Dominican Republic hosts inaugural National STEM Fair

The Dominican Republic launched its first National STEM Fair, SOMOS STEM RD, in Santo Domingo on November 2. The event aims to bridge a significant gap in the labor market: while 74 percent of Dominican companies recruit for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics profiles, only 14 percent of young people express interest in training in these fields.

This 60-point discrepancy has led to increased competition for a limited pool of graduates, driving up salaries for available talent while leaving vacancies in technology sectors, service free zones, and government digitalization projects. The fair, held at the Aloft by Marriott, provided students with access to scholarships, internships, and certifications.

The initiative was promoted by Deputy Vicente Sánchez Henríquez, who authored Law 89-25, establishing November 8 as National STEM Day. The event saw participation from high-ranking officials, including Vice President Raquel Peña, and received support from private sector entities such as Google, Grupo Punta Cana, and Grupo Estrella.