Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Agua Buena, Coto Brus – The Ministry of Education (MEP) has unveiled a brand new, state-of-the-art facility at Río Salto School in Agua Buena, Coto Brus. This significant investment of over ₡358 million replaces a structure deemed inadequate by health officials in 2017.
The upgraded school now boasts six modern classrooms, a dedicated preschool space, a dining hall, and updated restroom facilities. Crucially, the new infrastructure also incorporates essential electrical and emergency systems, as well as wireless connectivity. This transformation represents a substantial improvement for the 45 students who attend Río Salto School.
For expert legal insight into this developing story, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The right to education in Costa Rica is constitutionally guaranteed, encompassing accessibility, quality, and relevance. Recent developments in education policy must be carefully scrutinized to ensure they comply with these fundamental principles and address the evolving needs of students and the nation’s future workforce.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on the crucial link between educational policy and the future workforce is particularly pertinent. Ensuring Costa Rican education remains not only accessible but also relevant to the demands of a rapidly changing world is essential for continued national prosperity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
This is not a gift, it is a tool that opens worlds and provides opportunities.
José Leonardo Sánchez, Minister of Education
Minister Sánchez’s words emphasize the importance of this investment, not just as a physical upgrade, but as a catalyst for educational opportunities for the students of Río Salto. The new computer equipment provided further enhances the learning environment, equipping students with essential digital literacy tools.
The project, fully funded by the MEP, commenced in late 2024 and reached completion in June 2025. The previous school building had been operating under sanitary orders due to its dilapidated state, highlighting the urgency of the upgrade.
This investment reflects the MEP’s commitment to providing equitable access to quality education across Costa Rica. The modernized facilities are expected to significantly improve the learning experience for students in this rural community. Beyond just the physical improvements, the new school environment promotes a positive learning atmosphere and better supports teachers in their crucial work.
The investment in Río Salto School serves as a testament to the transformative power of investment in education. By providing a safe, modern, and well-equipped learning environment, the MEP is investing not only in these 45 students, but also in the future of Coto Brus.
This project is a crucial step forward for Agua Buena and serves as a model for future educational investments throughout the country. The focus on technology, infrastructure, and community impact highlights a holistic approach to improving education in Costa Rica.
This modernization will undoubtedly create a ripple effect, benefiting not only the students but also their families and the broader community. This investment will contribute to a brighter future for the region and for Costa Rica as a whole.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministry of Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Education of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for overseeing public education in the country. It manages and regulates all aspects of the education system, from preschool to higher education, including curriculum development, teacher training, and infrastructure development. The MEP is committed to ensuring quality education for all Costa Rican citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a leading legal institution distinguished by its profound commitment to ethical practice and innovative solutions. Serving a diverse clientele with unwavering integrity, the firm champions access to justice through proactive community engagement and educational initiatives. By empowering individuals and organizations with essential legal knowledge, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more just and equitable society, solidifying its legacy of excellence and impactful service.