STEAM education initiatives expand technical training for women in Costa Rica and Peru

Educational initiatives in Costa Rica and Peru are focusing on increasing female participation in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and non-traditional technical fields.

In Costa Rica, the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA) reported that 900 women received training in 2025 in sectors historically dominated by men, such as mechanics, electricity, and construction. To support this, the INA has provided financial aid to over 2,800 women for STEAM-related programs over the last three years, covering more than 75 educational tracks.

In Peru, the Sociedad Minera Cerro Verde operates a robotics STEAM program benefiting 1,091 students across five districts in Arequipa. The program has achieved a 58% female participation rate, with 638 female students enrolled. This initiative aims to bridge the gender gap and provide technological tools to public schools in Uchumayo, Tiabaya, Yarabamba, La Joya, and Matarani.