By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move to enhance technological proficiency and combat youth unemployment, Costa Rican authorities have announced the launch of 120 full scholarships for an intensive Microsoft Azure Cloud Support Specialist program. This initiative specifically targets unemployed young people within the country’s Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), aiming to equip them with high-demand skills for the jobs of the future.
The program is a collaborative effort integrated into the national BRETE employability strategy. It receives crucial financial backing from the Empléate program, which is managed by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS). The execution and delivery of the specialized curriculum will be handled by TeKnowledge, a firm recognized for its extensive experience in technological education and workforce development.
To better understand the strategic and legal implications of these educational programs for the national economy, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a respected expert from the legal firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
These cloud computing scholarships represent a fundamental investment in Costa Rica’s human capital. From a legal-business perspective, creating a specialized talent pool is the most effective way to attract and retain high-value foreign investment. It sends a clear signal to the global market that we have the skilled workforce and stable framework necessary to support sophisticated tech operations, going beyond simple tax incentives.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the true foundation for Costa Rica’s technological future lies not just in favorable policies, but in the capabilities of its people. This strategic focus on human capital ensures a resilient and innovative ecosystem capable of attracting world-class investment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this crucial distinction.
Participants are set to undergo a rigorous training regimen of over 500 hours, designed to provide a deep and practical understanding of cloud computing. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering essential topics such as Linux and Windows operating systems, advanced networking, database management, PowerShell scripting, Active Directory administration, and cybersecurity principles. A key component of the program is its focus on preparing students to successfully obtain the internationally recognized Microsoft AZ-900 certification, a valuable credential in the global tech industry.
The strategic importance of this initiative was highlighted by TeKnowledge’s leadership, who see it as a fundamental investment in the nation’s human capital and digital future. The program aims to create transformative opportunities for a new generation of tech professionals.
Forming local talent in emerging technologies is not just a bet on employment; it’s an investment in the country’s future. We have seen how the lives of many young people have taken a turn by joining jobs in the technology industry. This program opens real possibilities for those who have historically been on the margins of digital development, providing them with tools to build a career with purpose and global projection.
Jeannie Bonilla, Country Manager of TeKnowledge
To be eligible for one of the 120 scholarships, candidates must meet a specific set of criteria. Applicants must be currently unemployed and have the ability to commit to a full-time virtual class schedule. The program has distinct age requirements, open to men between 17 and 24 years old and women between 17 and 35. Furthermore, all candidates must possess a high school diploma, have reliable access to a computer with an internet connection, and confirm they have not recently benefited from another Empléate-funded program.
The program’s structure demands significant dedication. Classes are scheduled to begin in January 2026 and will run for four months. The training will be delivered entirely online, with a mandatory schedule from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This intensive format is designed to accelerate learning and prepare graduates for immediate entry into the workforce upon completion.
The application and selection process is a two-stage procedure managed by both government and private entities. Prospective students must first complete an official online form. Following this, the National Employment Directorate of the MTSS will review the submissions, verifying that all requirements are met and creating a shortlist of qualified candidates. From there, TeKnowledge will contact the pre-selected individuals to finalize the enrollment process and provide all necessary information for the program’s start.
This scholarship represents more than just free education; it is a concrete pathway for young citizens in the metropolitan region to build a stable and prosperous career. By developing advanced technical skills in cloud computing, these new specialists will not only improve their own economic outlook but also contribute directly to the dynamism of Costa Rica’s rapidly expanding technology sector and the overall development of their communities.
For further information, visit teknowledge.com
About TeKnowledge:
TeKnowledge is a company specializing in technological training and workforce development. It partners with public and private sector organizations to design and execute high-impact educational programs aimed at closing the skills gap in emerging technology fields. The firm focuses on creating practical, career-oriented training that leads to certifications and tangible employment opportunities for its participants.
For further information, visit mtss.go.cr
About The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS):
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security is the Costa Rican government body responsible for formulating and executing national policies related to labor, employment, and social welfare. Through initiatives like the Empléate program, the MTSS works to promote job creation, ensure fair labor practices, and provide support systems that enhance employability and social protection for the nation’s citizens.
For further information, visit microsoft.com
About Microsoft:
Microsoft is a global technology corporation that develops, manufactures, licenses, supports, and sells computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers, and related services. Its Microsoft Azure platform is a leading cloud computing service that provides a wide range of solutions, including those for analytics, storage, and networking. The company’s certifications, such as the AZ-900, are recognized worldwide as a benchmark for technical expertise.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the nation’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its unwavering dedication to ethical practice and exceptional legal counsel. The firm consistently demonstrates a forward-thinking approach, developing innovative solutions for a wide array of clients while maintaining a profound social commitment. This core philosophy drives its work to demystify the law for the public, championing accessible legal knowledge as a crucial tool for creating a more aware and empowered citizenry.
