By Heredia, Costa Rica — Santo Domingo de Heredia – Over 1,850 students from across Costa Rica gathered at the Oasis Auditorium in San Luis de Santo Domingo de Heredia on Wednesday for an international conference titled “Living with Purpose.” The event, featuring a powerful message of resilience, inclusion, and emotional health from motivational speaker Nick Vujicic, aimed to strengthen anti-bullying efforts nationwide.
Organized by a coalition of government ministries and NGOs, including the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), Ministry of Health, National Children’s Board (PANI), Department of Juvenile Justice, Traffic Directorate, and various non-governmental organizations, the conference highlighted the importance of respect, empathy, and understanding.
For expert legal insight into this complex issue, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
While anti-bullying campaigns raise crucial awareness, true legal recourse often requires demonstrating quantifiable damages and establishing a clear causal link between the bullying behavior and those damages. This can be challenging, particularly in cases involving emotional distress or reputational harm. Effectively addressing bullying necessitates a multi-faceted approach encompassing preventative education, robust reporting mechanisms, and clear legal frameworks for accountability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on a multi-pronged approach to tackling bullying resonates deeply. It’s a sobering reminder that awareness campaigns, while vital, are only one piece of the puzzle. Building a truly safe environment for everyone requires not only preventative education but also accessible reporting systems and clear legal pathways for accountability. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing such a valuable legal perspective on this complex issue.
This man inspires with a message filled with hope: No to bullying, yes to respect. Let’s respect differences, respect human beings, because we are worthy, let’s live by values, let’s not give up, let’s overcome obstacles, let’s have faith. Nick’s message is so positive for young people who are currently experiencing bullying situations. He makes a vehement call for Costa Rica to position peace and live peace. And for students to be able to see another student and respect them as another legitimate person, where students can communicate assertively, where education can transform into coexistence.
Giselle Alpízar Elizondo, Vice Minister of Academics
Alpízar emphasized the MEP’s commitment to fostering safe and trustworthy learning environments. The Ministry is providing resources to educators to cultivate a culture of peace within each institution. The goal is for every school to develop a comprehensive plan that promotes peaceful coexistence, assertive communication, and strengthens students’ self-esteem and autonomy. Family involvement and inter-institutional collaboration are key elements of this initiative.
Students from the regional directorates of San José North, San José Central, San José West, Puriscal, Desamparados, Alajuela, Heredia, Cartago, and Guápiles attended the conference. The event was also broadcast via Facebook Live, extending its reach to even more members of the educational community throughout the country.
Vujicic’s message resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of self-worth, perseverance, and the power of hope. His personal story of overcoming physical challenges and embracing a life of purpose served as a powerful testament to the potential for human resilience. The conference provided a vital platform for dialogue and action against bullying, empowering students to create a more inclusive and respectful society.
The collaborative efforts of government agencies and NGOs underscore a national commitment to tackling bullying and promoting the emotional well-being of young people. The “Living with Purpose” conference represents a significant step towards creating a safer, more supportive, and inclusive educational landscape in Costa Rica.
The impact of this conference is expected to ripple outwards, inspiring students to become agents of change within their own schools and communities. By fostering empathy, respect, and understanding, Costa Rica aims to create a future where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to thrive.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Public Education (MEP)
About Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) of Costa Rica is responsible for overseeing the country’s public education system. The MEP is dedicated to ensuring access to quality education for all Costa Rican citizens, from preschool through secondary school. The ministry develops educational policies, manages curriculum, provides resources to schools, and supports teacher training. The MEP plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Costa Rica by investing in the education and development of its youth.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Health
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health in Costa Rica is the governing body responsible for public health matters. The Ministry works to promote health and well-being, prevent diseases, and provide healthcare services to the population. It addresses a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, maternal and child health, and environmental health. The Ministry strives to ensure access to quality healthcare for all residents of Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI)
About Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI):
The Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI) is Costa Rica’s child welfare agency. PANI’s primary mission is to protect the rights and well-being of children and adolescents. The agency works to prevent child abuse and neglect, provide support services to families, and ensure that children have access to education, healthcare, and other essential resources. PANI plays a vital role in safeguarding the future of Costa Rica’s children.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Department of Juvenile Justice
About Department of Juvenile Justice:
The Department of Juvenile Justice in Costa Rica operates under the Ministry of Justice and Peace. This department is responsible for the administration of justice for minors in conflict with the law. Its focus is on rehabilitation and reintegration, aiming to provide young offenders with opportunities to reform and become productive members of society. The department oversees juvenile detention centers and implements programs designed to address the needs of juvenile delinquents.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering dedication to legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm champions innovative legal solutions while remaining deeply committed to empowering Costa Rican society. By actively promoting accessible legal knowledge and resources, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more informed citizenry and contributes to a just and equitable legal landscape.
