According to the provincial Department of Health spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethwane, the province had recruited 76 students to study medicine in the Caribbean nation. He says as 56 students head back home for good, 20 of them remain abroad and continue with their studies. Lekgethwane says the department plans to further recruit 15 prospective medical students in the province to study in Cuba. 

OFM News previously reported that students criticised the department for failing to help and address their plight, which includes struggles with food, toiletries and stipends, amongst others.

However, Lekgethwane also told OFM News in reply to these allegations, that the Provincial Health Department is taking measures to address these issues following complaints from students in Cuba.

He said due to the embargo or blockade imposed by the United States (US) on the Caribbean country, transferring funds to the Embassy has become an insurmountable challenge and hence the students' stipends were delayed. Lekgethwane added that the department is aware of the current conditions in Cuba, which have led to the country running short of essential supplies.

OFM News