Cuban Children Return to School Amidst Persistent Shortages and Economic Crisis
Over 10,000 Cuban schools reopened their doors to an estimated 1.4 million children and more than 135,000 teachers, despite chronic shortages of fuel, water, and power. The previous school year ended a month early in June due to these crises, which have worsened under a U.S. oil embargo and longstanding sanctions. President Miguel Díaz-Canel hailed the reopening as an achievement, attributing the challenges to the 'empire's plan of strangulation.' The Education Minister acknowledged the difficulties, calling the reopening a 'heroic act.' To cope with a widespread lack of professors, the government has called for volunteer teachers, including university students, professionals, and retirees, as teacher coverage fell to 73% across the island. Parents and the private sector are also expected to contribute to school meals, with some schools having only a 15-day food supply. School uniforms were largely unavailable, meeting only 12% of demand, leading officials to permit 'comfortable clothing' with traditional ... 
