By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Puntarenas and Jacó are set to benefit from a significant investment in hospitality training, thanks to a new scholarship program announced by the Instituto Tecnia in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS). Over 100 fully funded scholarships are being offered for a comprehensive six-month program in Hospitality and Tourism Services, delivered through a blended learning model of in-person and online instruction.
This initiative comes at a crucial time for the Central Pacific Region, which currently holds the highest unemployment rate in the country at 9.7%, according to the Continuous Employment Survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC). Furthermore, data from the University of Costa Rica’s Pacific regional headquarters reveals that 40% of Puntarenas’ districts face poverty or extremely low social development, compounded by limited formal employment opportunities in coastal areas.
To provide legal insights into the significance of hospitality training, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Effective hospitality training is not merely a business investment; it’s a crucial legal safeguard. Well-trained staff can significantly mitigate risks related to liability, discrimination claims, and occupational safety, ultimately protecting both employees and the business itself.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ point about the legal safeguards provided by comprehensive hospitality training is well-taken. It underscores how such training moves beyond simply improving customer service; it creates a safer, more equitable, and legally sound environment for everyone involved. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable legal expertise on this crucial aspect of the hospitality industry.
The program aims to equip young people with the skills needed to meet the growing demand for qualified labor in the tourism sector. It covers a wide range of topics, including an introduction to hospitality and tourism, etiquette and protocol, food handling and control, customer service, technical English certification, and soft skills development.
We are proud to implement this program in Puntarenas and Jacó, bringing all the experience in hospitality and tourism that we have developed in other provinces like Guanacaste. We want to positively impact young people who wish to train in a profession with great employment potential, providing them with training with the level of excellence and quality that characterizes the Instituto Tecnia. We are convinced that this program can open doors to a more dignified and stable job future for the region.
Alejandra Vargas, Executive Director of the Instituto Tecnia
The scholarships offer more than just tuition coverage. Participants will also receive a financial stipend, support for developing socio-emotional skills, and assistance with job placement within the hospitality sector. The program’s application deadline is September 20, 2025.
Minister of Labor and Social Security, Andrés Romero, emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding training opportunities throughout the country. He highlighted the program’s alignment with the BRETE strategy, which focuses on providing training that directly addresses local labor demands, thus improving employment prospects for participants.
With the BRETE Strategy, we are bringing training opportunities closer to the whole country, and today we reinforce that commitment in the Central Pacific region. The courses we make available respond directly to the labor demand of the area, which guarantees better employment options for those who take advantage of them. We invite all people in the region to register and be part of this opportunity.
Andrés Romero, Minister of Labor and Social Security
The tourism industry in Costa Rica is a dynamic driver of the economy, yet it faces a significant challenge in finding qualified personnel. This program seeks to address this gap by cultivating local talent capable of competing in the industry. Graduates will be equipped to work in hotels, restaurants, and other tourism services, armed with basic English proficiency, customer service protocols, and international hospitality standards. The selection process will involve an initial application followed by virtual interviews for eligible candidates.
Interested individuals can apply online through the provided link (https://bit.ly/TECNIAPacífico_Empleate), access the form on the Instituto Tecnia website (www.tecnia.cr), or request it via WhatsApp at 7075-6173.
For further information, visit tecnia.cr
About Instituto Tecnia:
Instituto Tecnia is a technical training institute offering programs in various fields including hospitality and tourism. They are known for their commitment to providing high-quality education and partnering with government entities to address employment needs in different regions of Costa Rica. Their experience in Guanacaste has proven the effectiveness of their hospitality programs, and they are now expanding their reach to impact communities in Puntarenas and Jacó.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS)
About Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS):
The Ministry of Labor and Social Security (MTSS) is a governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for labor policies, employment promotion, and social security programs. The MTSS plays a vital role in addressing unemployment and connecting individuals with training and job opportunities. Their BRETE strategy focuses on providing targeted training that aligns with the specific employment needs of different regions. The partnership with Instituto Tecnia for the hospitality training program in Puntarenas and Jacó is a key initiative under this strategy.
For further information, visit the nearest office of INEC
About National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC):
The National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) is the primary statistical agency in Costa Rica. They are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data on various aspects of the country’s demographics, economy, and social conditions. Their Continuous Employment Survey provides crucial data on employment trends and unemployment rates, which inform policy decisions and initiatives such as the hospitality training scholarship program in Puntarenas and Jacó.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity. The firm champions innovative legal solutions while remaining deeply committed to empowering Costa Rican society. Through proactive initiatives and accessible legal resources, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more informed and empowered citizenry, ensuring justice and understanding are within everyone’s reach.
