This September 1st, millions of Cuban students returned to classrooms for the start of the school year, which authorities described as a "heroic act" due to the intensification of the United States' economic, commercial, and financial blockade.

Las Tunas, Cuba.– In the province, the University of Medical Sciences opened its doors with a welcome message highlighting "the vocation of its students and the commitment of the health sector," affirmed Dainelis Acosta Cruz, president of the Federation of University Students (FEU) at the institution.

The 2026-2027 academic year will run in a context of severe energy, transportation, and resource limitations. Even so, Dr. Tania Sonia Rivero, dean of the Zoilo Enrique Marinello Faculty of Medical Sciences, welcomed those present with words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of being healthcare professionals and how much the Cuban people need them.

In closing, Dr. Ariel Guevara Bringa, Director-General of Health in Las Tunas, addressed the students, expressing his gratitude to the institution that trained most of the current faculty members. He also reminded them that, from now on, the responsibility for their future success rests on their shoulders: dedication, hard work, and the initiative to acquire new knowledge.