Cuba Crisis: Father of Belizean Medical Student Speaks Out

Belizean medical students studying in Cuba are facing growing uncertainty as the island struggles with severe fuel shortages, widespread power outages, and disruptions to essential services, raising concerns among families back home.

Following the U.S. block of its major oil supply, Cuba is now producing only about half the electricity it needs, leading to long and unpredictable blackouts.

The outages have disrupted water pumping, food and medicine storage, transportation, and telecommunications, services critical for both daily living and academic life. Internet and phone disruptions have made it harder for students to participate in remote learning and stay in contact with their families.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Education Francis Fonseca told News Five the government is actively monitoring the situation. According to the ministry, there are 28 Belizean students currently studying in Cuba, and officials remain in contact with them through Belize’s embassy in Cuba.

Fonseca said there has been no unusual disruption to academic programmes so far, noting that about 20 of the students are in their final year. Authorities remain hopeful they will be able to complete their studies despite the country’s ongoing challenges.

Relatives in Belize, however, say the situation has made communication difficult and increased anxiety. One Belizean father shared his son’s account of the worsening conditions: “More power outages, more water interruptions. More frequent and more lengthy.”

“He has expressed concern as to what will be the future of the island, and of course, the future of their studies,” the father added. His son has completed four and a half years of a seven‑year medical programme.

While worried, the father expressed faith in Belize’s authorities. “I am pretty sure that our government here will do what is necessary to ensure their safety and repatriation if it’s necessary. And see what steps need to be taken thereafter,” he said.