The initiative was launched by the IDB, IICA, the Government of Costa Rica and Microsoft, with a donation of 1.2 million dollars from the Special Fund for Poverty Reduction Program (JPO) of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The partnership is aiming to develop an educational model that incorporates the needs of rural areas into the curriculum of rural schools and to heighten interest in agriculture-related professional careers.

In a letter addressed to the President, Otero referred to the key role of international cooperation in mitigating and overcoming the hardships facing countries in the Americas, such as climate change and mass migration. Otero also underscored IICA’s joint work with the government, the private sector and universities in the United States.

Organizations from Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and the Dominican Republic shared their experiences during a regional meeting organized by the project.

Experts addressing a panel discussion organized by Costa Rica’s Permanent Mission to the WTO, revealed that the country’s agricultural exports had increased, benefitting the rural economy and increasing food security.

An IICA webinar on connectivity in Brazil analyzed the connectivity gaps brought to light by recent studies. Only half of this South American country’s rural population has internet access. A new law is aiming to drive investments.

It was aired by 928 stations in more than 50 countries in 2020 and more than 1,150 new subscribers registered to its digital platforms.