Passing of Pinar del Río University Professor with Longstanding Academic Career

The University of Pinar del Río "Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca" expressed its sorrow on Saturday over the death of Professor Mayra Carmona González, a prominent figure in the field of Economic Sciences at the institution, through a heartfelt message on their official Facebook page.

The announcement, made by the university itself, did not disclose the cause or exact date of her passing. However, it was shared publicly, accompanied by two photos of the professor, and tagged the Ministry of Higher Education in Cuba, the university's rector Yorki Mayor Hernández, and official Saray Núñez González.

Distinguished Academic Career

With a degree in Economics, Carmona González dedicated decades to academic and administrative roles at the University of Pinar del Río. She successively held positions as Head of the Department of Accounting and Finance, Academic Vice Dean, Dean of the Faculty of Economic Sciences, and Vice Rector at the university.

Later, she served as Head of the Rector’s Advisory Group and, in her last known position, as Director of the Quality Management Office. She earned her Doctorate in Economic and Business Sciences from the University of Huelva, Spain, focusing her thesis on internal management audits with a particular emphasis on the Cuban context.

A Legacy of Dedication

The institutional message emphasized that "her departure leaves a tremendous void in our classrooms and in the hearts of those who had the privilege of sharing her passion for teaching and her unwavering commitment to educating generations of professionals."

The university extended condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and students, concluding its statement with, "Farewell, Professor Mayra. We will remember you with deep affection and gratitude."

Challenging Times for Cuban Universities

Carmona González's passing adds to a series of recent losses within the Cuban academic community. Earlier in February, the Central University "Marta Abreu" of Las Villas mourned the loss of a distinguished emeritus professor, and in June of the previous year, the University of Guantánamo also bid farewell to a notable faculty member.

This loss occurs amidst a significant crisis facing Cuban universities. In January, the University of Pinar del Río found itself embroiled in controversy when its rector announced the expulsion of two professors over the recording of a private video on university premises.

Since its founding in 1972, the institution has graduated over 11,000 undergraduate students. The university now bids farewell to one of its most influential academics, who held numerous leadership positions within its halls and administrative structures.