Meet the Lucky Recipients Who Will Study in Cuba

On Thursday, the Government of Cuba awarded medical scholarships to thirteen Belizean students. According to the Ministry of Education, ten will be majoring in medicine, two in nursing and one in psychology. The annual Cuba-Belize Scholarship Program awards young Belizeans who are interested in pursuing careers in the medical field. During a brief ceremony this week, the recipients were asked to be resolute in their studies despite challenges and to commit to building small countries like Belize.

Dian Maheia

Dian Maheia, C.E.O., Ministry of Education

“When we think of Cuba’s commitment to this scholarship program, we realise that the Cuban gifts to our nation really go past the gift of possession. Cuba gives of itself in the sustain dedication to the Belizean students who travel there in search of higher education.”

Maria Caridad Balaguer Labrada

Maria Caridad Balaguer Labrada, Cuban Ambassador to Belize

“The Cuban government gives priority to the training of human resources who re the foundation for the development of a country. And that is why since the triumph of the Cuban revolution, one of the goals set by the revolutionary government was access to the free education and the continuous improvement of educational institutions. I want to tell you that in Cuba, you will have the opportunity to know friendly people who will receive all of you with love and friendship. You will also have the opportunity to know students from our region and other continents as the sign of solidarity that must prevail among all our nations for the benefit of our peoples.”

Francis Fonseca

Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education

“I say this to all students who travel representing Belize, you are an ambassador of Belize. Each and every one of you is an ambassador of Belize when you are out there. What you do out there, what you do in Cuba, reflects on you, it reflects on your family and it reflects on the people of Belize. it’s a beautiful opportunity, it is an honour to get this scholarship; many people try and you are the chosen ones this year so take full advantage of this opportunity – make the most of it, make yourself proud, make your families proud and make Belize proud.”

Since the scholarship program was established, over two hundred Belizean students have had the opportunity to study in Cuba. This year, Belize and Cuba celebrate twenty-seven years of bilateral relations and cooperation.