Santo Domingo. –
In such a competitive world, mastery of foreign languages is a gateway to multiple employment, social and economic opportunities. Thanks to the arrival of the Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano (ICDA) to the Dominican Republic more than seven decades ago, English language teaching is gaining more and more ground.
Under this premise, Dario Lama, president of the Board of Directors of ICDA, said, in the framework of the celebration of the 75th Anniversary of this institution of higher education, that throughout these years it has delivered to the country more than three million Dominicans trained in English and other areas of knowledge.
“Our mark on Dominican society is very deep, the same that has been the result of quality work, of proven dedication and commitment and of a constant process of growth, development and expansion,” emphasized Lama.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors recalled how since its arrival in 1947, through the teaching of English and the culture of the United States, it has transformed the lives of hundreds of citizens, when the country barely had two million inhabitants.
“As an educational institution we have great challenges and our real great achievement will always be the transformation of the lives of many Dominicans through education,” said Lama, thanking all the administrative and teaching staff for their commitment.
The event included the presentation of the ICDA’s 75th Anniversary documentary, an audiovisual presentation highlighting the institution’s transcendence from its beginnings to the present, combining history with the experiences of graduates and teachers. The occasion was an opportunity to recognize the Embassy of the United States for its immense support and accompaniment during all these years. The organization also recognized the praiseworthy work of Mr. Arthur Valdez, member of the ICDA Board of Directors. Also honored were Mrs. Carolina Mejía, Mayor of the National District, as an outstanding graduate of the Language School, and Mr. Carlos Hernández, as the longest-serving teacher of English as a second language in the institution.
Likewise, administrative and teaching collaborators of Universidad Domínico Americano, the Domínico Americano School and the Domínico Americano Preschool were recognized for their years of service, as well as outstanding graduates of the institution.
Since its foundation, the evolution of ICDA has been constant. Throughout its years of history, the institution has contributed to the field of English teaching in the country. In the 1950’s, it established the Annual English Teachers Conference, which over the years has become the most important academic activity for English teachers, not only in the institution, but also in the Dominican Republic.
Likewise, the institution has opened extensions in different areas of the national territory, such as: Santo Domingo East, San Pedro de Macorís, San Francisco de Macorís, Higüey and La Romana.
More about ICDA
Instituto Cultural Domínico Americano was founded in 1947 by a group of Dominicans and North Americans residing in the country, with the purpose of strengthening the bonds of friendship and culture between the United States of America and the Dominican Republic.
Since its foundation, it has been an institution that has always been at the forefront in educational services to the Dominican society, dominating the English language teaching market.
Currently, the institution has a wide range of academic and cultural offerings, including higher education: undergraduate, graduate, continuing education and the Teacher Development Center; school: primary and secondary; preschool education, for children from 2 years of age; language school, with an English as a second language program and a Spanish program for foreigners; the Cultural Department, which directs cultural programs and the School of Art and Culture; the Lincoln Library and the Student Advising Office.
