Molecular Biology Laboratory in Holguin. Photo: Amauris Betancourt (Archive)

Cuban Science with a Transformative Impact on Society

On January 15th, 1960, Fidel Castro announced that Cuba’s future lay in the hands of scientists. Since then, despite the numerous economic and technological limitations they have faced at different stages of the Revolution, workers in this sector have created products and services that benefit society and contribute to the country’s development, earning international recognition.

For decades, Cuban innovation has been an essential means of import substitution. Generating foreign exchange, and improving the population’s quality of life through significant advances. In various scientific fields, particularly in health, with innovative healthcare solutions.

Currently, more than 91,000 Cubans are involved in science, technology, and innovation. The country boasts a robust network of scientific and research centers that have achieved significant results of global significance. In biotechnology, medicine, environmental protection, and the social sciences and humanities.

Cuban scientists are responsible for the creation of highly effective vaccines such as the meningococcal vaccine, administered on the island since 1989. Heberbiovac HB against hepatitis B, used since 1992; the first therapeutic vaccine against lung cancer (CIMAVAX-EGF). And Heberprot-P, a unique and effective drug for treating diabetic foot ulcers.

Likewise, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cuban scientific community developed its own vaccines. Enabling the immunization of almost the entire population against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Furthermore, it is important to highlight the scientific advances in reducing viral load in HIV/AIDS patients and the clinical trials of drug candidates for the treatment of Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Similarly, the level of progress in Cuban science is evident in the development of genetic engineering and biotechnology. As well as in environmental sustainability, with notable efforts in biodiversity conservation and the rational use of natural resources. In environmental matters, noteworthy examples include the State Plan for confronting climate change. Known as Tarea Vida (Task Life), and actions to preserve the ozone layer.

Also emerging from Cuban scientific endeavors are research projects focused on the use of renewable energy. Also as a response to the country’s difficult electricity situation, and on organic agriculture in response to the need for food sovereignty.

Since 1990, the Cuban scientific community has celebrated its Day every January 15th. Highlighting diverse contributions within a socioeconomic context where men and women constitute a vital, entrepreneurial, and committed forcé. Overcoming a scarcity of financial resources and numerous technological challenges.

Yamila Pupo Otero
Latest posts by Yamila Pupo Otero (see all)