On March 13, 2025, Her Excellency Mrs. Ismara Mercedes Vargas Walter, Cuban Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and First Secretary Mr. Pablo Arturo Ginarte Sampedro undertook a working visit to Oxford, organized by the Oxford Cuba Solidarity Campaign (CSC) and the National Education Union, Oxfordshire. The visit facilitated meaningful exchanges with students, academics, trade unionists, and supporters of Cuba.
They were warmly welcomed by Carol Stavris, secretary of Oxford CSC, and Roger McKenzie, International Editor of the Morning Star. The first stop was Cheney School, which has a rich history dating back to 1797. It became Oxford Central Girls School in 1901, relocated to Cheney Lane in 1959 as Cheney Girls Grammar School, and merged with Cheney Technical School in 1972 to form Cheney Comprehensive School. Today, it serves around 1,700 students aged 11 to 18, with 33% having English as an additional language, reflecting its diversity. Originally a Language College, it later specialized in Student Leadership, promoting student voice and leadership in sports and languages. The school also hosts the Rumble Museum, the UK’s first school museum accredited by the Arts Council, enriching students' learning experiences.
In Cheney School the Ambassador and First Secretary engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with sixth form politics students. Under the guidance of Martin Daniels, Head of Politics, and George Buchanan, Head of Economics and Business, the students had the unique opportunity to learn about the roles of the Ambassador and First Secretary and gain insight into the government and politics of Cuba, the impact of the blockade and other topics. The conversation helped broaden their understanding of Cuba's revolutionary history, its political landscape, and the current international dynamics.
Following the school visit, the delegation proceeded to Oxford Brookes University. Oxford Brookes University, founded in 1865 as the Oxford School of Art, has deep roots in serving the working-class community. It became Oxford Polytechnic in 1970 and gained university status in 1992, named after its former principal, John Henry Brookes, who championed accessible education. The university’s close ties to industry are highlighted by its partnership with the Volkswagen car factory in Oxford, where students have gained hands-on experience. Renowned for its inclusivity and excellence, it was the first university globally to achieve Fairtrade status in 2003 and has been ranked as the UK’s top modern university for over a decade.
There, the Ambassador and the First Secretary participated in an informal discussion on the Cuban education system with Professor Patrick Alexander, Research Lead in Education. The exchange highlighted the values and achievements of Cuba's educational model, sparking a rich dialogue about shared challenges and aspirations in the field of education.
The day concluded with a reception where the Cuban delegation met with the Lord Mayor of Oxford, NEU officials, Oxford Cuba Solidarity Campaign members, Oxford Trades Council officers, trade unionists, and other supporters of Cuba. The social setting provided an atmosphere of solidarity and friendship, reaffirming the strong ties between Cuba and its supporters in Oxford.
In her address, the Cuban Ambassador expressed deep gratitude for the solidarity extended towards Cuba, emphasizing the importance of such support in the face of ongoing challenges, including the unjust U.S. blockade and Cuba's inclusion on the State Sponsors of Terrorism list. Highlighting the absurdity of this designation, the Ambassador noted that Cuba has no history of terrorism; rather, it has been a victim of such acts. The Ambassador underscored Cuba's commitment to humanitarian efforts, with its doctors, teachers, and missions reaching vulnerable communities worldwide, asserting that Cuba's only 'guilt' lies in defending its right to an independent and sovereign future. The Ambassador lauded the advocacy efforts of supporters, acknowledging that their campaigns and truth-sharing about Cuba make a tangible difference, serving as a powerful force for change. The Ambassador expressed enthusiasm for continued collaboration, building stronger connections, and welcoming supporters to Cuba to experience firsthand the resilience and warmth of the Cuban people. The Ambassador thanked for the unwavering support of all present.
The Embassy of Cuba expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the Oxford Cuba Solidarity Campaign, the National Education Union, and all those who contributed to the success of this enriching visit. The exchanges held throughout the day served as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Cuba and the British people.