In a context where food production is reaffirmed as a matter of national security. The University of Holguin (UHo) joins the celebrations for International Plant Health Day.
Under this year’s global theme, “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security.” The Holguin-based university reaffirms its scientific leadership in protecting the crops that sustain the local economy.
The relevance of this day transcends the academic sphere. Worldwide, it is estimated that up to 40 percent of crops are lost due to pests and diseases. An impact that translates into commercial losses exceeding 220 billion dollars.
Given this scenario, UHo views plant health not only as an agricultural task, but also as an act of sovereignty and shared responsibility.
From its classrooms and research centers, the institution promotes the responsible management of natural resources. The goal is clear: to ensure that every healthy plant translates into safe food for Cubans and sustainable economic development for the province.
Also the close alliance between academia and the agricultural sector in Holguin has consolidated an innovation ecosystem. Also where science translates into tangible results for food security.
Through the development of resilient crops. Such as the I-B-S-16 sweet potato, and the implementation of high-yield varieties like the Paradiso potato. Which reaches 16 tons per hectare thanks to soil recovery—the University of Holguin (UHo) is leading the way in climate change adaptation in the region.
This impact is visible in local sovereignty programs like the “People’s Rice” project in Mayari. Also where advanced transplanting techniques protect crops from pests across more than 724 hectares.
At the same time, the University of Holguin (UHo) ensures the sustainability of these achievements by training highly qualified specialists in its laboratories. Forging the future engineers responsible for safeguarding biodiversity and the technical development of Holguin’s agricultural sector.
The University of Holguin’s celebration of this day is not an isolated event. Rather a reaffirmation of its role as a scientific driving force in the province.
Protecting plant health is, in essence, protecting life and the future of Cuba.
By: Daimy Peña Guillén
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