Costa Rican education experienced an innovative milestone with the first edition of InterTok: Heroes of Technology, an event that allowed 256 students from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) to deepen their understanding of the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the corporate world. This initiative was led by Demain Foundationby Demain Foundation IB Compass and America Free Zone (AFZ), creating a high-level educational space where academic knowledge connected with the realities of the business sector.

Over two days, students from 16 public and private schools around the country participated in keynote lectures, corporate visits, and academic challenges focused on AI. The event took place at AFZ’s facilities, which opened their doors and enabled multiple companies to share their experiences of applying AI in their operations.

“Promoting transformative education requires connecting theory with practice, and this event proves that when students have access to real learning environments, their potential multiplies,” said Andrea Cartín Berrocal, Executive Director of Demain Foundation. “Thanks to companies like AFZ, HP, Tebra, Baxter, Valor Global, Spectraforce, and many others, the youth had a unique formative experience that strengthens their critical and global outlook.”

The participants, selected for their high performance and interest in technology, analyzed a real case study and proposed applicable solutions in corporate contexts. The most outstanding ideas were recognized by a specialized jury, acknowledging the students’ creativity, analytical skills, and strategic thinking.

“For IB Compass, these inter-school activities are essential because they give students the tools to use their knowledge and skills in real-life situations, in pursuit of a quality international education,” said Alejandra Fernández, directora ejecutiva de IB Compass, a partner foundation that supports both public and private education through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). 

The activity was enriched by a lecture from Dr. Juan Carlos Barahona from INCAE, and the support of partners such as Any2Cloud, Coopeguanacaste, and Horizonte Positivo. All of this aligned with the vision of strengthening quality education in Costa Rica through multi-sectoral partnerships, thus promoting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), digital literacy, and equitable access to learning opportunities.