By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is taking a significant step forward in strengthening its technical education sector, thanks to a new strategic partnership between the National Learning Institute (INA), technical high schools, and Johnson & Johnson MedTech Costa Rica Ltda. This collaborative effort aims to equip students with specialized training and international experience, specifically targeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in the medical device industry.
The partnership focuses on enhancing the skills of students through the Technological Development Program in Metal Mechanics, which provides practical training in areas like Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining. This program is a key component of the agreements signed between INA, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), and Johnson & Johnson MedTech. The initiative provides a direct link between classroom learning and real-world industry needs.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal implications surrounding technical education, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Robust technical education programs are crucial for Costa Rica’s economic development. Clear legal frameworks regarding accreditation, certification, and intellectual property rights are essential to fostering innovation and ensuring graduates possess the skills needed for a competitive global market.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly emphasizes the critical link between robust technical education and economic progress, a connection that requires a solid legal foundation to truly flourish. A clear and supportive legal framework not only protects innovation but also empowers graduates to confidently contribute their skills on a global scale. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this crucial topic.
As part of this initiative, three students, one INA graduate and two students from Jesús Ocaña Rojas Technical High School in Alajuela, will receive specialized training abroad in strategic areas for the medical technology industry. This international experience will provide them with a valuable advantage as they embark on their careers.
We are proud to advance our purpose at Johnson & Johnson MedTech by combining biology and technology to address complex diseases and improve outcomes for patients in Costa Rica and around the world. Our cooperation with the country’s leading institutions reflects our commitment to fostering a local talent base and building a resilient and future-ready supply chain.
Luis Román, Vice President of Supply Chain, Johnson & Johnson MedTech
The collaboration is not only beneficial for students but also serves as a critical link between educational institutions and industry needs. This practical approach to education allows students to apply their knowledge, gain valuable experience, and contribute meaningfully to Costa Rica’s development.
This collaboration represents a key step in strengthening the link between technical education and the needs of the productive sector. Opportunities like this allow our students to apply their knowledge in real contexts, obtain international experience and contribute significantly to the development of the country.
Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive Director of INA
Johnson & Johnson MedTech also maintains strong ties with public universities such as the University of Costa Rica (UCR), the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC), and the National Technical University (UTN), further promoting programs in engineering, advanced manufacturing, and technological development.
The strengthening of technical education in the western region is fundamental for the sustainable development of Costa Rica. We applaud Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s initiative to link academia with industry, generating real training and employment opportunities for our young people, and thus contributing to the economic and technological growth of our country.
Leonardo Sánchez, Minister of Public Education
Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s operations are based in the Evolution Free Zone business park in Grecia, with over 19,000 square meters of production capacity and the projection of generating about 3,000 jobs in the coming years. Medical devices, including orthopedic and electrophysiology products, are slated to be manufactured at this site starting in 2027. This investment in Costa Rican talent reinforces the country’s leadership in the healthcare technology manufacturing industry. The company acknowledges potential risks, including commercial uncertainties, patent challenges, competition, manufacturing difficulties, product safety concerns, regulatory changes, and healthcare cost containment trends.
For further information, visit jnj.com
About Johnson & Johnson MedTech:
Johnson & Johnson MedTech is a global medical technology company focused on combining biology and technology to address complex diseases and improve patient outcomes. With a history spanning over 135 years, the company is committed to medical innovation and building a resilient supply chain. They operate a facility in Grecia, Costa Rica, projected to generate thousands of jobs in the coming years, manufacturing orthopedic and electrophysiology products.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA)
About Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA):
The National Learning Institute (INA) is a key player in Costa Rica’s technical education landscape. The institute partners with educational institutions and private sector companies like Johnson & Johnson MedTech to provide practical training programs that meet the evolving demands of various industries. They are committed to developing a highly skilled workforce and contributing to the country’s economic and technological growth.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP)
About Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is the governing body responsible for education in Costa Rica. The MEP collaborates with institutions like INA and private companies to create educational opportunities that align with the country’s development goals. They support initiatives that strengthen technical education and connect students with real-world industry experience.
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 empowering Costa Rican society is evident in its proactive efforts to demystify the law, providing accessible legal information and fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. Through their tireless pursuit of both legal expertise and social responsibility, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to shape a more just and equitable future.
