Antiguan students pursuing studies in Cuba are continuing their academic programs despite facing notable hardships on the island, the government has confirmed.
Director General of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, addressed the matter during the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, where officials moved to counter concerns circulating about the welfare of Antiguan students overseas.
Merchant rejected reports characterising the students' situation as severe, describing some of the information in circulation as misleading. "There was some malicious information that was in the media about them being in dire straits," he said. "The government has been in constant communication with our students in the Republic of Cuba."
The students have themselves acknowledged the difficulties they are experiencing, but report they are managing and pressing forward with their coursework. "Students have indicated that while there are challenges, they are faring very well," Merchant said.
Among the hardships reported are intermittent electricity outages, water supply disruptions, and shortages of some basic products — conditions broadly reflective of the wider crisis affecting Cuba.
Despite those challenges, the students remain committed to completing their programs. Merchant noted that those expected to graduate later this year are eager to finish their studies and return home to serve Antigua and Barbuda. "They are coping very well and are pursuing their studies," he said.
