MESCyT grants 110 national scholarships to UNICDA students with a focus on STEM careers

The Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) celebrates the awarding of 110 national scholarships granted by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCyT) to students who will pursue programs at the higher technical level, bachelor’s degrees, engineering, and master’s degrees, with a special focus on STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

During the event, the rector of UNICDA, Ing. Ramón Sosa, positively valued this interinstitutional collaboration, highlighting: “This alliance strengthens academic training and opens new opportunities for more young Dominicans to have access to quality higher education in key areas for the country’s development.”

The event was attended by MESCyT authorities representing the minister, Dr. Franklin García Fermín. The following were present at the head table: Ing. Ramón Sosa, Rector of UNICDA; Dra. Josefina Pepín, Academic Vice-Rector; Ing. Edwin Salazar, Director of Registration; Mr. Julian Sosa, Director of Communications for MESCyT; and Mrs. Lanny Portorreal, Head of National Scholarships for MESCyT.

In her remarks, Mrs. Lanny Portorreal highlighted the importance of these scholarships as a driver of development and social mobility, as well as the relevance of programs aligned with the demands of the national productive sector: “Thousands of young Dominicans have found in these opportunities a path to strengthen their professional training and their ability to contribute to the country.”

It was also recalled that, since the beginning of President Luis Abinader’s administration, MESCyT has awarded more than 100,000 scholarships, both national and international, prioritizing young people in vulnerable conditions.

The activity was organized by the Directorate of National Scholarships, headed by Mrs. Portorreal, who emphasized that all the beneficiary students were selected after strictly complying with the requirements established by the program.

Academic areas in which the scholars will develop:

Higher Technical Level: Software Development

Undergraduate Careers: Business Administration, Tourism and Hotel Business Management, Artistic Education, Foreign Languages (English) Mention Education, Software Engineering, Cybersecurity Engineering, Data Science Engineering

Postgraduate Programs: Master’s in Data Science and Big Data, Master’s in Teaching and Management of Educational Technology, Master’s in Teaching English as a Foreign Language

The Domínico Americano University reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, inclusion, and national development, and celebrates this significant investment in young Dominican talent.

UNICDA reaffirms its commitment to sustainable higher education

As part of the celebration of the 45th anniversary of the Dominican Association of University Presidents (ADRU), the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) reaffirmed its commitment to higher education grounded in sustainability, inclusion, and social responsibility.

The 2nd ADRU International Congress 2025 was held on August 21 and 22 at the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henríquez Ureña (UNPHU).

UNICDA was represented by its Rector, Eng. Ramón Sosa, and its Academic Vice-Rector, Dr. Josefina Pepín, who actively participated in this important space for reflection and collective development.

Under the theme “Higher Education and Sustainability: New Paradigms for Social and Environmental Responsibility,” the congress brought together more than 30 higher education institutions, along with international organizations, national authorities, and renowned experts in the field. Among the speakers, Dr. François Vallaeys stood out as a global reference in University Social Responsibility.

UNICDA extends its congratulations to ADRU for this meaningful commemoration and highly values the creation of spaces that promote dialogue, the exchange of best practices, and the strengthening of strategic alliances, with the aim of transforming the higher education system in the Dominican Republic and effectively responding to global challenges.

UNICDA and the Milwaukee Brewers MLB make a donation of school supplies in San Antonio de Guerra

The UNICDA (Dominican American University), in collaboration with the sports organization Milwaukee Brewers MLB, held a school supply donation event at the Padres de la Patria Educational Center, located in the Monte de los Olivos sector, in San Antonio de Guerra. This initiative, driven by UNICDA’s Social Outreach and Extension Department, benefited elementary school students, who received essential materials for the start of the school year.

Thanks to the donations from our community, the Milwaukee Brewers MLB team, and the valuable collaborative work of the Social Outreach and Extension Department, the Cultural Directorate, and Manpower, 200 elementary students benefited from a day filled with empathy, commitment, and hope.

During the event, students, teachers, and community representatives shared an experience marked by solidarity, commitment, and the delivery of human value. The event also had the special participation of young prospects from the academy, who interacted with the children and reinforced the message of self-improvement and teamwork.

This act of solidarity reaffirms UNICDA’s commitment to the social and educational development of the country’s most vulnerable communities. Thanks to the support of everyone involved, they were able to positively influence the lives of these students.

UNICDA holds successful First Aid Training Seminar in partnership with IARA Sport International RD

Reaffirming its commitment to the comprehensive and practical training of its students, the Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) successfully held a First Aid Training Seminar last Saturday in collaboration with IARA Sport International RD.

During this training session, students from the Engineering and Tourism programs actively participated in theoretical and practical sessions aimed at developing essential skills for immediate care in emergency situations.

The topics covered included the fundamental principles of first aid, such as P.A.S. protocol (Protect, Alert, and Support), rapid victim assessment, and the key role of the first responder. In addition, the seminar delved into vital signs assessment using the A.B.C. method (A: Airway, B: Breathing, C: Circulation), as well as managing altered states of consciousness, airway obstruction maneuvers (such as the Heimlich maneuver), and the application of CPR and basic life support techniques for adults and children.

The seminar also covered initial treatment for wounds, hemorrhages, shock, fractures, sprains, dislocations, hypothermia, hyperthermia, stings, and the safe removal of foreign objects.

The event culminated with supervised practices and a general simulation, allowing participants to apply their acquired knowledge in simulated scenarios, thereby strengthening their ability to act effectively, quickly, and safely in real emergencies.

With this initiative, UNICDA continues to invest in quality education that enhances the academic and personal growth of its student community, offering experiences that transform and enrich the professional profiles of its students and faculty.

UNICDA Students Conclude Their Supervised Teaching Internship VI for the Bachelor’s in English with a Focus on Teaching

With enthusiasm and commitment, senior students of the Bachelor’s in English with a Focus on Teaching program at the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) concluded their Supervised Teaching Internship VI, held at the Teacher Development Center (TDC) under the motto: “Each practice, a step towards teaching excellence.”

During this event, the future teachers presented their final project, which consisted of a comprehensive summary of the practices they had completed since the beginning of their program. The activity also included research presentations focused on the development of vocabulary, grammar, and logical thinking in second-grade students.

As part of the event, thematic workshops were also held, focusing on key aspects of the teaching-learning process, such as learning styles, classroom management, attention, and cognitive processes applied to English instruction.

The event was attended by Mrs. Ligia Henríquez, M.A., Education Program Coordinator, Mrs. Virginia Solimán, M.A., Supervised Internship Coordinator, and the STP VI teacher, Solangel Meléndez, M.Ed., as well as family and friends of the participating students.

This closing event marks the end of a formative process that spanned teaching internships I through VI, reflecting UNICDA’s commitment to training highly qualified educators who are passionate about teaching.

“Each practice represents a firm step toward teaching excellence,” highlighted the event organizers.

The institution thanks everyone involved for making this formative experience possible, which strengthens the quality of education in the country.

UNICDA Participates in the 1st Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory of Latin America and the Caribbean

From July 14 to 16, the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) had the honor of participating in the 1st Regional Congress of the Tourism Law Observatory of Latin America and the Caribbean, with the theme “Legal Perspectives for Sustainable Tourism,” held at The Westin Punta Cana Resort & Club.

With great pride, UNICDA was represented by both faculty and students, demonstrating its commitment to academic training linked to the sustainable development of tourism in the region. The university was represented at this important event by Alejandra Brunet, Coordinator of the Tourism program; professor Ana Vanesa Florian; and students Perla Liranzo and Carlenny Díaz, from the Tourism and Hospitality program.

The congress was organized by UN Tourism, Grupo Puntacana, and Quiroz Advisors – QA Legal, and brought together legal professionals, private sector representatives, and government authorities. During the congress, fundamental topics were addressed, such as best practices in tourism regulation and sustainability, the challenges of short-term tourism rentals, the adaptation of tourist spaces to ISO standards on accessibility, and green investments in strategic sectors like real estate, hospitality, and banking.

These types of events strengthen the link between academia, the private sector, and government bodies, while also reinforcing UNICDA’s commitment to higher education aimed at training professionals who will lead responsible, sustainable, and inclusive tourism.

We thank the organizers for their hospitality and for creating a space for dialogue and exchange that undoubtedly enriches the academic and professional vision of our students and faculty.

UNICDA awards scholarships to young people who will begin their studies in technology-related fields

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – July 30, 2025
The Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) celebrated the awarding of its UNICDA Excellence 2025 scholarships, recognizing the high academic performance of outstanding high school students. The event took place in the Exhibition Hall of the Earl R. Threan Administrative Building on campus, with the participation of university authorities, the families of the scholarship recipients, and members of the academic community.

This year, the scholarships were awarded to three young women who will begin their university studies in technology and innovation-related fields:

Amy Pérez Mejía, Cybersecurity Engineering

Paula Mabel Martínez Abreu, Data Science Engineering

Katia Nathaly Pujols Almánzar, Software Engineering

These scholarships not only reflect UNICDA’s commitment to academic excellence but also its dedication to preparing professionals in high-demand fields. The new additions of Cybersecurity Engineering and Data Science Engineering, along with the already well-established and highly sought-after Software Engineering program, demonstrate this strategic vision focused on innovation and training in key areas for the country’s development.

During the ceremony, the Academic Vice-Rector, Dr. Josefina Pepín, gave the welcoming remarks, highlighting the merit and dedication of the scholarship recipients. Lisanna E. Montero Montán, a Business Administration student and a 2024 scholarship recipient, also addressed the attendees, sharing her testimony and motivating this year’s recipients to continue pursuing their academic goals.

The closing remarks were delivered by the Rector of UNICDA, Ing. Ramón Sosa, who reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to educating ethical, competent professionals dedicated to national development. “Through initiatives like UNICDA Excellence, we help pave the way for the country’s young talent, especially in high-impact areas like technology,” he stated.

The awarding of these scholarships strengthens the bond between UNICDA and the student community while fostering the personal and professional growth of high-potential young people. The university continues to position itself as a place of educational excellence, innovation, and comprehensive training, with programs adapted to a globalized environment and the needs of the current job market.

UNICDA’s Volunteer Program visits the San Francisco de Asís Nursing Home in honor of Father’s Day

In commemoration of Father’s Day, the UNICDA Volunteer Group, along with the Department of Social Outreach and Extension of the Domínico Americano University (UNICDA), made a heartfelt visit to the San Francisco de Asís Nursing Home. The goal was to spend a morning full of affection, joy, and solidarity with the elderly residents.

The activity, which is part of the university’s social responsibility initiatives and the volunteer group’s promotion of core values, allowed students to genuinely connect with the residents. This was achieved through activities like singing, dancing, and conversations filled with anecdotes and wisdom.

During the visit, there were moments of great emotion and closeness. The smiles and warm hugs reflected the positive impact of the visit on both the residents and the volunteers.

“We are leaving with our hearts full,” several students shared. They valued the experience as an opportunity for personal and human growth, strengthening their commitment to a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Through initiatives like this, UNICDA continues to promote a comprehensive education that goes beyond the classroom, encouraging its students to build a supportive university community that is aware of and committed to its surroundings.

The Dominican American Cultural Institute celebrated the Independence of the United States with a Farmers Market

On Wednesday, July 3rd, we held a Farmers Market to commemorate the Independence Day of the United States. The event was open to our entire educational community and welcomed staff members, students, teachers, and visitors, all of whom enjoyed a unique day in true farmer style.

During the celebration, the main campus of our institution transformed into a vibrant space filled with music, recreational activities, traditional food, vendor stations, and a lively, positive atmosphere. The stars of the day were various local entrepreneurs who joined the event to offer natural, handmade products with an authentic flair that delighted everyone in attendance.

Beyond the shopping and flavors, this initiative fostered integration among our community members, supported entrepreneurial talent, and honored a date that holds great significance in American culture—a core part of our identity as a binational center.

We’re grateful to everyone who made this experience possible, from the organizers to each participant who brought the event to life.