CAMAGÜEY.—The Ministry of Science, Technology, and Environment (Citma) in this province presented awards to Camagüey-based research centers and scientists whose work has had a significant impact on social development, as part of the activities commemorating Cuban Science Day.
Eleven research results were honored with the Provincial Award for Academia and Innovation, all noted for their direct impact on the population.
“My work, Participatory plant breeding for the diversification of roots, tubers, vegetables, and grains in Camagüey, is aimed at improving crops and boosting food production in the region—especially cassava, sweet potato, squash, cucumber, beans, and corn,” explained Mario Alain Díaz López, a specialist at the Institute for Research on Tropical Root Crops.
“For specialists across different disciplines, the call is not to halt our work, even amid a critical scenario. For the good of society, it is our responsibility to generate valuable contributions that meet the needs of our country and also extend to international arenas,” said Dr. Elizeth Soledad Lafita Vázquez on behalf of the scientific community during the ceremony.
The event also recognized the professional careers and significant contributions of PhD. Camilo Bonet Pérez and PhD. Alberto Vidal Corona, as well as the work of a group of young talents, researchers, and students.
Yordanis Luis Blanco was likewise honored for receiving a World Science Award. The essential role of local institutions that drive change in agriculture, medicine, agroecology, the environment, and the economy was also acknowledged. Among them were the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology; the University of Medical Sciences and University Ignacio Agramonte Loynaz; the Center for Research and Development of Infantry Armament; the Alternative Technologies Enterprise; the Provincial Directorate of Education; and the Camagüey–Ciego de Ávila branch of the Cuban Academy of Sciences.
The occasion also served for the Territorial Delegation of Citma to highlight the work of the Communist Party, the Government, and People’s Power in the region. In turn, the environmental authority received an award from the Union of Education, Science, and Sports Workers and from the local committee of the Cuban Workers’ Confederation.
The tributes concluded with remarks by Yosvani Julio Miranda Batista, Territorial Delegate of Citma, who referred to Cuba’s support for the Bolivarian Revolution of Venezuela in the face of what he described as hostile actions by the United States, and to the heroic sacrifice of the 32 Cubans who died fulfilling their duty in defense of that sister nation.
The official congratulated the scientists present and noted: “Within our network of institutions, we have young people who stand out for their dedication, working alongside more experienced professionals, as a sign of generational coexistence and a result of the work of the Revolution.”
He added that confidence in them remains unwavering, given their demonstrated capacity to help resolve the difficulties affecting the population, production, services, and national defense.
Translated by Linet Acuña Quilez