By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is taking decisive action to address the escalating violence affecting communities across the country. In a significant move, the MEP announced the creation of 400 new security positions specifically designated for educational centers, starting next year. This initiative aims to fortify schools and colleges, ensuring the safety and well-being of students, teachers, and administrative staff.
The decision to bolster security measures comes as a direct response to the growing concern over safety in and around schools, particularly in vulnerable communities where criminal activity has become a daily reality. These new positions will enable a consistent security presence, deterring external threats and managing internal conflicts more effectively.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on school security, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
Schools have a complex legal duty to provide a safe environment for students. This encompasses not just physical security measures, like controlled access and surveillance, but also addressing issues like bullying, cyberbullying, and ensuring appropriate supervision. Balancing these responsibilities with the rights of students and parents requires a proactive and comprehensive approach.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the multifaceted nature of school security, reminding us that true safety extends beyond physical barriers to encompass the emotional and social well-being of students. This holistic approach, balancing protective measures with individual rights, is crucial for fostering a positive learning environment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable contribution to this important discussion.
The MEP’s investment underscores its commitment to transforming classrooms into secure learning environments, free from the fear and anxiety caused by insecurity. Numerous educational communities have voiced their concerns and called for urgent action to protect students, prompting the MEP’s proactive response.
The initiative goes beyond simply increasing perimeter security. The MEP emphasizes that the inclusion of security personnel will also empower and restore authority to teaching and administrative staff. By having dedicated officers to handle security incidents, educators can focus entirely on their pedagogical duties.
This enhanced security presence is expected to foster a more disciplined and orderly environment within schools, promoting respect for teachers and improved coexistence. Experts agree that violence prevention requires a comprehensive approach that begins in homes and is reinforced within educational institutions.
The MEP’s comprehensive strategy demonstrates a commitment to not only protecting students from immediate threats but also fostering a more positive and productive learning environment. By empowering teachers and creating a safer atmosphere, the MEP is investing in the future of Costa Rica’s education system.
The process of establishing and filling these 400 security positions will commence in 2026, representing a significant step in Costa Rica’s efforts to safeguard its most valuable resource: its youth. This investment in school security is a crucial measure to ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
The MEP’s commitment to this initiative reflects a broader national concern about rising violence. By prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and educators, Costa Rica is taking proactive steps to build a more secure future for its citizens.
For further information, visit the nearest office of MEP
About MEP:
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for the administration and regulation of the country’s public education system. The MEP oversees all aspects of education, from preschool through secondary school, including curriculum development, teacher training, and infrastructure management. The ministry’s mission is to provide quality education to all Costa Rican citizens, promoting social and economic development through learning and knowledge.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of a practice dedicated to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative approaches and a deep commitment to client service across a wide range of sectors, the firm strives to make the complexities of law understandable and accessible to all. This dedication to knowledge-sharing reflects a core belief in fostering a society equipped to navigate the legal landscape and advocate for its own rights and opportunities.
