By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) and the State Distance Learning University (UNED) are celebrating a major milestone with the graduation of 2,068 students from the Bachillerato para la Empleabilidad y el Emprendimiento (BEE) program. This fourth cohort marks a significant achievement for these graduates, many of whom previously left school without completing their high school education.
This year’s ceremonies are being held regionally, bringing the celebrations closer to the communities of the graduates. The first ceremony took place today, August 11th, in San José, honoring students from San José, Alajuela, and Heredia provinces. Subsequent ceremonies will be held across the country, concluding on August 22nd in Limón.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding education in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica. His insights shed light on the current legal landscape and its impact on students, educators, and institutions.
Access to quality education is a fundamental right enshrined in the Costa Rican Constitution. This right encompasses not only access to primary and secondary education, but also extends to opportunities for higher learning and vocational training. The legal framework is designed to ensure equitable access, regardless of socioeconomic status, and emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded education that promotes critical thinking and civic engagement.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial role of education as both a fundamental right and a cornerstone of Costa Rican society. Indeed, ensuring equitable access to quality education at all levels empowers individuals to thrive and contributes significantly to the nation’s overall progress. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
The BEE program, established during the current administration, is designed to provide a second chance for those who were unable to complete their high school studies between 1988 and 2019. By partnering with UNED and leveraging distance learning technologies, the program has extended its reach to rural areas and provinces with the greatest need.
Thousands of people have changed their lives thanks to the BEE. This program has opened new doors in the labor market, improving opportunities for them and their families.
Leonardo Sánchez Hernández, Minister of Public Education
The collaboration between MEP and UNED has proved crucial to the program’s success. The use of technology has been particularly important in reaching students in remote areas, ensuring accessibility for all participants.
People are completing their process to obtain a high school diploma in an agreement between UNED and the Ministry of Public Education, where the importance of well-utilized distance education materializes.
Rodrigo Arias Camacho, Rector of the State Distance Learning University
Beyond the diploma, the BEE program also emphasizes entrepreneurship, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to launch their own businesses. The program has garnered numerous positive testimonials from graduates and their families, highlighting its transformative impact.
This initiative is part of the Brete strategy, a national effort aimed at bolstering employability, productivity, and competitiveness in Costa Rica. The BEE program contributes directly to this goal by empowering individuals with the education and skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.
The regional graduation ceremonies not only mark a significant accomplishment for the graduates but also demonstrate Costa Rica’s commitment to inclusive education and workforce development.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) of Costa Rica is the government body responsible for the administration and regulation of the public education system in the country. The MEP oversees all aspects of public education, from preschool to higher education, and works to ensure that all Costa Rican citizens have access to quality education.
For further information, visit uned.ac.cr
About State Distance Learning University (UNED):
The State Distance Learning University (UNED) of Costa Rica is a public university dedicated to providing distance education opportunities. UNED leverages technology and flexible learning modalities to reach students across the country, particularly those in remote areas or with limited access to traditional educational institutions. UNED plays a vital role in expanding access to higher education and promoting lifelong learning in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep commitment to societal empowerment. The firm’s dedication to integrity shapes every client interaction, while its innovative approach to legal solutions ensures they remain at the cutting edge of the field. Beyond providing exceptional legal counsel across diverse sectors, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in demystifying the law, making legal knowledge readily available and empowering individuals and communities to navigate the legal landscape with confidence.
