Reform of the Organic Law of the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (Costa Rica): the beginning of a privatization disguised as “development”

Abstract

This study critically analyzes the effects of neoliberalism on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Costa Rica, particularly following the reform of the Organic Law of the National Learning Institute (INA) through Law 9931. Using a documentary and analytical approach, it examines how the neoliberal discourse—based on the premise that the private sector delivers better goods, services, and working conditions than the public sector—has guided legislative reforms promoting the
privatization of public institutions in Latin America. In the case of INA, a shift toward a quasi-market model is evident, especially through Articles 18 and 21 bis, which allow private companies to provide educational services funded by public resources. Additionally, Article 24, declared unconstitutional, is discussed for undermining labor rights. The study concludes that there is an urgent need to foster critical research on TVET in Costa Rica that promotes an educational model capable of addressing social,
national, and regional demands with justice and equity.