Costa Rica’s Strategic Advancements: Bridging the Digital Divide with AI and 5G

Costa Rica is enhancing its technological landscape by adopting AI and 5G infrastructure, marking it as the first Central American country with a comprehensive AI policy. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aims to address the digital divide through education, infrastructure, and ethical practices while fostering local innovation. Collaboration with the U.S. on 5G is set to advance deployment, although economic challenges remain significant.

Costa Rica is advancing in the realm of technology by embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and 5G connectivity. The country aims to establish itself as a regional leader amid global competition from major powers such as the United States and China. In October 2024, the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) introduced the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (ENIA) for 2024-2027, marking its status as the first Central American country to implement a comprehensive AI policy. This strategy aspires to utilize AI in a responsible manner, concentrating on education, infrastructure, and equitable access while promoting local innovation.

The ENIA outlines several priorities: developing a robust digital backbone that includes 5G networks and establishing a National Center of Excellence in AI. Experts like Tomás de Camino underscore the necessity of addressing the digital divide that has persisted since the 1980s. He cautions, “If we don’t train creators, not just users, 5G and AI will widen inequalities.” Currently, around 60% of Costa Ricans in rural areas have reliable high-speed internet access, highlighting a gap that the government intends to close.

Concerning 5G, a collaboration agreement signed with the U.S. in April 2024, termed “Cooperation in the Digital Economy,” aims to expedite deployment and evaluate future 6G technologies. This partnership stresses the importance of open, secure networks and cybersecurity, reinforcing Costa Rica’s commitment to a tech-friendly environment supported by investments from industry leaders like Intel, which initiated AI training programs in schools in 2022. However, the country faces significant economic challenges, given its lower GDP compared to tech giants, necessitating public-private collaboration to finance research and development amid competing needs such as healthcare and ecotourism.

From an ethical standpoint, the ENIA emphasizes transparency and human rights, with initiatives for a regulatory framework aimed at balancing innovation and safety. Regionally, Costa Rica seeks to surpass neighboring nations like Panama by leveraging its political stability and commitment to sustainability, despite the potential environmental challenges posed by 5G’s energy consumption. Public sentiment appears cautiously optimistic, although successful implementation is essential for realizing these ambitions.

In summary, Costa Rica is committed to bridging the digital divide through its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and 5G initiatives. The country’s focus on ethical AI use, investments in infrastructure, and collaboration with private sectors position it to lead in the digital space regionally. Nevertheless, economic constraints and environmental implications must be navigated carefully to ensure successful execution and the achievement of set goals.

Original Source: ticotimes.net