Dominican teachers protest over working conditions and ministry merger

The Dominican Association of Teachers (ADP) has launched a series of protests across the Dominican Republic, including 'bocinazos' and school sit-ins in regions like Puerto Plata and Santo Domingo. The union is demanding improved working conditions, better school infrastructure, and the payment of performance incentives. Teachers also cited a lack of basic resources, such as clean water, bathrooms, and maintenance staff, as reasons for reducing class hours.

Simultaneously, the ADP has denounced the government's plan to merge the Ministry of Education (MINERD) with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MESCyT). Union leaders claim the government intends to use its legislative majority to impose this reform without consensus from the educational community.

Separately, former Education Minister Ángel Hernández has criticized the current state of the Dominican school system, arguing that educational materials and curricula are failing to keep pace with rapid technological advancements and the rise of artificial intelligence.