# Dominican Republic youth initiatives and seismic risks > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-youth-development-initiatives > Updated: 2026-08-15T20:02:03.000Z. Sources: 25. Developments: 2. The Dominican Republic has implemented various initiatives focused on youth development and technical education. In early August 2026, the Institute of Dominicans in the Exterior (Index) recognized thirty youths of Dominican origin through the Orgullo Dominicano en el Exterior (ODEX) 2026 program. The initiative, which included visits to the National Palace and the National Congress, aims to strengthen the connection between the diaspora and Dominican culture. By mid-August 2026, President Luis Abinader and First Lady Raquel Arbaje presided over the fifteenth graduation ceremony for the Oportunidad 14-24 program. During this event, 2,576 young people from ten provinces and the National District received technical certificates in fields such as hospitality, accounting, informatics, and gastronomy. Officials stated the program aims to provide social mobility by “converting protection into concrete economic opportunities.” To date, the initiative has benefited over 69,000 youths and trained more than 35,000 graduates, with a goal of exceeding 40,000 graduates by the end of 2026. Additionally, the administration announced plans to equip 60% to 70% of technical high schools with practical training tools by November. Concurrently, concerns regarding seismic vulnerability have emerged following major earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela. Eduardo Hidalgo, president of the Dominican Teachers Association (ADP), warned that many public schools are unable to withstand a large-scale earthquake. An ADP investigation revealed that 57% of school centers exhibit cracks in floors, walls, and ceilings, while the remaining 43% lack the structural integrity to resist tremors exceeding 7 degrees on the Richter scale. Geologists have noted that the country remains under threat due to two regional tectonic fault systems. In response to the seismic activity in Colombia, the Dominican government has established a collection center at the ‘27 de Febrero’ Navy Base to gather medical supplies, food, and hygiene products for international humanitarian assistance. ## Claims - The Oportunidad 14-24 program has surpassed 35,000 graduates. (corroborated by 5 sources) - Social Policy Cabinet coordinator Geanilda Vásquez stated the program aims to convert social protection into economic autonomy and social mobility. (corroborated by 4 sources) - President Luis Abinader encouraged graduates to choose the path of work and hope. (corroborated by 3 sources) - More than 69,000 youths have benefited from the initiative since its creation. (corroborated by 3 sources) - A total of 2,576 young people from 10 provinces and the National District graduated during the first semester of 2026. (corroborated by 3 sources) - The program projects to exceed 40,000 graduates by the end of 2026. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Between 60% and 70% of technical high schools in the country will have required equipment for practical training by November. (corroborated by 2 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-08-15: Dominican Republic addresses seismic risks and provides aid to Colombia The Dominican Republic is addressing seismic vulnerabilities in schools, providing humanitarian aid to earthquake-stricken Colombia, and celebrating 2,576 new graduates from the Oportunidad 14-24 program. 25 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republics-oportunidad-14-24-program-graduates-2576-youths ### 2026-08-01: Dominican Institute honors 30 diaspora youth in ODEX 2026 program The Institute of Dominicans in the Exterior honored 30 diaspora youths (10‑17) for academic and leadership achievements during ODEX 2026, including a meeting with President Luis Abinader and cultural tours in D 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-institute-honors-30-diaspora-youth-in-odex-2026-program --- Cite as: Dominican Republic youth initiatives and seismic risks. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-youth-development-initiatives