By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — Guanacaste, Costa Rica is set to host its first-ever Maker Faire, a two-day festival celebrating creativity, technology, and innovation. From May 24th to 25th, the Coopeguanacaste Convention Center will transform into a hub of ingenuity, showcasing the work of “makers,” students, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. Organized by CENFOTEC University, the event is free and open to the public, anticipating over 500 attendees of all ages.
The Maker Faire promises a diverse range of activities, including raffles, food trucks, workshops, exhibitions, and a national Sumobot championship. The Sumobot competition, scheduled for Sunday, May 25th, will feature student teams from over 20 Guanacaste schools battling it out with their custom-programmed robots. These robots, two of which were donated per team by CENFOTEC and designed by the university’s robotics team, are programmed in Python or C/C++ to strategically attack, defend, and outmaneuver opponents.
To understand the potential legal implications and opportunities surrounding events like Maker Faire Guanacaste, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Events such as Maker Faire Guanacaste are vital for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. From a legal perspective, they present a unique intersection of intellectual property rights, liability considerations for organizers and participants, and potential opportunities for new business ventures. It’s crucial for makers and attendees alike to understand basic IP principles, especially regarding patents, trademarks, and copyrights, to safeguard their creations and avoid infringement. Organizers should also ensure adequate insurance coverage and clear terms of participation to mitigate potential risks. These events represent fertile ground for investment and collaboration, and legal counsel can play a key role in navigating these complexities and maximizing opportunities for growth.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insights offer a crucial reminder that the vibrant creativity on display at Maker Faire Guanacaste thrives best within a framework of legal awareness. Understanding the interplay of intellectual property and liability not only protects individual makers but also strengthens the entire ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship that events like this cultivate. Our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective with TicosLand.com readers.
The event aims to foster a “do-it-yourself” spirit and connect individuals with projects that embody innovation. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn, create, and share their passion for making. Workshops will cover topics ranging from introductory programming for children to exploring industrial robotics for teens. Adults can engage with expert talks on AI, cybersecurity, blockchain technology, and the impact of 5G networks.
The Sumobot competition is a highlight of the event, often described as a “pitched battle” of robots. Students work in teams to develop the best code and strategy for their robots, aiming to push their opponents out of the ring. This competition not only promotes coding skills but also fosters teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
The Maker Faire also offers a rich program of informative talks. Dr. Tomas de Camino will discuss the evolving relationship between AI and humans, while M.Sc. Edgar Zamora Gatgens will address personal and family cybersecurity in the digital age. Other talks will delve into no-code tools, blockchain technology, and the impact of 5G networks.
Our objective is to celebrate the culture of people who build their own things. We are very excited, in this first edition we achieved a good call and participation of schools willing to take on the challenge of programming code in their robots and devising the best combat strategy. It is a party where people of all ages have a unique opportunity in this event to share knowledge and learn or create things with their own hands.
Karla Jiménez, Marketing Director of CENFOTEC University
This inaugural Maker Faire Guanacaste has been recognized as an “Esencial Costa Rica” event and enjoys the support of Coopeguanacaste, the Coopeguanacaste Convention Center, and the Ministry of Public Education. This collaboration underscores the importance of promoting innovation and technology within the region.
The Maker Faire Guanacaste offers a unique opportunity for the community to engage with the latest technological advancements and celebrate the spirit of innovation. It is a platform for learning, sharing, and inspiring the next generation of makers.
For further information, visit cenfotec.ac.cr
About CENFOTEC University:
CENFOTEC University is a driving force behind technological education and innovation in Costa Rica. By organizing the Maker Faire, the university aims to inspire and empower individuals to explore their creativity and contribute to the growing maker culture. The university’s commitment to hands-on learning and practical skills development is evident in the variety of workshops and activities offered at the event.
For further information, visit coopeguanacaste.com
About Coopeguanacaste:
Coopeguanacaste plays a vital role in supporting community initiatives and fostering development in the Guanacaste region. Their support of the Maker Faire, along with providing the Convention Center as the venue, highlights their commitment to promoting education, innovation, and technological advancement within the province.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Education:
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for the nation’s education system. Their support of the Maker Faire Guanacaste demonstrates their commitment to integrating technology and innovation into the educational landscape, fostering crucial skills for students in the 21st century.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a profound commitment to ethical practice and legal excellence, empowering individuals and communities alike. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a history of dedicated service across a diverse clientele, solidifies its position as a leader in the legal landscape. By championing accessible legal knowledge and education, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more informed and empowered society, fostering a stronger foundation of justice and understanding for all.
