Havana, July 31 (RHC)-- Cuba's 'Manuel Fajardo' University of Physical Culture and Sports Sciences (UCCFD) was recognized Monday in Argentina with the 'Eureka 2023' World Award in the category of Academic Excellence.

In the context of the VII International Congress on Disability, in the northern province of Chaco, this institution was awarded together with others from Paraguay and Mexico for its training and education in favor of humanity and the exercise of inclusive practices.

Organizations and professionals from Spain, Peru and Argentina, among other countries, were also honored.

In a recorded message, the rector of the Cuban center, Silvano Merced, expressed his gratitude for the award and assured that it came at a special moment, since the University will celebrate its 50th anniversary in October.

"For us it has a high significance because it makes the work of our institution visible at an international level and is in line with the efforts made and our commitment to global education, especially in the area of physical activity and sports sciences," he said.

In conversation with Prensa Latina news agency, Merced recalled that nearly 90 percent of the Caribbean country's Olympic champions came out of the UCCFD classrooms.

"We share this award with the rest of the higher education centers and with the Faculties of Physical Culture throughout Cuba," he added.

The Eureka Awards are given every year by the World Council of University Academics and Researchers to individuals and entities that excel in professional practice and good practices in favor of humanity.

Cuba was recognized on multiple occasions and among the award-winning personalities are the historic leader of the Revolution Fidel Castro (1926-2016); the intellectual, essayist and doctor in Historical Sciences, Eusebio Leal (1942-2020); and the Olympic champion, Alberto Juantorena.