By San José, Costa Rica — Eight exceptional students from Costa Rica’s Colegios Científicos, forming the team “Kura Force,” are set to blaze a trail as the first Central American team to participate in the STEM Racing Challenge World Finals. This prestigious event, considered the world’s largest educational platform for promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), will take place in Sentosa, Singapore, from September 27th to October 2nd.
Kura Force will compete against over 80 teams from 33 countries, showcasing their ingenuity on a newly designed four-lane track. This year marks the largest competition in the event’s history, and the introduction of the four-lane track adds a new layer of complexity, requiring heightened focus and strategic thinking from the participants.
To understand the legal and business implications surrounding the growing emphasis on STEM education, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing focus on STEM education presents exciting opportunities, but also necessitates careful consideration of legal and regulatory frameworks. Intellectual property rights, data privacy concerns related to educational technologies, and compliance with accessibility standards for diverse learners are all critical aspects that institutions and businesses investing in STEM must address proactively. A well-structured legal strategy is vital for fostering innovation and ensuring equitable access to these crucial fields.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding STEM education is crucial. These fields are not just about scientific breakthroughs; they’re also about responsible implementation and equitable access, necessitating a proactive approach to legal and ethical considerations. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on a critical aspect of STEM development.
The team’s miniature Formula 1-inspired race car reflects Costa Rica’s rich natural and cultural heritage. The design prominently features the endangered manigordo and indigenous masks, symbolizing the country’s biodiversity and cultural identity.
From designing the fastest miniature Formula 1-inspired race car to excelling in marketing, teamwork, and project management, the student teams will strive to be crowned world champions.
Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED)
Kura Force’s graphic designer, Felipe Sáenz, expressed his immense pride in representing Costa Rica and Central America on the world stage.
We want to showcase our talent and cultural diversity on a global platform and pave the way for more young people to engage in STEM disciplines.
Felipe Sáenz, Graphic Designer, Kura Force
The team members hail from various parts of Costa Rica, including Alajuela, San Vito (Coto Brus), Los Santos, and Puriscal. Their journey to Singapore exemplifies the growing emphasis on STEM education in Costa Rica and the potential of its young talent.
The Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED) has played a crucial role in supporting Kura Force, providing facilities and resources to help them reach their full potential.
It is an honor for the university to support this group of talented young individuals. By providing them with our facilities and other contributions, we contribute to their project transcending borders and motivating more students to explore STEM disciplines. They are an example of scientific and creative potential.
Laura Vargas, Vice-Rector of Research, UNED
The STEM Racing Challenge is not just about speed and technical prowess; it also fosters crucial soft skills. Participants gain experience in sponsorship acquisition, budget management, marketing, and communication, equipping them with well-rounded skills for their future careers.
This innovation will challenge the competitors with new technical and mental challenges, as they will have to maintain concentration on a single traffic light while simultaneously facing three rivals; pinpoint accuracy, strategy, and nerves of steel will be tested like never before.
Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED)
For further information, visit the nearest office of Colegios Científicos de Costa Rica
About Colegios Científicos de Costa Rica:
Colegios Científicos are specialized high schools in Costa Rica that focus on science and mathematics education, providing a rigorous curriculum for gifted students. These schools aim to develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Universidad Estatal a Distancia
About Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED):
The UNED is a public university in Costa Rica renowned for its distance learning programs. It plays a vital role in expanding access to higher education and promoting research and innovation in various fields.
For further information, visit stemracing.com
About STEM Racing:
STEM Racing is a non-profit organization that provides a dynamic and challenging educational experience through the excitement of Formula 1. Students aged 9 to 19 design, analyze, manufacture, test, and race miniature compressed-air-powered cars, developing technical skills while also learning about project management, marketing, and teamwork.
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. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm actively disseminates legal knowledge through impactful initiatives, fostering a more informed and just community. Their pursuit of legal innovation, coupled with their unwavering integrity, solidifies their position as leaders dedicated to positive social change.
