On 18th June, the 2025 National Prize for Cultural Research was awarded to Dr. Isabel Monal Rodríguez, a distinguished Cuban intellectual and academic, in recognition of her contributions to philosophical thought, cultural life, and revolutionary institutional development in the country.

The news emerged via the Uneac (Cuban Writers and Artists Union) X account, which highlighted her «decisive role in advancing national culture» through work that has made her «a key figure in shaping Cuban cultural policy».

Founder and director of Cuba’s National Theatre, and recipient of the 1998 National Prize for Social and Humanistic Sciences among numerous honours, the awardee has received congratulatory messages on social media from personalities and institutions familiar with her invaluable dedication.

The Institute of Philosophy – where she holds the title of Emeritus Researcher – stated on its Facebook profile: «With great pride, we celebrate Dr. Isabel Monal’s award! Her tireless work, academic rigour and profound passion for research have left an indelible mark. This prize is a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and exceptional contribution to knowledge. Congratulations!»

A Hero of the Republic of Cuba and Honorary Member of the Cuban Society of Philosophical Research, Monal was asked during her dedication at the 2024 Havana International Book Fair whether she considered herself a woman of science or culture. She replied to Granma newspaper:

«It never occurred to me to separate these. I have devoted my life to the Revolution and, within it, to culture in its broadest sense, and to the development of Social Sciences and Philosophy – which for me is inseparable from cultural work. The concept of culture holds polysemy; one needn’t define it restrictively. Those engaged in philosophy understand these two planes can coexist using the same terminology, provided the discourse remains clear.»