Nelson Mandela’s visit to the University of Matanzas is remembered.

On the occasion of July 18th, instituted as Nelson Mandela International Day, an exhibition was inaugurated at the University of Matanzas dur to the visit of the admired anti-colonialist and anti-imperialist leader to the academy.

According to the institution’s Communication Department, the exhibition, which contains unpublished snapshots will be available until September, to commemorate the stay of South Africa’s first black president at the Matanzas University on July the 26th, 1991, during his visit to Cuba.

The review and graphic record of the presence of the political activist against apartheid at the then Higher Agro-industrial Institute Camilo Cienfuegos was published by the professor and journalist Luis Espino in El Universitario newspaper.

According to the note published on the center’s Web site, the architect Vega García, who served as rector at the time and participated in the reception of the president, recalled on the occasion «I especially remember his proverbial modesty , his generous face, his intelligent gaze and his precise and brief comments when exchanging with the African professors and students and his words of encouragement and stimulus to the work of the university, which was honored by his visit».

On November 9th, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly, in recognition of the former South African President’s contributions to culture, peace and freedom, proclaimed July 18th as Nelson Mandela International Day.

With text and photos published by Yasnier Hinojosa, head of the Communications Department. of Communication.

Written by Yovana Baró Álvarez.