UNICDA at TESOL 2026 in Salt Lake City, Utah, proudly contributing to global conversations on English language education
UNICDA participated in the TESOL 2026 International Convention through a TESOL Focus Session, where progress on the project “Evaluation and Alignment of a National English Immersion Program” was presented. This initiative is being implemented in close collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (MESCYT), with technical support from TESOL International Association consultants and the sponsorship of the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.
The session provided an opportunity to share key findings, opportunities, challenges, and recommendations with the international ELT community, aimed at strengthening the sustainability and scalability of the National English Immersion Program and reinforcing its role as a strategic asset for the Dominican Republic’s educational and productive systems.
Presenting team:
▪️ MESCYT: Giseh Cuesta, Director of Foreign Languages; Zomnia Schott, Academic Coordinator of the Immersion Program
▪️ UNICDA / ICDA: Karlans Camacho, Coordinator of the Teacher Development Center at UNICDA; Daphna Reyes, Immersion Program Coordinator at Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA)
▪️ TESOL International Association: Heidi Faust, Head of Grants and Partnerships; Deborah Kennedy and Lisa Mann, Adult Education and Workforce Development Specialists.
UNICDA remains committed to institutional collaboration, educational quality, and the advancement of English language teaching within a global framework.
UNICDA celebrates the Professional Development Week of the Boosting English program, in collaboration with SIT World Learning and the U.S. Embassy
Santo Domingo, D.R. — The Teacher Development Center at Universidad Domínico Americano (UNICDA) successfully completed the Professional Development Week, a central component of the Boosting English program, a formative initiative designed to strengthen the pedagogical competencies of English teachers across the country.
This component was developed within the framework of the strategic alliance between UNICDA and SIT World Learning, with the sponsorship of the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to advancing excellence in English language teaching in the Dominican Republic.
Training designed for the 21st-century teacher
More than 200 teachers enrolled in this professional development experience, which stood out for its flexibility and practical approach. Participants had the opportunity to choose between one and two short courses of 8 training hours each, tailored to their pedagogical needs and interests.
The training offering was implemented by SIT World Learning in a hybrid format that integrated both virtual and in-person sessions, giving teachers access to up-to-date content on communicative methodologies, reflective classroom practices, and student-centered teaching strategies.
Reflective closing session with Lois Scott-Conley
The training week culminated in a reflective closing session, during which participating teachers were accompanied by Lois Scott-Conley, Senior Consultant at SIT World Learning and a recognized international specialist in curriculum development and teacher training.
In this space, participants shared their learning journeys, exchanged experiences about applying new strategies in their classrooms, and outlined goals for professional growth. Scott-Conley emphasized the importance of ongoing reflection as a driving force for teacher development and highlighted how strengthening English instruction in Dominican classrooms directly impacts students’ educational, professional, and economic opportunities.
Impact that goes beyond the classroom
The Professional Development Week reaffirms the mission of the Teacher Development Center at UNICDA: to train teachers of the English language in the Dominican Republic through innovative, specialized programs aligned with international best practices.
Every trained teacher becomes a multiplier of opportunities, equipping their students with the tools they need to successfully engage with key sectors of the economy, such as tourism, business services, technology, and international trade.
UNICDA extends its sincere gratitude to SIT World Learning and to the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo for their invaluable collaboration, as well as to all participating teachers for their commitment to educational excellence and their dedication to transforming English language instruction in the country.
Viajecito Criollo Fair celebrates Dominican identity with flavor and tradition 🇩🇴
On Thursday, February 26, as part of the commemoration of Dominican Independence Day, the “Viajecito Criollo” Fair was held—an event filled with culture, flavor, and national pride.
The initiative was organized by students of UNICDA’s Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism and Hospitality Business Administration, who carefully attended to every detail to highlight the traditions, folklore, and joy that characterize the Dominican Republic. Through this experience, they managed to transport attendees on an authentic journey through the best of Dominican culture.
During the fair, visitors enjoyed a wide variety of gastronomic offerings, including fresh fruits, habichuelas con dulce, empanaditas, and chimis, as well as a display of handicrafts that filled the space with color, identity, and creativity.
The event also benefited from the valuable support of the School of Art and Culture, whose participation strengthened the purpose of showcasing and celebrating our roots, promoting recognition and appreciation of Dominican identity.
The “Viajecito Criollo” Fair was consolidated as a space for gathering, learning, and celebration, where culture was experienced in every flavor, every artistic expression, and every shared moment.
We extend our gratitude to all who joined us and became part of this experience that exalts the very best of who we are.
Flavors of Korea conquer the kitchen in a culture-filled experience in our Korean Cooking course
The gastronomic richness of South Korea came to life in a unique session during the recent Korean Cooking Course, where participants enjoyed an immersive experience filled with culture, technique, and of course, plenty of flavor.
Throughout the course, attendees learned step by step how to prepare traditional dishes, delving into the use of characteristic ingredients, ancestral culinary techniques, and the secrets that have positioned Korean cuisine as one of the most appreciated worldwide.
Amid captivating aromas, teamwork, and an atmosphere full of enthusiasm, students rolled up their sleeves to recreate authentic recipes, achieving not only new skills in the kitchen but also a deeper connection with an ancient culture through its flavors.
The activity became a space for learning and enjoyment, where each preparation was an opportunity to discover new textures and combinations, making this culinary experience truly enriching.
Thank you to all participants for being part of this delicious gastronomic journey!
UNICDA inaugurates cybersecurity laboratories and launches the agenda for its 25th anniversary
The university strengthens its academic offering in technology with new practical learning spaces and opens its commemorative agenda with the keynote lecture of Dr. Guido Gómez Mazara
Santo Domingo, D.N. – March 18, 2026. The Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) formally inaugurated its Cybersecurity Laboratories in a ceremony that also marked the beginning of the calendar of activities commemorating its 25th anniversary.
The event began with the ribbon-cutting of the new laboratories, located in Building A of the campus, designed as practical learning environments that allow students to develop skills in digital defense, vulnerability analysis, data protection, and cyber risk management, using infrastructures similar to those found in professional settings.
As part of the program, the keynote lecture “Cybersecurity: Challenges and Risks in the Digital Era” was delivered by Dr. Guido Gómez Mazara, President of the Board of Directors of the Dominican Institute of Telecommunications (INDOTEL). He addressed the main challenges facing digital security today and emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional capacities in the face of technological transformation.
At the conclusion of his presentation, UNICDA declared Dr. Guido Gómez Mazara a Distinguished Visitor, in recognition of his outstanding professional career, his valuable contributions to national development, and the significant impact of his lecture on the academic community.
During the opening remarks, UNICDA’s Rector, Eng. Ramón Sosa, highlighted that cybersecurity has become an essential element for the development of modern societies, noting that “information protection, network security, and the resilience of digital infrastructures are indispensable conditions to ensure trust and sustainable development in nations.”
He also emphasized that the inauguration of these laboratories represents a strategic step in consolidating the university’s academic offering in technological areas, aligned with the priorities of the Dominican State and the growing demand for professionals in STEAM disciplines.
The new Cybersecurity Laboratories will allow students to train in dynamic environments that simulate real-world scenarios, strengthening their preparation to face the challenges of the digital world and contributing to the development of highly skilled talent for the country.
The event was attended by academic authorities, representatives of the public and private sectors, special guests, and students, who praised the initiative as a significant contribution to strengthening technological education in the Dominican Republic.
With this event, the Domínico Americano University formally begins the commemoration of its 25th anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, educational quality, and the training of professionals capable of leading in a global and constantly evolving environment.
About UNICDA The Domínico Americano University (UNICDA) is a higher education institution approved by Executive Decree No. 389-01 in 2001. It is part of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, founded in 1947, and offers undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs, distinguished by its focus on academic quality, innovation, and the training of professionals with a global vision.
Young artists shine at the closing of the Character Design for Comics Kids course
Creativity, imagination, and talent took center stage at the closing of our Character Design for Comics Kids course. During this activity, students presented their final project: the creation of an original character.
Each child brought unique ideas to life, developing characters with their own personality, story, and style. It was a special moment where their creativity could be seen reflected in every detail of their creations.
This space allowed them to strengthen artistic and expressive skills, fostering confidence and creative thinking in the youngest participants.
We congratulate our young artists for this great achievement and for showcasing all their talent!
Choral Concert Tribute to the Homeland celebrates Dominican musical identity and tradition
In an emotional evening dedicated to national culture, the choral concert “Tribute to the Homeland” was held—a musical gathering that brought together distinguished choral groups to exalt the identity and traditions of the Dominican Republic. 🇩🇴
The concert featured the participation of the Julio Alberto Hernández Male Choir of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, directed by Henry Cordero; the National Lyric Company of the General Directorate of Fine Arts, under the direction of Antonia Chabebe; and the Mixed Choir of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano, directed by Professor Viterbo Peña.
As hosts of the evening, the choirs of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano shared the stage with the prestigious national ensemble in a program that highlighted the richness of Dominican choral music, performing pieces that evoke the country’s history, culture, and patriotic spirit.
The event brought together music and culture enthusiasts in a memorable night where voices united to pay tribute to Dominican roots and celebrate the power of choral singing as an artistic and cultural expression.
The organizers thanked the audience for joining this special celebration, which reaffirms the commitment to promote and preserve Dominican culture through music.
The School of Languages holds the closing ceremony of the English Immersion Program for Competitiveness of MESCYT
The School of Languages of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA) held on November 28 the closing ceremony for the students who completed the English Immersion Program for Competitiveness of MESCYT. The event, conducted in an atmosphere of pride and satisfaction, recognized the effort, discipline, and academic growth achieved by the participants throughout their training process.
The activity was attended by Robert Valcin, Director of the School of Languages at ICDA, and Daphna Reyes, Program Coordinator, who highlighted in their remarks the commitment demonstrated by the students and the importance of perseverance in learning a second language.
Representing the faculty, professors Midel José and Winser Espinal delivered a message that underscored the academic and personal evolution experienced by the students during the program. Likewise, outstanding students shared words of gratitude and reflection, emphasizing the positive impact this experience has had on their development.
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of diplomas by professors Norberto Gallardo and Víctor Ramírez, a symbolic moment that officially marked the closure of the process for the morning group.
The School of Languages congratulates all the graduates and encourages them to continue advancing toward new goals and opportunities, reaffirming its commitment to the training of competitive citizens prepared to face the challenges of today’s environment.
The Dominican-American Cultural Institute presents its Strategic Plan 2025-2027
The Dominican American Cultural Institute officially presented its Institutional Strategic Plan 2025-2027, reaffirming its commitment to education, culture, and innovation.
This plan was conceived with the participation of our Board of Directors, the executive team, academic leaders, and collaborators from all areas, who contributed their vision to continue transforming lives through bicultural and excellent educational experiences.
Under five strategic pillars, this plan will guide us during the coming years in the following aspects:
Integral and continuous education: to promote significant learning at all stages.
Culture that unites and educates: strengthening bicultural identity and exchange.
Leadership with responsibility: which promotes sustainable and ethical development.
Innovation for the future: integrating technology and creativity in every process.
Operational excellence: guaranteeing quality, efficiency, and constant improvement.
At ICDA, we continue building bridges between cultures, forming global citizens, and reaffirming our purpose: educating, inspiring, and transforming.