‘I am proud to have Ninewells hospital, one of Europe’s largest teaching hospitals, in my constituency and was therefore very happy to accept the invitation to visit the Latin American School of Medicine which is a major international medical school.’

‘The Latin American School of Medicine takes students from Cuba and all over the world, particularly Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa and even the USA, these students are normally from the poorest communities who whilst achieving the entry requirements, would otherwise be unable to afford to study medicine.’

‘Students are not required to pay for tuition, textbooks, accommodation or food; however, in return they must work as a doctor in Cuba for 4 years following their graduation. After which, far from obliging their graduates to stay in Cuba, they are encouraged, to return to practice medicine in their own communities, which often have little access to medical services.’

Mr McGovern added;

‘I was very impressed with the high quality of the teaching and facilities at the Latin American School of Medicine. As it has recently been reported in the international press, Cuba’s health service is world-class and equal or better than health services in the developed world and delivered on less than a fraction of the budgets.’

Mr McGovern was also invited to visit Angela Landa primary school whilst in Havana. After his visit Mr McGovern said;

‘I really enjoyed my visit to Angela Landa primary school. The teachers and children were very kind and let my wife Norma and I into their classrooms to listen to their lessons and talk with them. I learnt that class sizes in Cuba are very well monitored, with no more than twenty children allowed in one class, which is exceptional.’

‘From my experience in Havana, I think there is a great deal developed countries like our own can learn from the dedication and absolute priority given to education and the  health service in Cuba.’