The "Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca" University of Pinar del Río finds itself embroiled in a significant public scandal after an intimate video, recorded on campus grounds, circulated widely on social media platforms.
Within hours of its viral spread, the university's administration responded swiftly by announcing the permanent expulsion of those involved from the higher education system.
According to an official statement posted on Facebook, Dr. C. Yorki Mayor Hernández, the university's rector, confirmed the immediate dismissal of the individuals concerned. He emphasized that the actions constituted a severe breach of professional ethics, moral integrity, and the dignity expected of university faculty.
The statement highlighted that such conduct is "clearly incompatible with the formative and exemplary role of an educator."
The rector insisted that Pinar del Río University will not allow "isolated and irresponsible actions to tarnish the honorable work" of the majority of its faculty and researchers, stressing that the institution's priority is to ensure a safe and trustworthy environment for students.
The controversy erupted after a compromising video, reportedly depicting an intimate homosexual encounter between two men at the university, began circulating online. Independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada identified the individuals involved as Alie Pérez Véliz, a high-ranking academic official linked to the Faculty of Humanities, and another professor from the Law department.
It is alleged that the video was filmed by the individuals themselves inside a university classroom, with a portrait of Fidel Castro and several computers visible in the background.
According to accounts referenced by Mayeta Labrada, the implicated official held significant responsibilities within the academic structure.
Former students and sources connected to the university claimed that rumors of inappropriate behavior within the department had been circulating for months, and similar disciplinary actions had been taken against other professors over the past year.
An anonymous source interviewed by the journalist remarked, "I feel sorry for his children, but he was an uncomfortable presence within the University," highlighting the personal and professional impact of the case within the academic community.
The rector's statement refrained from naming individuals but confirmed that proper protocols and internal regulations were followed in executing the final separation from the educational system.
The university administration stressed that the decision was made to maintain public trust and ensure the peace of the student community.
The incident has sparked a heated debate on social media, where users are questioning not only the professors' conduct but also the control and oversight mechanisms within Cuban universities.
Critics point out the contradiction between the government's official stance on values and revolutionary morality and the reality exposed by incidents like this.
Institutionally, the scandal underscores the urgent need for clear protocols, transparency, and effective protection of educational spaces, especially when incidents occur within classrooms that should serve as places of learning rather than settings for such behavior.
Meanwhile, Pinar del Río University is striving to mitigate the damage to its public image, reaffirming its commitment to ethics, faculty exemplarity, and student welfare amid a controversy that continues to resonate nationwide.
Implications of the Pinar del Río University Scandal
What actions did the university take following the scandal?
The university expelled the individuals involved from the higher education system and emphasized the breach of professional ethics and integrity.
How did the scandal become public?
The scandal became public after a video recorded on campus grounds went viral on social media, leading to widespread attention and debate.
What has been the reaction within the academic community?
The academic community has been influenced personally and professionally, with some expressing regret for the individuals' families while acknowledging discomfort with the situation.