Estefany Holguín: Ética, becas, primer empleo y oportunidades para la juventud dominicana

Interview with Stephanie Holguín: Promoting Ethics Among Dominican Youth

Introduction to the Guest

• Leandro Pérez introduces the segment featuring Stephanie Holguín, the Deputy Minister of Administrative and Financial Affairs at the Ministry of Youth.

• Holguín expresses her joy in being part of the interview, highlighting her connection to their shared hometown.

The Third National Congress on Ethics and Youth 2026

• Holguín discusses the main objective of the congress, emphasizing its unprecedented nature and significance for youth ethics.

• The first congress aimed to plant ethical ideas in youth; the second reinforced these concepts, while the third focused on practical application.

• Over 500 young people participated, promoting a culture of ethics even when not observed.

Importance of Ethical Reflection

• Holguín stresses that talent without ethics does not lead to success; ethical training is essential for future leaders.

• Forming ethically-minded youth ensures a better future for Dominican society by fostering exemplary citizens.

Notable Panelists and Their Contributions

• The congress featured prominent figures like Milagros Ortiz Bosch and Jenny Berenice, who provided valuable insights on ethics.

• Their presence underscored that ethics is a serious concern requiring action rather than mere discussion.

• Bosch emphasized that being ethical is non-negotiable; Berenice encouraged youth to align present actions with future aspirations.

Presidential Involvement in Ethical Initiatives

• President's active participation was seen as a strong endorsement for ethical governance in the country.

• His commitment includes leading an institutionalized ethics committee, signaling government interest in promoting ethical standards.

Empowering Youth as Change Agents

• Holguín encourages young people to start making changes within their communities through small actions rather than grand gestures.

• She highlights personal responsibility and integrity as foundational elements for instilling an ethical culture among peers.

Future Steps After the Congress

• Following this successful event, efforts will focus on community outreach through appointed ambassadors of ethics across provinces.

• These ambassadors are tasked with spreading ethical practices within local schools and organizations.

Ministry's Ongoing Initiatives for Youth Development

• The Ministry operates through two main initiatives: Unique Opportunity Windows (BUO), which decentralize access to resources across provinces.

• BUOs aim to ensure that young people can access benefits locally instead of traveling to the capital.

Opportunities for Youth Through Collaboration

Support from Institutions

• Over 30 public and private institutions collaborate to provide opportunities to youth in various sectors, reducing bureaucracy.

• The Ministry of Youth works with MESI to assist young individuals seeking postgraduate education.

Accessing Educational Benefits

• High university costs can hinder youth; the process for obtaining scholarships is crucial.

• Information on how common youth can access scholarships through the ministry is discussed.

Scholarship Application Process

• The ministry has agreements with multiple universities, including international ones, facilitating scholarship applications without needing to visit the ministry.

• Young people can apply for scholarships online via the ministry's website, where they can find available options and requirements.

Financial Aid and Employment Opportunities

Economic Assistance for Students

• Students already enrolled in universities may apply for financial aid if they are not receiving a scholarship.

Focus on Employability

• The minister emphasizes not just preparing youth academically but also providing tools and financing to help them become productive members of society.

First Job Initiative

• "Your First Job" program aims to help young people gain work experience despite challenges related to prior job experience requirements.

Real-Life Impact of Youth Programs

Testimonials from Participants

• A project was initiated due to the realization that young people cannot be expected to have experience without being given opportunities first.

Success Stories

• The first cohort demonstrated commitment and hard work when given a chance; this year marks their second promotion.

Encouragement for Future Generations

Call to Action for Youth

• Young individuals are encouraged to seize opportunities, learn from experiences, and strive towards their dreams.

Expansion of Services Across Provinces

Accessibility Initiatives

• Offices are being established across provinces, including María Trinidad Sánchez, enhancing local access to services.

Transportation Solutions

• Plans include providing buses in remote areas so students can reach universities more easily, addressing transportation-related dropout rates.

Promoting Sports Among Youth

Sports Facilities Development

• A program is underway that will install over 200 sports facilities in urban areas like Gran Santo Domingo and San Cristóbal.

Future Competitions

• After establishing sports facilities, there will be initiatives for local tournaments leading up to national competitions sponsored by the Ministry.

Ethical Leadership Message

Importance of Ethics

• Emphasis on acting ethically as a daily decision rather than just rhetoric; talent must be grounded in ethical behavior.

Final Thoughts

• A call for Dominican youth to contribute positively towards change within their communities.