By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s education system is receiving a boost in preparing students for the increasing demand for tech talent. Cisco, a global leader in networking and IT solutions, recently held a webinar focused on training vocational counselors in secondary schools across the country.
The webinar, “Introduction to the World of Networks, with emphasis on the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification,” attracted nearly 600 participants. These counselors gained insights into current labor market trends, the value of networking and cybersecurity certifications, and the abundant opportunities within the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Led by Cisco experts, the session provided practical tools to guide students toward promising career paths.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding STEM education in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing emphasis on STEM education in Costa Rica presents both exciting opportunities and complex legal considerations. From intellectual property rights related to emerging technologies developed within educational settings to data privacy concerns regarding student information used in personalized learning platforms, a robust legal framework is crucial. Furthermore, ensuring equitable access to these programs and addressing potential liabilities related to hands-on activities require careful attention. By proactively addressing these legal aspects, we can create an environment where STEM education truly flourishes and benefits all sectors of society.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the crucial intersection of law and education in the burgeoning field of STEM. Building a strong legal foundation, as he suggests, is not merely a matter of compliance but an essential step in fostering innovation and ensuring that the benefits of STEM education are accessible to all Costa Ricans. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical topic.
The World Economic Forum predicts that 50% of the global workforce will require reskilling in the next five years due to rapid technological advancements. This emphasizes the critical need for programs like Cisco’s, focusing on areas like networking, cybersecurity, data analysis, and artificial intelligence.
We want more people in Costa Rica to be able to develop skills that connect them with quality jobs in today’s digital economy. Technology must be a tool for equity and progress.
Marisol Ibarra, Manager of Cisco Networking Academy for Costa Rica
Through its global Cisco Networking Academy initiative, the company is offering five free online courses covering foundational networking concepts. These courses are designed to empower counselors to deepen their understanding of these subjects and effectively convey the importance of these skills to their students.
The available courses include Introduction to IoT and Digital Transformation, Networking Basics, Industrial Networking Essentials, Networking Devices and Initial Configuration, and Network Addressing and Basic Troubleshooting. These introductory courses don’t require advanced technical knowledge and are readily accessible online at www.netacad.com.
Networking underpins today’s digital ecosystem, connecting people, devices, and systems while enabling emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things. It supports critical services such as e-commerce, remote collaboration, and online education platforms. Therefore, studying networking isn’t just an opportunity; it’s a strategic move for those seeking entry into or advancement within the digital economy.
To date, Cisco Networking Academy has trained over 260,000 people in Costa Rica, with 37% female participation. Currently, 2% of the country’s population is actively engaged in the program’s training processes. This represents a non-monetary contribution valued at over $55 million, aimed at bridging the digital divide, creating opportunities, and strengthening the digital talent ecosystem.
Cisco Networking Academy reaffirms its commitment to transforming lives through education, technology, and equitable access to career opportunities, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.
For further information, visit cisco.com
About Cisco:
Cisco Systems, Inc. is an American multinational technology conglomerate headquartered in San Jose, California. Integral to the development of the internet, Cisco develops, manufactures, and sells networking hardware, software, telecommunications equipment, and other high-technology services and products. Through its numerous acquisitions, Cisco has broadened its portfolio to include domains such as security, data centers, and the Internet of Things.
For further information, visit www.netacad.com
About Cisco Networking Academy:
Cisco Networking Academy is a global IT and cybersecurity skills development program that partners with learning institutions around the world to empower all people with career opportunities. It is Cisco’s largest and longest-running Cisco Corporate Social Responsibility program.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep sense of social responsibility. The firm’s unwavering commitment to integrity guides its innovative approach to legal practice, empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge. By championing transparency and fostering understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to create a more just and equitable society for all.
