Abinader honors 30 top students of Dominican descent from abroad at National Palace

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader welcomed 30 high-achieving students of Dominican descent from abroad to the National Palace as part of the fourth edition of the Dominican Pride Abroad (ODEX) program.

The initiative, organized by the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (Index), recognizes young Dominicans for their outstanding academic achievements while strengthening their ties to the Dominican Republic through a week of cultural and institutional activities.

Addressing the students, Abinader encouraged them to maintain their connection to their heritage, saying, “We want you to feel Dominican too. There will always be a country here waiting for you with open arms.”

During the hour-long meeting, the president answered questions about the country’s progress in areas including education, poverty reduction, healthcare, and transportation. He also discussed his path into politics and his vision for the Dominican Republic’s future.

The students, accompanied by their families, traveled from the United States, Puerto Rico, Spain, Italy, England, Argentina, Chile, and Panama to participate in ODEX 2026, which runs from July 20 to 25. The program also includes visits to museums, the Colonial City, the National Congress, and other government institutions.