Villa Clara Prioritizes Scientific Advancement Amidst Challenges

The scientific community in Villa Clara, Cuba, is focusing on key priorities – including defense, food production, energy transition, and social policies – to bolster the region and the nation despite ongoing economic difficulties, such as the intensification of the U.S. Embargo and fuel shortages. This commitment was affirmed by Dr. María del Carmen Velasco Gómez, the delegate of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA) in Villa Clara.

Strategic Priorities for Scientific Focus

Dr. Velasco emphasized that science is crucial not only for resilience in challenging conditions but also for progress. Key sectors receiving focused attention include:

• Defense
• Food Production
• Energy Matrix Transformation
• Exports
• Social Policies
• Health
• Education
• Addressing Vulnerabilities

Integrated Management Programs Driving Innovation

To facilitate advancements, the CITMA in Villa Clara has designed Integrated Management Programs for Science, Technology, and Innovation, as well as for natural resources and the environment [CITMA Villa Clara]. These programs are designed to address the identified priorities and support sustainable development.

Boosting Agricultural Yields and Strengthening Industries

Research centers and scientific entities are actively working to increase agricultural yields, particularly in food and sugarcane production. Innovations are also being implemented to strengthen the sugar cane industry, including efficient biomass utilization and automation [Radio Caibarién]. Successful linkage practices between producers and institutions like the Institute of Plant Biotechnology (IBP) are being expanded, exemplified by collaborative efforts in potato production in municipalities like Camajuaní, Santa Clara, and Remedios.

Renewable Energy and Technological Advancement

A high priority is the transition to renewable energy sources, with a particular focus on the construction of photovoltaic parks. Villa Clara already has several operational parks with more under development. Support is also being provided for the installation of photovoltaic panels in homes and the restoration of windmills. The application of biotechnology to enhance food production and the implementation of agroecological practices with the National Association of Small Farmers (ANAP) are being actively pursued.

Collaboration and Knowledge Economy

Dr. Velasco stressed the importance of articulating all entities – including research centers, educational institutions, and businesses – to drive territorial development [Radio Caibarién]. She highlighted the need to embrace a “knowledge economy,” where knowledge is leveraged to solve problems and foster innovation across all sectors, from schools and polyclinics to infrastructure and institutions.

More than 30 projects are currently preserved, with eight identified as strategic for the province’s development. Dr. Velasco, recognized with the Carlos J. Finlay Order for her contributions [Vanguardia], concluded that the scientific community in Villa Clara is dedicated to finding solutions for the population and the economy, paving the way for a more favorable future.