportation problems and a shortage of teachers undermine the quality of instruction across the island.
For decades, Cuba's government has presented its centralized and free education system as one of the country's key achievements. The late President Fidel Castro was a disciple for literacy and encouraged bringing great works of literature into classrooms.
However, the system now faces growing deterioration that is limiting opportunities for younger generations, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO.
The country's severe energy crisis has forced the Cuban government to end the school year 15 days earlier than planned because of the collapse of the national power grid and fuel shortages. The situation has left large areas of the country without electricity for periods of up to 48 consecutive hours.
