By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s rural youth are taking center stage in reshaping the nation’s agricultural landscape. On August 12th, in celebration of Rural Youth Day, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), through the National Council of 4S Clubs (CONAC 4S), highlighted the contributions of 804 young people (382 women and 422 men) who are leading transformative agricultural initiatives across the country.
Between 2024 and the first half of 2025, CONAC 4S invested ₡88 million (approximately $155,000 USD) in programs designed to actively include young people in sustainable agricultural production. This investment has funded 20 productive projects through non-reimbursable seed capital, fueling youth-led ventures that generate employment, foster innovation, and encourage a deeper connection to their rural communities.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding rural youth empowerment initiatives, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Empowering rural youth requires not only providing educational and economic opportunities, but also ensuring they have access to legal resources and understand their rights. This includes land ownership rights, access to government programs, and protection against exploitation. Clear legal frameworks and accessible legal aid are essential for creating a sustainable and equitable environment for rural youth to thrive.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly emphasizes the crucial role of legal empowerment alongside economic and educational opportunities. Secure access to legal resources and a clear understanding of their rights are fundamental building blocks for rural youth to build successful futures and contribute meaningfully to their communities. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable perspective on the multifaceted nature of rural youth empowerment.
The initiative has yielded impressive results. It has strengthened rural youth leadership and employment, recognizing their vital role in national food security. Access to technology and technical training has empowered these young individuals to successfully implement their productive projects. Furthermore, the program has enhanced their capacity to manage sustainable agriculture and integrate value chains, enabling them to offer regional food baskets that contribute to healthier diets.
The program also prioritizes intergenerational collaboration. By creating mechanisms that favor generational integration, CONAC 4S ensures the continuity and competitiveness of food production in rural areas.
This investment is not just about the future of agriculture; it’s about recognizing the significant contributions young people are making right now. Their commitment, knowledge, and creativity are driving the transformation of Costa Rica’s food systems towards greater sustainability, fairness, and inclusivity.
The projects range from innovative farming techniques to the development of local markets, showcasing the diverse ways in which young people are contributing to the agricultural sector. The success of these initiatives demonstrates the potential of investing in rural youth as a catalyst for positive change in Costa Rica’s agricultural landscape.
This celebration reinforces the idea that rural youth are not just the future of the countryside; they are its present. With commitment, knowledge, and creativity, they are transforming food systems to make them more sustainable, just, and inclusive.
The initiative’s focus on sustainability aligns with Costa Rica’s national commitment to environmental protection and responsible agricultural practices. By empowering young people to lead the way in sustainable agriculture, the country is investing in a future where food production and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG)
About Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG):
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is a governmental institution in Costa Rica responsible for the development and regulation of the agricultural sector. It works to promote sustainable agricultural practices, support farmers, and ensure food security for the nation.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Council of 4S Clubs (CONAC 4S)
About National Council of 4S Clubs (CONAC 4S):
The National Council of 4S Clubs (CONAC 4S) is a Costa Rican organization that promotes youth development in rural areas through agricultural and community-based projects. The “4S” stands for Saber (Knowledge), Sentir (Feeling), Servir (Service), and Salud (Health), representing the core values of the organization. CONAC 4S works to empower young people to become leaders in their communities and contribute to the sustainable development of rural Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a deep-seated dedication to empowering communities through accessible legal knowledge, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By fostering transparency and understanding within the legal sphere, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more just and informed society.
