STEM training: key to the development of the productive sector in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo — Between 2012 and 2023, the number of students completing higher education programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) has shown sustained growth.
According to the study “STEM in the DR: education for innovation and growth,” published by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Micro and Small Businesses (MICM), from 2012 to 2019, the annual average number of graduates was 6,894, while between 2021 and 2023 this figure increased to 8,723.
He adds that, when comparing the ends of the period, it can be seen that in 2012, 5,830 students graduated, while in 2023, the figure rose to 8,637, representing an absolute increase of 2,807 graduates.
This growth demonstrates a positive trend and reaffirms the Dominican Republic’s commitment to training a highly qualified workforce to meet the demands of the global market.

It details that, in the last 10 years, the public sector has experienced an average growth of 7.0%, exceeding the 4.0% registered in the private sector, which reflects the impact of public policies in the promotion of STEM education.

The study, presented by the MICM, highlights the fundamental role of training in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for the strengthening of the Dominican productive sector and the economic development of the country.

Impact on productivity and competitiveness
The report highlights that technical and professional education has allowed the Dominican Republic to advance in the preparation of a workforce aligned with market demands, especially in strategic sectors such as advanced manufacturing, technology and medical devices.

With more than 90,000 graduates in STEM programs since 2012 and a growing enrollment in technical training, the country is consolidating itself as an attractive destination for foreign investment and industrial growth.

The study emphasizes the success of public-private initiatives and collaboration models such as the Triple Helix, which have boosted employability in key areas.

One example is the Infotep dual training model, which has achieved a 92% job placement rate, guaranteeing a supply of qualified talent for high value-added productive sectors.

Likewise, government incentives have helped to attract investment, with exports in the medical devices sector reaching 2,521.7 million dollars in 2023.

Despite these advances, challenges remain, such as the gender gap in STEM careers and the need to expand program coverage in regions with less access to technical education.
The lack of infrastructure in rural and border areas limits the population’s readiness to integrate into expanding industrial and technological sectors.

Recommendations to boost the productive sector
To strengthen STEM education and its impact on national productivity, the study proposes several key strategies: Expand the academic offering in emerging technological areas, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing, in collaboration with industry.

Replicate successful technical training models, such as Loyola Polytechnic, in other institutions to decentralize access to specialized education and capitalize on the incentives of Law No. 12-21 in the border area.

Promote the inclusion of women in STEM careers, drawing inspiration from international initiatives such as “Girls Go Circular” to close the gender gap and increase female participation in strategic productive sectors.

Strengthen investment in research and development (R&D), with the creation of centers of excellence and support for innovation projects in manufacturing, medical devices and information technology.
The study concludes that these actions are essential to strengthen the competitiveness of the Dominican productive sector, ensuring a highly trained workforce and promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the country.