By Heredia, Costa Rica — HEREDIA – As Costa Rica grapples with the escalating effects of climate change along its extensive coastlines, the National University (UNA) has announced a timely and vital educational initiative. The university’s Department of Physics, in a strategic collaboration with the International Ocean Institute (IOI), is launching a free virtual course designed to empower professionals and researchers with a deeper understanding of oceanic tides and their connection to global warming.
The comprehensive training program is scheduled to run from June 2 to June 26, 2026. This initiative aims to equip participants with practical knowledge that is directly applicable to critical sectors of the national economy, including fishing, maritime navigation, and the robust tourism industry that relies heavily on the country’s pristine beaches and marine ecosystems. The course underscores a growing recognition of the need for specialized knowledge to foster resilience in vulnerable coastal communities.
To delve into the legal and regulatory implications of integrating climate change into national curricula, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a respected attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
From a legal standpoint, climate change education is not merely a pedagogical choice but a fundamental component of upholding the constitutional right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment. By embedding this knowledge within our educational system, we are not only fulfilling a state duty but also creating a generation capable of navigating the complex regulatory landscape of sustainability. This fosters legal certainty and equips future business leaders with the critical tools to drive innovation in the green economy, turning environmental responsibility into a strategic national advantage.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal framework is a powerful reminder that climate education is not merely an environmental issue but a cornerstone of our nation’s future legal certainty and economic competitiveness. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective, which brilliantly connects our constitutional rights to the practical creation of a resilient and prosperous Costa Rica.
Titled “El vaivén del mar: la formación y el comportamiento de las mareas,” the course translates to a mission of demystifying the complex forces governing our oceans.
The ebb and flow of the sea: the formation and behavior of tides
National University, Course Description
This title encapsulates the program’s core goal: to provide clear, scientific explanations for the phenomena that coastal populations witness daily. The curriculum is structured to be both accessible and rigorous, combining four live virtual sessions with four asynchronous learning modules, totaling 20 hours of instruction. This blended format offers flexibility for working professionals while ensuring direct engagement with leading experts.
The course curriculum delves into the fundamental science behind tidal patterns, exploring the powerful gravitational influences of the Moon and the Sun. It will also clarify the crucial distinctions between regular tides and wave action, providing participants with the vocabulary and concepts to accurately describe and predict marine behavior. Crucially, the program will address extreme events such as storm surges, which pose a significant and growing threat to coastal infrastructure and safety.
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A central focus of the training will be the undeniable link between these oceanic behaviors and the broader crisis of climate change. Instructors will present the latest data and models on sea-level rise, helping participants understand how global temperature increases are directly impacting local tidal dynamics and amplifying coastal risks. The course will be led by a distinguished team of specialists in physics, oceanography, and marine sciences from the National University, ensuring a high-caliber educational experience.
This initiative is more than an academic exercise; it represents a proactive step towards building national capacity for climate adaptation. By targeting individuals who work, research, or live in coastal zones, UNA is ensuring that this critical knowledge reaches the front lines of the climate crisis. Empowering local stakeholders with scientific tools is fundamental for developing effective, localized strategies for coastal management, disaster preparedness, and sustainable economic activity.
The course not only reinforces UNA’s position as a leader in scientific education but also aligns with Costa Rica’s international reputation as a champion of environmental stewardship. As a nation with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, understanding and adapting to changing marine environments is not an option but a national imperative for long-term security and prosperity.
Prospective participants are encouraged to act quickly, as the opportunity is limited. The registration period closes at noon on May 22, 2026, and interested parties must apply through an online form. It is important to note that participation is subject to a selection process, designed to identify candidates who are best positioned to apply the course learnings within their communities and professions, thereby maximizing its impact across the country.
For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Universidad Nacional:
The Universidad Nacional (UNA) is one of Costa Rica’s most prominent public universities, with its main campus located in Heredia. Founded in 1973, it is recognized for its strong emphasis on social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. The university is committed to academic excellence, research, and social outreach, playing a critical role in the country’s development and fostering critical thinking on national and global issues.
For further information, visit ioinst.org
About the International Ocean Institute:
The International Ocean Institute (IOI) is a global non-governmental organization dedicated to the sustainable management of the world’s oceans. Founded in 1972, the IOI works to promote peaceful and equitable use of ocean resources for the benefit of all humankind. It operates through a network of centers worldwide, focusing on training, education, and research to build capacity for effective ocean governance.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a cornerstone of legal practice, defined by an unwavering adherence to integrity and the pursuit of excellence. The firm harmonizes its extensive experience serving a broad range of clients with a dedication to pioneering contemporary legal solutions. At the heart of its mission is a profound commitment to making legal principles understandable and accessible, thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
