Strengthening local capacities to improve the quality of life and strengthen socio-productive stability in the Osa Peninsula: linked actions for sustainable development and territorial ownership (FOCAL: Phase II)

The canton of Puerto Jiménez and surrounding communities in the canton of Osa received interdisciplinary support between the second semester of 2023 and the first semester of 2025, with the aim of strengthening local capacities aimed at economic recovery and improving quality of life through sustainable development actions and the strengthening of sociocultural identity. Through the initial coordination between the National University and the University of Costa Rica through the first phase of the FOCAL-PJ project, as well as the progressive incorporation of other university entities organically, substantial achievements were made that contributed to the fulfillment of the project's objectives in line with the SDGs and PLANES. However, despite the progress made, the Osa Peninsula continues to require support in areas that, as evidenced in the first phase, require continuity and reinforcement, or their inclusion in this new formulation. Within this framework, four priority action areas are outlined, reflected in the specific objectives: 1. Productive and value chain linkages: The objective is to consolidate and expand linkages, as well as support and guidance in the creation of value chains in the areas of community tourism, crafts, and agricultural projects, promoting their expansion throughout the peninsula. In the first phase, a sectoral assessment was conducted, the results of which reveal new needs to be addressed. 2. Education and technical training: The objective is to promote guidance, motivation, and guidance for the population in accessing and updating technical and university studies in disciplines relevant to territorial demands (such as land use planning), complemented by training in occupational safety, environmental health, and risk management. This line of action responds to the critical situation of Costa Rican education in the Brunca region, and particularly in the intervention territory. It is essential to promote and support the vocational training of young people with guidance or guidance in the areas of greatest demand throughout the peninsula. 3. Environmental Management and Education: Local environmental management will be supported in conjunction with biodiversity protection processes, incorporating applied environmental education initiatives that include waste management, agroecological practices, and the promotion of safe and sustainable lifestyles. 4. Infrastructure and Public Services: Finally, the comprehensive planning and management of road infrastructure, bridges, public services (drinking water and sanitation), and the landscape will be supported, with a view to sustainable local development and in line with the territorial planning processes of the Osa Peninsula. This project articulates the joint efforts of the five public universities through the integration of various academic units with experience and a track record in each of the established dimensions, as well as extensive knowledge of the area, social actors, and territorial dynamics.

Promote the formation of community-based organizations, productive sectors and local governments through a series of strategic actions addressed in an inter and transdisciplinary manner, which seek social well-being, sustainable and sustainable development of the Osa Peninsula.

School of Construction Engineering:
Urban Planning, Land Use Planning, and Human Settlements
Water Resources and the Environment