(Havana, CUBA) – Today Mayor Muriel Bowser toured the University of Havana, the oldest university in Cuba, to learn how the country’s literacy, graduation rates, and university and college retention rates remain consistently high. The tour was led by University of Havana’s Rector Dr. Gustavo Cobreiro Suárez.
“Washington, DC has seen great gains in our education system,” said Mayor Bowser. “Given Cuba’s emphasis on a strong education, I know there’s a lot we can learn from each other. The District will continue to draw on best practices from around the globe as we close the achievement gap and prepare the next generation for the jobs of tomorrow.”
Mayor Bowser was joined on the university visit by DC Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson, representatives from American and Howard University’s Business Schools, and other members of the exploratory mission delegation.
Other topics of discussion included commitments to share educational attainment and retention information and results. An invitation was also extended to Cuban officials to visit DC Public Schools in the near future.
The visit to the University of Havana is part of an exploratory mission from February 20-25th led by the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Bowser is laying the groundwork for future relationships and potential economic and cultural opportunities with Cuba. The mission also serves as a platform for the regional delegation to learn best practices and showcase the Washington metropolitan area’s strengths in transportation, tourism, health, and education.