Cuba, Youth.

Life is tough in Cuba. Nobody has it easy.  But if anybody gets a bit of preference, it seems to be the kids. Rationing is one example. In Cuba, most of the family’s foodstuffs are acquired through the ration book system as un-rationed food is generally available only for CUC’s and hence is very expensive. How much milk does a person get? None. It's just for the kids (U7).


There are a lot of other little luxuries (sadly milk is a luxury) that are extended just to the kids. In my travels around Havana I came upon lots of opportunities for recreation intended for the younger children.  Pony rides, amusement park, playgrounds – not elaborate but available for pesos.  In the Cuban Art Museum, downstairs in the foyer they set up chairs, a stage and a sound system for a children’s show targeted at preschool and elementary school children. The show was pretty good. The performer was clearly a professional, her props were stage quality. It was the kind of thing you would expect to see on a local TV show, given for kids and their parents without cost.

Several times during the week I saw small groups of school age kids, in their uniforms, walking in groups clearly out on field trips. Some of these activities were doubtless part of the Pioneer program (based on the day and time I saw them - Saturday p.m. It wasn't likely a school outing)  Nearly all Cuban youth participate in the Pioneers, a trademark part of life in a Leninist country. Who better to raise your kids than the party?

A uniform at every grade

Though in their programs for youth the party's motives may be clear, it does not change the fact that youth and education are a priority. Compared to the United States, as a percentage of GDP, Cuba spends roughly 5 times what we spend.  In real terms, that may be less than we spend but it speaks to the value Cubans place on educating their youth.  

And they get results.  As I said before, Cuba’s medical program has become one of Cuba's few export products. It is a product of the education system.  Illiteracy, once a fact of life for many Cubans is now almost unheard of. There is great potential in Cuba's youth. It is ironic that the regime feeds that potential only to stifle it later, after they graduate. (see Cuba Commerce – coming soon)