ITLA and SpaceX explore expanded internet connectivity and AI training in Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Technological Institute of the Americas (ITLA) is working with executives from SpaceX, Starlink and xAI to explore initiatives that could expand internet connectivity and strengthen technology and artificial intelligence training in the Dominican Republic.

ITLA Rector Jimmy Rosario Bernard has led a series of meetings with Starlink Strategic Connectivity Manager Katerina Álvarez, along with representatives of xAI, to discuss potential partnerships in connectivity, technological education and digital transformation.

The latest meeting included Wilfredo Fernández, xAI’s Director for the Americas of Global Government Affairs, and Gabriela Castillo Madrid, Senior Manager for the Americas at xAI. Discussions focused on opportunities to use emerging technologies to expand access to education and prepare students for changing labor market demands.

Among the initiatives under consideration is the development of massive open online courses in artificial intelligence, potentially using xAI’s Grok as a teaching support tool in classrooms and continuing education programs.

The institutions are also exploring the use of Starlink connectivity in rural communities, which could help address internet access limitations and extend technology training opportunities to areas with limited connectivity.

“Through the democratization of knowledge, we are transforming technology into an accessible bridge for Dominican youth to lead the future,” Rosario Bernard said.

During their engagement with ITLA, SpaceX representatives learned about the institution’s educational model, technological inclusion programs and employment rate of more than 90% among graduates. They were also presented with academic programs aligned with global labor market needs, including cybersecurity, mechatronics, artificial intelligence and bioinformatics.