CONGRESO UNIVERSIDAD 2026
15th International Congress on Higher Education, University 2026

February
9 – 13, 2026
LEHMAN IN THE PROVINCES
FLIGHTS LEAVE MIAMI ON FEBRUARY 8, 2026
JANUARY 8 - 18, 2026
ABOUT THE 15TH INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF HIGHER EDUCATION
The Ministry of Higher Education of Cuba, in collaboration with Cuban universities, is pleased to invite you to the 15th International Congress on Higher Education, University 2026, to be held in Havana from February 9 to 13, 2026. This event will be hosted under the theme: “Innovation and Social Transformation: Higher Education’s Commitment to Sustainable and Inclusive Development.”
In alignment with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Higher Education Institutions play a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These institutions are critical in shaping citizens capable of lifelong learning and empowering them to engage actively in safeguarding the planet and humanity. Universities serve as key drivers of social change and sustainable development by educating and mobilizing their communities.
This essential responsibility calls for the Ministry of Higher Education to continuously strengthen its relevance, efficiency, and effectiveness in its processes. It also demands a commitment to inclusive practices that foster social transformation across all dimensions: economic, socio-cultural, and environmental. Higher education is not only a public and social good but also a universal human right, and a responsibility of states to uphold.
With these principles in mind and recognizing the transformative power of Higher Education in fostering innovation and social change, we invite you to join us in this historic event. The 15th edition of the Congress will also celebrate two significant milestones: the 50th anniversary of the Ministry of Higher Education of Cuba and its network of institutions.
This Congress will offer a space for continued dialogue and reflection on the critical role of higher education in driving sustainable and inclusive development. We look forward to your participation in this important event.
- Symposium 1: “Higher Education and the Challenges for the Future and Integration in the Region”
- Symposium 2: “Quality Education and its Sustainability in Postgraduate Management and Human Capital”
- Symposium 3: “University Extension, Commitment, and Social Transformation for Sustainable Development”
- Symposium 4: “Training Competent Professionals from an Equitable and Inclusive Perspective for Sustainable Development”
- Symposium 5: “University, Knowledge, and Innovation for Sustainable Development”
- Symposium 6: “University-Business Relationship: A Driving Force for Science, Innovation, Relevance of Higher Education, and Sustainable Development”
- In-person: Traditional format with live presentations and discussions.
- Virtual: A hybrid of synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous participation. Virtual presentations can be submitted as pre-recorded videos (max 10 minutes). A virtual forum will be open for debates and discussions, allowing participation from both in-person and remote attendees.
The best papers will be selected for editorial review and potential publication in the Congress University Journal. If invited, authors will receive instructions, deadlines, and submission templates for the full article. The full article will undergo a peer review process for publication in the journal.

IMPORTANT DATES
- Abstract Deadline – September 8, 2025
- Final Payment Deadline - January 1, 2026
- Reception of Full Text for Publication – November 17, 2025
- Depart for Cuba – February 8, 2026
- Main Conference Begins - February 9, 2026
- Main Conference Ends - February 13, 2026
- Departure back to U.S. – February 14, 2026
This Event Takes Place in Spanish with English translation and interpretation.
Attending the 15th International Congress on Higher Education, University 2026 in Havana offers a unique and invaluable opportunity for university leaders and professors to engage in transformative discussions while experiencing Cuba’s rich cultural and intellectual landscape. Here are key reasons why traveling to Havana for this congress is essential:
- Engage with Global Experts: The congress brings together academics, researchers, and leaders from around the world, providing an unparalleled platform for networking and exchanging ideas on higher education, innovation, and sustainable development.
- Experience Cuba’s Educational Model: Cuba’s education system is renowned for its commitment to social equity and inclusion. Attendees will gain first-hand insights into Cuba’s innovative approaches to education, which can inform and inspire practices in their own institutions.
- Contribute to Global Dialogue: This congress is a vital space for dialogue on the future of higher education and its role in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Your participation helps shape the global conversation on how education can drive social transformation.
- Immerse in Cuban Culture: Beyond academic discussions, the congress offers the chance to experience Havana’s rich history, music, art, and cuisine. This cultural immersion provides a holistic and enriching experience, blending intellectual exchange with a deep connection to the local culture.
- Commemorate Historic Milestones: The congress also celebrates significant anniversaries, including the 50th anniversary of the Ministry of Higher Education of Cuba Attending this congress allows you to be part of these landmark events, which reflect Cuba’s long-standing commitment to education and social justice.
Building global partnerships is essential for fostering collaboration, innovation, and mutual growth in the field of higher education. Here’s why these partnerships are crucial:
- Collaborative Solutions to Global Challenges: Higher education institutions worldwide face common challenges such as sustainable development, social inclusion, and the need for innovation. By building partnerships with international colleagues, you can collaboratively explore solutions, share best practices, and implement strategies that address these challenges on a global scale.
- Expanding Research and Academic Networks: Partnerships foster opportunities for joint research, academic exchanges, and collaboration on projects that can have a significant impact. By connecting with other university leaders and researchers, you can expand your network, enhance academic opportunities, and leverage diverse expertise to enrich your institution’s offerings.
- Enhancing Institutional Growth: Building relationships with international institutions can open doors to new programs, funding opportunities, and educational initiatives. These collaborations can lead to shared resources, better educational practices, and enhanced global visibility for your institution.
- Cultural and Knowledge Exchange: The congress provides an ideal platform for cultural and knowledge exchange. By engaging with academics from different parts of the world, you gain diverse perspectives that can influence your teaching, research, and leadership practices, and contribute to the overall transformation of your institution.
- Promoting Inclusivity and Global Citizenship: Establishing global partnerships helps foster inclusivity, solidarity, and mutual respect across borders. By collaborating with colleagues from different cultures and regions, you contribute to building a more inclusive and globally aware academic community that is better equipped to address the complex issues facing the world today.
We have established two types of accommodation options. Delegates will stay at the Hotel Grand Aston located along the famous malecon of Havana in Vedado.
Universidad 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Cuba’s rich cultural heritage while advancing your professional goals. As you attend the congress in Havana, you will experience a city steeped in history, from the colonial architecture of Old Havana to the iconic Malecón.
Cuba’s unique blend of revolutionary history, vibrant arts, and music, including son, salsa, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, reflects the island’s dynamic cultural landscape. You will also have the opportunity to explore Cuban cuisine, which blends African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, providing an authentic taste of Cuban creativity.
Beyond cultural exploration, the congress allows you to connect with Cuban academics and leaders, offering valuable insights into Cuba’s approach to education, sustainable development, and social transformation. This immersive experience will enhance your understanding of the role of higher education in fostering global change.
Submission and Review Process:
All works will be reviewed by the Scientific Committee of each symposium. The Committee will determine the format of the presentation: panel, roundtable, paper presentation, debate workshop, or poster. Accepted works will be published in the Congress Proceedings with an ISBN in digital format and hosted on a preprint server. Authors can notify the Scientific Committee if they wish to withdraw their work from the proceedings.
Guidelines for Manuscript Submission:
- Originality: Works must be original and not under review for any other conference or publication.
- Maximum Length: 10 pages, including title, abstract, keywords, body of the paper, references, and annexes (tables and figures).
- Formatting:
- Microsoft Word format, Verdana font, size 10, 1.5 line spacing
- Letter-size paper (8 ½ x 11″ or 21.59 x 27.94 cm) with 2.5 cm margins
- Paragraph alignment: Justified, no indents, tabs, or other design attributes.
- Required Elements:
- Title (in uppercase, no more than 15 words)
- Author(s) and co-author(s) with email addresses (maximum of three authors, more only in exceptional cases)
- Institution and country of authors/co-authors
- Abstract (maximum 250 words)
- Keywords
- The title, abstract, and keywords must be in the same language as the work. For works in Spanish and Portuguese, include an English translation of these elements. Works in English should include a Spanish translation.
- Work text: Introduction, clear objectives, development with sections, conclusions, bibliographic references, and annexes (tables, figures).
- Allow up to six figures/tables and a minimum of 10 references, with a maximum of 15 references.
- Follow APA 7th edition citation style.
To submit your work, please follow the Congress guidelines. Submissions are managed through the event’s platform at https://www.congresouniversidad.cu. Templates for submitting papers and presentations in Word or LaTeX format can be downloaded from the platform.
The Ministry of Higher Education of Cuba (MES), established in 1976, was created with the vision of driving social transformation through education. The Ministry plays a pivotal role in shaping Cuba’s educational landscape and, with a deep commitment to inclusivity, equity, and academic excellence, has fostered an education system that is internationally recognized for its quality, accessibility, and strong emphasis on social justice.
The Ministry of Higher Education of Cuba oversees the country’s network of universities, which are dedicated to advancing research, innovation, and the development of human capital that supports both local and global sustainable development goals. As a key driver of Cuba’s higher education policy, the MES works closely with international academic institutions, research organizations, and government bodies to promote academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the advancement of critical global challenges such as sustainability, social inclusion, and economic development.
Hosting the 15th International Congress on Higher Education represents a unique opportunity for the Ministry to showcase its achievements and engage with global partners in the ongoing quest for sustainable and inclusive higher education. With its extensive experience in organizing academic and research-oriented events, the MES will ensure that this congress provides a platform for insightful discussions, collaboration, and the sharing of innovative practices.
The Ministry’s leadership in higher education, combined with Cuba’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to educational excellence, guarantees that the congress will be an unforgettable and enriching experience for all participants.
The MES’s dedication to education as a public good, a human right, and a driver of societal transformation makes it the ideal host for this significant event. By bringing together academics, researchers, and university leaders from across the world, Cuba’s Ministry of Higher Education reaffirms its commitment to advancing global education and promoting sustainable development for all.
REGISTER NOW
Delegates can participate in Universidad 2026 either in-person or virtually. There are also discounted rates for students. Undergraduate students from the United States must be eligible for credit from their home institution to participate in-person.
CONGRESS QUESTIONS?
If you have additional questions or concerns about the Congress or the registration process, you can send an email to the Congress Executive Secretary at secejecutiva@congresouniversidad.cu. Kindly include your insitution name, home country, and full contact information.TRAVEL PROGRAM FOR US DELEGATES
Civitas Global Educational Services offers a travel program for all delegates from the United States looking to participate in compliance with the US Department of Treasury Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Civitas GES has been building Cuba-US partnerships and facilitating programs for US institutions since 2014. Our travel program include meaningful exchanges within the community to keep you in compliance with general license requirements. All US delegates will have the support of our resident coordinators through out the experience.
If you would like to run your travel program through us, complete the form below to be contacted. We offer group rates for delegations of 5 or more from the same institution.
$3,200.00*
USD
DELEGATES - EARLYBIRD FEE
*AIRFARE NOT INCLUDED

Your travel programs include:
- Cuba Entry Visa
- Workshop Registration Fee
- Access to All Program Events and Activities
- Access to Pre-Conference Sessions
- Ground Transportation to and From Cuban Airports
- Welcome Dinner for International Delegates
- 6-Nights Stay in Private or Hotel Accommodations
- Breakfast Included Each Morning
- Cuba Health and Repatriation Insurance
- English Speaking Guides
Logistical services for US travelers are provided by Civitas Global Educational Services in full compliance with the United States Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control. Click here to see the full OFAC Regulations related to travel to Cuba.
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To Educate is to Free - Jose Martí
If you are interested in Civitas GES organizing your travel program, kindly complete the form below.

All invoicing and payments are processed by Squareup.com. All initial deposits for this program are non-refundable. The deposit counts towards the full cost of the program. Click here to view our full terms and conditions.