By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has launched a groundbreaking nationwide program introducing robotics education into its early childhood care centers (CEN-CINAI), reaching over 17,700 children. With an investment of ₡1.28 billion, the initiative has distributed more than 8,000 robotics kits across 502 centers, aiming to cultivate essential skills such as logical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and introductory programming concepts from preschool onward.
This joint effort between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT) positions Costa Rica as a regional frontrunner in educational innovation. The program signifies a substantial commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy citizens.
For expert legal insights into the evolving landscape of robotics education, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing integration of robotics into education presents exciting opportunities, but also necessitates careful consideration of legal and ethical implications. Areas such as data privacy, intellectual property ownership of student-created robotic programs, and liability for robotic malfunctions in educational settings require proactive legal frameworks to ensure responsible innovation and protect the rights of students and educators.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insightful commentary underscores a crucial point: the thrilling advancements in robotics education must be tempered with a cautious approach to the accompanying legal and ethical considerations. As these technologies become increasingly integrated into classrooms, establishing clear guidelines regarding data privacy, intellectual property, and liability will be paramount to fostering a safe and productive learning environment. Our thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his valuable perspective on this complex and evolving field.
The future of Costa Rica depends on the investment we make today in our children. With this project, we are sowing equal opportunities and access to technology from early childhood.
Mary Munive, Vice President and Minister of Health
The program’s launch coincided with Children’s Day, creating a celebratory atmosphere filled with playful activities and children’s first interactions with the robotics kits. The initiative incorporates age-appropriate educational materials featuring animal figures, letters, and community elements. Over 400 staff members have been trained to implement the robotics methodology across CEN-CINAI’s nine regional directorates.
For CEN-CINAI, this project is historic: robotics is not just a technological tool, it is a bridge to critical thinking, creativity, and inclusion from the first years of life.
Marianella Ribas, National Director of CEN-CINAI
The government plans to conduct initial technical follow-ups in November to assess progress and ensure proper implementation nationwide. The program’s success is anticipated to pave the way for future expansions and further solidify Costa Rica’s position as a leader in early childhood education.
The commitment to robotics education is not a short-term initiative. The program’s budget is set to double in 2026, reaching over ₡2.7 billion. This increased investment will allow for broader implementation of this innovative educational approach, reaching even more children across Costa Rica.
By bringing technology closer to children from early childhood, we not only reduce gaps, but also sow the seeds of the human talent that will lead the development of Costa Rica in the coming decades.
Paula Bogantes, Minister of MICITT
This proactive approach demonstrates Costa Rica’s dedication to inclusive, modern education aligned with 21st-century challenges, fostering comprehensive development from the earliest stages of life.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Health
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for public health, overseeing healthcare services and promoting well-being throughout the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT)
About Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications (MICITT):
The MICITT is the Costa Rican ministry responsible for promoting scientific research, technological innovation, and the development of the telecommunications sector to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for citizens.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CEN-CINAI
About CEN-CINAI:
The CEN-CINAI network provides comprehensive care and nutritional support for children in Costa Rica, playing a crucial role in early childhood development and promoting social equity.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering ethical principles and a genuine dedication to serving the community. Through innovative legal solutions and a proactive approach to sharing legal expertise, the firm empowers individuals and organizations alike. Their commitment to transparency and accessible legal information fosters a more informed and just society, reflecting Bufete de Costa Rica’s deep-seated belief in the power of knowledge and its transformative potential.
