In a landmark event held in Santo Domingo, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic spearheaded the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the government and NVIDIA, a global powerhouse in artificial intelligence (AI) and accelerated computing. This strategic collaboration is set to propel the implementation of the National AI Strategy, revolutionizing critical sectors of the nation through cutting-edge technologies.
The partnership zeroes in on pivotal areas such as health, education, transportation, public safety, finance, and tourism. By integrating AI solutions, the initiative aims to elevate public services, boost competitiveness, and champion sovereign and inclusive technological advancements. President Abinader hailed the agreement as a historic milestone, underscoring its potential to shape a future anchored in the nation’s people, talent, and innovation. He highlighted the transformative social impact of AI, ranging from expedited medical diagnoses to the development of smart cities, personalized education systems, and sustainable tourism practices.
Key components of the MoU include:
1. **Technological and Data Sovereignty**: Ensuring local hosting of AI models and infrastructure to promote national control over technological assets.
2. **AI Talent Development**: Cultivating homegrown expertise through initiatives like the Deep Learning Institute and the planned AI Academy.
3. **Center of Excellence**: Establishing the first-of-its-kind AI hub in Central America and the Caribbean, dedicated to research, education, and innovation, accessible to students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and tourists.
4. **AI Training Programs**: Launching comprehensive training initiatives in collaboration with INFOTEP, with broader public and private sector involvement commencing in 2026.
This agreement marks a decisive step in positioning the Dominican Republic as a regional leader in technological innovation. It underscores the nation’s commitment to digital sovereignty, smart solutions, and an AI-driven future. President Abinader described the partnership as the dawn of a new era of intelligence, innovation, and national progress.