Cuba and Russia expand cooperation in railway training

HAVANA, Cuba, November 7 (ACN) Eduardo Rodriguez Davila, Cuban Minister of Transportation, acknowledged today the crucial role played by the intergovernmental agreement between his country and the Russian Federation in training the next generation of engineers who will drive the development of Cuba's railways.

Each year, Russia offers different scholarships which, through the Cuban Railway Company and under the guidance of the Ministry of Higher Education, are allocated to a single program, Rodriguez Davila explained on his Facebook profile.

He emphasized that the objective of this program is clear and strategic: to fulfill the demand for specialists in railway engineering, disciplines that, due to their specific nature, are not taught within the country.

This program constitutes a strategic commitment and an investment in the future, the minister stated, adding that from this new generation of professionals being trained in Russian classrooms and laboratories, it is expected that, in the medium term, an infusion of young talent with high-level preparation will be achieved.

Currently, 98 young people are being trained in various specialties, including railway transport operations, rolling stock, railway tracks, automation and telemechanics, as well as railway telecommunications, all linked to the needs of the national system.

The training takes place at the Russian University of Transport and the Emperor Alexander I State University of Railways in St. Petersburg, preceded by a year dedicated to the Russian language and basic subjects.

Rodriguez Davila pointed out that to ensure their continued participation in the program, the students receive combined financial support: a Russian stipend and Cuban financial aid, which covers lodging, food, winter clothing, and immigration services.

In addition to the university students, 57 railway system employees are pursuing master's degrees in specific fields, and starting in 2026, the inclusion of managers and specialists in short professional development courses and internships is planned.