The Luis Urquiza Jorge Vocational Pre-University Institute of Exact Sciences (IPVCE) has established itself as a true center of academic training, where each class becomes rigorous preparation for national competitions.
Las Tunas, Cuba.– After an intense training period, students are ready for the country's most important science competitions. However, the current economic situation and fuel shortages have forced the postponement of these events, creating uncertainty about when and where they will finally take place.
Professor Orestes Landrove, coordinator of the Las Tunas Provincial Training Center for Contestant Students, explained that, despite the obstacles, everything is ready to hold the contests when the decision is made. However, alternatives have been sought to maintain the pace of study and the students' motivation.
“Some provinces have taken the initiative to organize online competitions in various subjects. In Physics, for example, a joint exercise is underway between Camagüey, Las Tunas, and Havana. The process involves administering exams, scanning, and sending them to grading centers, so the students receive their results and continue training. A Biology practice session is scheduled for next week, and others are planned to maintain consistent preparation.”
During the mornings, the contestant students attend their regular classes, and when one of these sessions arises, time is set aside for testing them. According to Landrove, this type of exercise is essential because it helps students to identify the areas where they have the most difficulty and reinforce their studies.
“The training is complemented by digital platforms; each subject has a WhatsApp group managed by its instructor, where exams, exercises, assignments, and videos are shared. Occasionally, in-person sessions are organized in the afternoon to address specific topics, which require additional effort from the students.”
The professor also highlighted the support of university students who were once contestants at the IPVCE and who, now from institutions such as the universities of Havana and Oriente (Santiago de Cuba), have voluntarily returned to collaborate in the students' preparation.
"These alumni, with experience in Olympiads and contests, possess a high academic level and have become the best possible coaches for the current students. Fortunately, they came, contacted the school administration, and are now working with us," Landrove expressed with satisfaction.
Amidst the difficulties, the collective effort of professors, coaches, and alumni has allowed maintaining the student preparation and motivation. The IPVCE, as a center of excellence and discipline, demonstrates that passion for knowledge and dedication to study can overcome any obstacle, while keeping alive the hope of a brilliant performance in national competitions.
