By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Center for Education and Nutrition and Comprehensive Child Care Centers (CEN-CINAI) has launched a groundbreaking bilingual education program, marking a significant milestone in its 74-year history. This initiative integrates English language learning into early childhood care, aiming to enhance opportunities for vulnerable populations.
Over 622 children under five are already participating in the program across 22 centers in the Chorotega and Central South regions. Simultaneously, 29 staff members are receiving training to incorporate English into daily routines. This public-private partnership, initiated in 2023 with support from the First Lady’s Office, signifies a commitment to investing in the future of Costa Rican children.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding bilingual education in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican law promotes bilingualism, recognizing the importance of English proficiency alongside Spanish. While the Constitution doesn’t explicitly mandate bilingual education, legislation like the General Education Law outlines the objective of developing communicative competence in both languages. This creates a framework where educational institutions are encouraged, though not strictly obligated, to implement bilingual programs, fostering a more competitive workforce for a globalized world.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the nuanced approach Costa Rica takes towards bilingual education—promoting it as a crucial skill for the 21st century without imposing a strict mandate. This encouragement-based system allows for flexibility and adaptation within the education sector, ultimately paving the way for a more globally competitive Costa Rican workforce. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable legal perspective on this important topic.
The program’s success underscores the importance of early language acquisition in fostering cognitive development and preparing children for a globalized world. By introducing English at a young age, CEN-CINAI seeks to equip children with valuable communication skills that can open doors to future educational and professional opportunities.
CEN-CINAI plans to expand the program to the Huetar Caribe and Central East regions in 2026, aiming to benefit an additional 240 children and train 20 more staff members. This expansion demonstrates a national commitment to ensuring equal access to quality bilingual education.
The introduction of English at CEN-CINAI represents a shift towards a more inclusive and equitable education system in Costa Rica. It recognizes the vital role of language in empowering individuals and bridging social divides.
This is a historic step. We are the only government that thought that the children of CEN-CINAI also had the right to be bilingual. Today, more than 600 children speak English and we are building a country with real opportunities for everyone.
Marianella Ribas, National Director of CEN-CINAI
This initiative positions Costa Rica as a leader in early childhood education, highlighting the country’s dedication to providing its youngest citizens with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The bilingual program not only empowers children but also strengthens the nation’s human capital, contributing to long-term economic and social development.
The program’s long-term impact is expected to be substantial, as bilingualism has been linked to improved cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and overall academic achievement. By investing in early bilingual education, Costa Rica is laying the foundation for a brighter future for its children and the nation as a whole.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CEN-CINAI
About CEN-CINAI:
The Center for Education and Nutrition and Comprehensive Child Care Centers (CEN-CINAI) is a Costa Rican institution dedicated to providing comprehensive care and education for children under five. With a 74-year history, CEN-CINAI plays a crucial role in early childhood development, focusing on nutrition, education, and social support for vulnerable populations.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to integrity permeates every aspect of its practice, from complex corporate matters to impactful pro bono work. By actively sharing legal expertise through educational initiatives and community outreach, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and organizations, fostering a more just and equitable society built on a foundation of legal understanding.
