Suva, June 16, 2026 – The Cuban Ambassador to Fiji, Néstor Torres Olivera, was received by the Minister of Education of this Pacific nation, Hon. Aseri Radrodro, at the headquarters of that government institution. During the cordial meeting, both parties reaffirmed the positive state of bilateral relations and agreed on their mutual desire to strengthen cooperation in the educational field.
As a central focus of the agenda, the authorities evaluated the continuation and expansion of the government scholarship program that Cuba offers annually to young people from Fiji and other Pacific islands. This program, historically focused on medical sciences, has allowed hundreds of professionals from the region to graduate and now provide key services in their communities. Minister Radrodro acknowledged the value of the project and expressed his Ministry's commitment to working in coordination with the diplomatic mission to fully exploit the opportunities it offers.
During the dialogue, the Cuban diplomat outlined the harsh realities facing the education system in his country due to the brutal effects of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States government. This unilateral policy hinders access to basic school supplies and essential equipment for schools and universities. The energy crisis, exacerbated by the sanctions, has forced institutions to implement contingency measures, such as reduced school hours and the temporary suspension of in-person classes at universities, negatively affecting the teaching and learning process on the island. Nevertheless, Cuba's commitment to solidarity and international cooperation with sister nations in the Global South, such as Fiji, remains unwavering, the ambassador affirmed.
(Embacuba Fiyi)