Political Participation of Business Organizations in the Construction of the Technical Vocational Education and Training System in Costa Rica between 1980 and 2021

Abstract

This article focuses on the political participation of business groups in shaping the vocational education system in Costa Rica, covering the period from 1980 to 2021. Adopting a configurationist theoretical-methodological approach, the research was based on 14 semi-structured interviews, participatory observation and an analysis of historical documents. The research reveals how political-business groups linked to the attraction of foreign direct investment since 1980 have played a crucial role in defining the roles and functions of the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system in Costa Rica.The process of modernization and reform of the system since the 1980s wasnot onlylimitedtoideological discourse, butwasmaterializedthrough concretepolitical actions. This was translated into specific TVET policies that sought to transform curricula, financing, organization and relations between training institutions and transnational companies. In summary, the article highlights that during the last four decades, transnational business groups have played a decisive role in the configuration of the TVET system in Costa Rica, demonstrating their direct influence inthe formulation and execution of policiesthat have shapedtechnical-vocational education and training in the country.