In the 21^st century, basic computer and Internet skills have become intrinsic tools of literacy.

In San Rafael de Heredia, a group of 25 students learn those important skills at a community center twice a week. The ages of the students ranges from 13 to 80, and the instructor is a young man performing community service as part of his university degree requirements. This computer skills course teaches students the basics of popular software packages like Microsoft Office, effective web browsing and proper email etiquette.

As part of an initiative by the Ministry of Science and Technology, around 20 Smart Community Centers (Spanish acronym: CECI) will be relaunched this year across Costa Rica. The first CECI opened in San Rafael in August of 2007, and since that time the community has made excellent use of the center. For that reason, Alejandro Cruz, Minister of Science and Technology, recently presented the CECI in San Rafael with six new computer systems and presided over a reopening ceremony.

At the event, which was also attended by Vice Minister Keilor Rojas, Minister Cruz stated:

“The effort this community has undertaken shall be a model for other communities around the country. This relaunching is emblematic; we want to let people in Costa Rica know that it is necessary to bring technology into our communities. It is important that we have tools like the CECIs, the courses imparted therein, and libraries to bring knowledge to more people each day, so that we can truly become citizens of the 21^st century.”

Since the inauguration of the CECI in San Rafael, located in the library of the community development center, almost 50 computer literacy courses have been imparted.

The CECI at San Rafael has six computers donated by the Ministry, which were upgraded for the relaunching, and six more provided by the community development association.

Jorge Isaac Herrera, Mayor of San Rafael was at the ceremony, and he indicated that on top of the computer literacy and education efforts in this community of 47,000 residents, access to recreational activities, and health initiatives are also needed to improve quality of life.

Source: Ministry of Science and Technology