CATIE Launches Diploma Program on Sustainable Management for Economic Actors in Cuba

• Diploma is implemented by CATIE under the CIENPINOS project

More than 60 participants—including entrepreneurs, economic actors, community leaders and business support teams—began the Diploma in Sustainable Management for Economic Actors in Cuba (GESEC).

This academic training initiative seeks to strengthen productive linkages, improve organizational management and contribute to a more resilient and inclusive local economy. It also represents a key opportunity for Cuban economic actors to strengthen their projects, connect through networks and contribute to the sustainable development of their territories.

This diploma is part of the nature-based solutions component of the CIENPINOS project, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (ASDI) and implemented by CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) and the Indio Hatuey Experimental Station, in partnership with several Cuban universities.

Since November 17, 2025, and through April 2026, the diploma is being conducted in a blended format: it combines a primarily virtual training process with a final two-week intensive, in-person session in Cuba.

“It is expected that participants will strengthen their capacities in areas such as governance, business model design and validation, and finance, beginning in the first units with an overview of the Cuban business context and ecosystem, as well as opportunities for entrepreneurship—particularly in the provinces of Pinar del Río and Cienfuegos, where the CIENPINOS project is implemented,” explained Andrea Garay, agribusiness specialist at CATIE and coordinator of the diploma program.

This academic program features an international faculty and facilitators with extensive experience in Cuba and the region, who will guide the training process and support the development of applied projects in the territories.

Student Experiences: Motivations That Inspire Learning

The first weeks of the diploma have already generated enthusiasm among participants, who highlight the academic, professional and human value of this training process.

“This is an opportunity to develop skills and knowledge that respond to today’s labor market demands, in addition to strengthening one’s academic profile.” — Yurian Reyes Lugo, Bachelor in Accounting and Finance

“The diploma is a shared training space. The community of good practices cultivated and exchanged here will become pathways and horizons for entrepreneurship.” — Yuvan Contino Esquijerosa, Doctor in Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics

“One of my main motivations for enrolling is the possibility of strengthening local sustainability, since the diploma provides practical tools to apply sustainable management models and facilitates the creation of productive linkages.” — Yaquelin Hermiaga Cabrera, Specialist in the Local Agricultural Innovation System

“The diploma is designed to strengthen key competencies, providing tools that enhance professional growth. Its short-duration format allows for quick incorporation into the labor market without compromising training quality.” — Diadelys Carpio Quintana, Agronomist Engineer