Story perspectives

73% Teacher Coverage Prompts Havana Transfers of 3,000

9/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Education Minister Naima Trujillo Barreto opened the 2026-2027 school year despite shortages.
Over 10,000 schools began classes for 1.4 million children and 135,000 teachers on Sept 1.
Teacher coverage fell to 73%, prompting the transfer of more than 3,000 teachers to Havana.
Only 12% of primary uniform demand was met, forcing parents to pay US$2-US$5 per set.
Blackouts lasted up to 30 hours in Havana and days in other provinces.

History

Historical Context

After the Soviet Union collapsed in December 1991, Cuba entered the “Special Period,” during which GDP fell 35% and electricity was rationed, sparking chronic shortages. Decades of reliance on Soviet aid and later U.S. sanctions produced recurring blackouts, the worst of which resurfaced in 2024-2026. In February 2026, Education Minister Naima Trujillo Barreto opened schools for 1.4 million pupils, yet teacher coverage remains at 73%, echoing the lingering crisis.

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Story summary

Education Minister Naima Trujillo Barreto opened the 2026-2027 school year despite shortages.
Over 10,000 schools began classes for 1.4 million children and 135,000 teachers on Sept 1.
Teacher coverage fell to 73%, prompting the transfer of more than 3,000 teachers to Havana.
Only 12% of primary uniform demand was met, forcing parents to pay US$2-US$5 per set.
Blackouts lasted up to 30 hours in Havana and days in other provinces.

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