The Cuban regime has reinstated the Pioneer Action Forces (FAPI) in Santiago de Cuba, aiming to engage children in economic and social activities during their summer break. Throughout July and August, youngsters are expected to work in factories, food processing centers, and urban gardens, as reported by the local television station TurquinoTevé.
Under the guise of instilling "values of work responsibility," children are required to spend part of their vacation working. "They have the opportunity to voluntarily donate a portion of their vacation to contribute to economic development. They can do this in factories, some food processing centers, and more, particularly within the community," an educator highlighted during an interview.
Students are also involved in cleaning activities at schools and participating in urban gardening, among other tasks. "We participate in various activities, like helping to fix the school, improving the study materials, and working in the urban garden to make it look beautiful," a child shared with the press.
Amidst rising inflation, worsening economic crisis, and frequent power outages, the regime aims to instill social awareness in children by involving them in school-related and community activities during the summer. Last year, the government "revived" this old method, which once inspired children, adolescents, and young people to engage in initiatives promoting community development and active participation in the country's economic and social life.
In the past, FAPI would take children to nearby economic entities to assist with cleaning areas, beautifying gardens, recycling raw materials, and other similar tasks. The First Secretary of the Union of Young Communists (UJC) in the province stated in the summer of 2024 that the idea is for children and young people to combine recreational activities with "supporting productive tasks, fostering social growth in neighborhoods and communities in transformation, as well as in their own residential areas."
Understanding the Impact of FAPI on Cuban Children
What is the purpose of the Pioneer Action Forces (FAPI) in Cuba?
The Pioneer Action Forces (FAPI) aim to engage children in economic and social activities to instill work responsibility and contribute to community development during their summer break.
How are children expected to contribute during their summer break in Santiago de Cuba?
Children are encouraged to work in factories, food processing centers, and urban gardens, as well as participate in school cleanup and community beautification projects.
Why is the Cuban government involving children in work during the summer?
The government seeks to instill social awareness and responsibility in children, encouraging them to contribute to the economy and community development amid economic challenges.