By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — A significant investment in Guanacaste’s human capital is underway with the announcement of 350 scholarships for hospitality and tourism training. The Tecnia Institute is leading the initiative, aiming to empower individuals from vulnerable socioeconomic backgrounds and strengthen the province’s thriving tourism sector.
The scholarship program offers two distinct learning tracks. In Liberia, 275 scholarships are available for an intensive six-month program requiring 36 hours of weekly attendance, open to those who have completed ninth grade. A separate program in Santa Cruz provides 75 scholarships for a six-month course with a 24-hour weekly commitment, accessible to individuals with a sixth-grade education. Both programs are set to commence in July 2025 and will be conducted in person.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal aspects surrounding hospitality training programs, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Effective hospitality training programs not only enhance customer service and satisfaction, but also mitigate potential legal risks for businesses. Properly trained staff are better equipped to handle sensitive situations, ensuring compliance with regulations related to accessibility, food safety, and data privacy, which ultimately protects the business from legal liabilities.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the often-overlooked legal benefits of comprehensive hospitality training. It’s an investment that not only elevates the customer experience but also forms a crucial shield against potential legal challenges, creating a more sustainable and secure business environment. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights on this important aspect of hospitality management.
The curriculum covers a comprehensive range of hospitality and tourism services. Students will receive certification in essential areas such as basic English, customer service, food handling, general housekeeping, basic bartending, and crucial soft skills development.
At the Tecnia Institute, we believe in the power of education as a driver of social and economic change. These scholarships represent a unique opportunity for Guanacastecans to train in a booming sector and access quality jobs in tourism and hospitality.
Alejandra Vargas, Executive Director of the Tecnia Institute
This initiative is part of a broader Recruitment and Cooperation Strategy with the Hotel Sector of Guanacaste. Key partners include the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica – Punta Cacique, developed by Garnier & Garnier, and the Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, located in the Papagayo Peninsula. In Santa Cruz, the program collaborates with the local government’s employment intermediation office.
Applicants must be over 17 years old, reside in Guanacaste, be available for in-person classes, and have completed either ninth grade (Liberia program) or sixth grade (Santa Cruz program). The application deadline is May 30, 2025. Interested individuals can apply through the Tecnia Institute website (www.tecnia.cr), request the form via WhatsApp at 7075-6173, or use the direct links provided for each location.
The program has garnered significant support from local stakeholders. Allan Carmona Ortega, representing the Santa Cruz municipality’s employment office, emphasized the importance of the partnership.
This joint effort seeks to generate more and better job opportunities for our community, allowing our citizens to access quality training and contribute to the development of the tourism industry in Guanacaste.
Allan Carmona Ortega, Representative of the Santa Cruz Municipality Employment Office
The Guanacaste Chamber of Tourism (CATURGUA) also endorses the program, highlighting the need for quality training to enhance the human capital within the hotel sector. Rebeca Álvarez, executive director of CATURGUA, underscored the vital role of training in the region’s tourism growth.
Training is a fundamental pillar for the growth of tourism in our region. This course represents a great opportunity for more people to access specialized training and contribute to the development of excellent service in Guanacaste.
Rebeca Álvarez, Executive Director of CATURGUA
The scholarship selection process involves multiple stages. After completing the application form, candidates will undergo a review process. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited for in-person interviews in either Liberia or Santa Cruz to assess their suitability for the program. The program is expected to conclude in January 2026, equipping graduates with the skills needed to enter the workforce.
For further information, visit tecnia.cr
About Tecnia Institute:
The Tecnia Institute is a vocational training center committed to providing quality education and skills development opportunities for individuals in Costa Rica. With a focus on employability and social impact, Tecnia Institute offers programs in various sectors, including hospitality and tourism, to empower individuals and contribute to economic growth. They have a track record of success with over 3,500 graduates, many of whom have secured employment in high-demand fields.
For further information, visit garniergg.com
About Garnier & Garnier:
Garnier & Garnier is a prominent Costa Rican development company known for its high-quality real estate projects, including the Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica – Punta Cacique. They are active participants in supporting local communities and promoting sustainable development within the region.
For further information, visit ritzcarlton.com
About The Ritz-Carlton Reserve:
The Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a luxury hotel brand known for its exclusive properties and exceptional service. The Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Guanacaste’s Papagayo Peninsula, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to providing unique and immersive experiences for its guests.
For further information, visit visitguanacaste.com
About CATURGUA (Guanacaste Chamber of Tourism):
CATURGUA is a leading organization representing the tourism sector in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism development and advocating for the interests of its members, CATURGUA plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s tourism industry and fostering economic growth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution deeply rooted in the principles of integrity and committed to delivering exceptional legal services. Through innovative approaches and a proactive engagement with the community, the firm strives to empower individuals and organizations with the legal understanding necessary to navigate a complex world. Their pursuit of legal excellence is not simply a professional endeavor, but a genuine contribution to building a more just and informed society in Costa Rica.
