CATIE and INTA sign agreement to strengthen research and professional training in Costa Rica’s agricultural sector

• The agreement will promote technical and scientific training programs to enhance knowledge and technology transfer in the sector.

CATIE (Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center) and the National Institute for Innovation and Transfer in Agricultural Technology (INTA) of Costa Rica have signed a framework cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening the academic and technical training of INTA’s professional staff, as well as fostering joint research on key issues for national and regional agricultural development.

This strategic agreement includes the participation of INTA staff in master's programs and modular training courses offered by CATIE’s Graduate School.

Additionally, it will allow them to update and deepen their knowledge in areas such as tropical crops, food security, and livestock activities. It also seeks to enhance the quality of scientific research conducted by both institutions, promoting the development of new agricultural technologies to serve the productive sector of Costa Rica and the Latin American region.

“The agreement with INTA represents an opportunity for professionals in the agricultural sector to strengthen their academic and scientific credentials, with an impact at both the local and international levels. This will directly benefit producers and contribute to the sustainability of agri-food systems in the country and the region,” said Dr. Luis Pocasangre, Director General of CATIE.

During the opening ceremony of the 2025-2026 academic cycle at CATIE’s Graduate School, where INTA Director Dr. Roberto Camacho was the guest of honor, it was announced that 10 INTA professionals have already been selected to be part of this new cohort of master’s students. “We appreciate the continued support of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in training specialized human talent, and we celebrate the beginning of this alliance that will strengthen INTA and Costa Rica’s agricultural sector,” added Dr. Pocasangre.

The agreement also includes the development of joint technical and scientific training programs, targeting staff members, technicians, producers, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector, contributing to improved knowledge and technology transfer in the field.