Ministry of Youth launches the National Youth Award 2026 in Santiago

Santiago.-The Ministry of Youth held the regional launch of the National Youth Award (PNJ) 2026 from the city of Santiago, the highest award granted by the Dominican State to young people between 15 and 35 years old for their contributions in different areas of national development. The event took place at the Bar Moisés Zouan of the Gran Teatro del Cibao under the slogan “Young people who inspire, stories that transform“. The activity was headed by the vice ministers Francisco Santiago and Endry González, representing Minister Carlos J. Valdez Matos, along with the provincial governor, Rosa Santos, and the mayor of Santiago, Ulises Rodríguez. The awards ceremony includes 15 categories ranging from student merit, contributions to human rights and sports, to cultural, business, political and religious leadership development, as well as recognition of young Dominicans abroad.

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Among the requirements to apply for the award are Dominican nationality, age between 15 and 35 years old, a letter of good conduct, a copy of the identity card or birth certificate, documents supporting the trajectory, and a thematic essay. For this edition, two new requirements are added: a portrait photo and a short video on social media where the applicant summarizes their achievements and impact. The selection process includes three phases: provincial evaluations, selection of finalists, and selection of the winners by a national jury. Each evaluation will be carried out by independent commissions made up of representatives from the private sector, public institutions, and civil society organizations. The winners will receive the official NPC statuette, an accreditation certificate, RD$100,000 in cash, a laptop, and a commemorative ring. The call will be open from August 12 to September 30, 2025 through the official portal of the Ministry of Youth.