KSHEC hosts lecture on Cuba’s experience in science, innovation and international cooperation

The Kerala State Higher Education Council (KSHEC) organised a lecture on ‘Science, Innovation and International Cooperation: The Cuban Experience’ on Monday.

The lecture was delivered by Dr. José Ramón Cabañas Rodríguez, a distinguished Cuban diplomat who presently heads CIPI, a leading policy research institution under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba.

He also serves as a member of the Technical Advisory Council of the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dr. Cabañas has held several important positions including the first Ambassador of Cuba to the United States from 2015 to 2020.

The diplomat provided a detailed overview of Cuba’s experience in building a strong ecosystem of science, public health, and innovation despite resource constraints. He also highlighted the distinctive features of the Cuban healthcare system, which places strong emphasis on preventive care, community-based health services, and universal access.

The Cuban model, he noted, demonstrates how sustained public investment in education, scientific research and public health can generate globally recognised outcomes.

A key focus of the lecture was Cuba’s achievements in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector, particularly through BioCubaFarma, the State-run conglomerate responsible for research, development and production of vaccines.

Reflecting on the relationship between Cuba and Kerala, Dr. Cabañas highlighted several similarities between the two regions. He also emphasised the scope for deeper collaboration, and added that partnerships between universities and research institutions in Kerala and Cuba could lead to academic exchanges and collaborative programmes.

Faculty members, researchers and representatives from universities and research institutions across the State participated in the event. KSHEC member secretary Rajan Varughese presided over the programme.