Ho Chi Minh City launches fundraising drive to install solar power systems in Cuban schools

On Monday, the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations, in coordination with other partners, held a ceremony to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of the Moncada Barracks uprising in Cuba (July 26, 1953 – July 26, 2025).

During the event, the campaign to raise funds for building solar power systems in Cuban elementary schools was officially launched, in celebration of the upcoming 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Cuba (1960 – 2025).

Speaking at the event, Nguyen Loc Ha, vice-chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, said that this initiative is a vivid demonstration of the great and enduring friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and Cuba, a bond forged through many challenges.

Ha believes the Vietnam–Cuba relationship is a powerful symbol of international solidarity, built upon the sacrifices and efforts of many generations.

Today, while Vietnam has made significant strides on its development journey, Cuba is facing numerous challenges, particularly a severe energy crisis that deeply affects all aspects of life, including education.

In the spirit of mutual support and compassion, the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations and the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association of Ho Chi Minh City called on the Vietnamese community to contribute to the installation of solar power systems in Cuban schools.

“Supporting the construction of solar power systems in Cuban schools not only improves learning conditions for the students but also represents international solidarity and the Vietnamese people's empathy toward the Cuban people during difficult times," Ha stated.

“This is a concrete action to strengthen and deepen the special relationship between Vietnam and Cuba, a bond that has been tested and proven by hiítory."

Expressing gratitude for the compassion and humanitarian support from the Party, government, and people of Ho Chi Minh City, Ariadne Feo Labrada, Consul General of Cuba in Ho Chi Minh City, remarked that the event honored fundamental human values such as friendship, solidarity, and internationalism.

Over the years, Cuba and Vietnam have nurtured a special, sincere, and mutually supportive relationship across various fields. 

One of the most prominent aspects of this bond is their solidarity and people-to-people exchange, which have helped foster a natural and growing friendship between the two nations.

Labrada expressed deep appreciation for Vietnam’s continuous support, especially during Cuba’s current difficult period.

On behalf of the Cuban Party, government, and people, she thanked the business community, friends of Cuba, especially the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee, administration, Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee, the Union of Friendship Organizations, and the Vietnam–Cuba Friendship Association for initiating such a meaningful and humanitarian campaign that would bring lasting value to Cuban children.

She expressed confidence that the relationship between Cuba and Vietnam will remain a shining example for international relations.

Running until November 30, the fundraising campaign is jointly organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations, the municipal Department of Culture and Sports, and several local media agencies.

At the launch event, the organizing committee received donations amounting to over VND1.6 billion (US$61,021) from 12 organizations, businesses, and philanthropists.