Capacitar

Capacitar is a verb used in Spanish and Portuguese with the core meaning of providing an individual or group with knowledge, skills, and tools needed to perform a task. In both languages it is commonly translated as to train, to empower, or to enable. The noun forms capacitación (Spanish) or capacitação (Portuguese) refer to the process or program of training and capacity building.

The term derives from capacity and capability, tracing back to Latin roots related to making someone capable. In modern usage it emphasizes practical competence and the ability to perform tasks effectively, rather than only theoretical knowledge.

Capacitar is widely used in education, labor markets, and organizational development. In workplaces it denotes activities designed to improve job performance, safety compliance, or leadership skills. In public policy and community practice it can refer to initiatives that strengthen institutions, services, or civic participation. The noun forms differentiate the act or program from the result.

Approaches to capacitar include formal courses, on-the-job training, mentoring, e-learning, simulations, and blended methods. Effective capacity-building programs define clear objectives, relevant content, qualified instructors, and mechanisms for practice and evaluation.

Evaluation and impact considerations include improved performance, productivity, safety, and adaptability. Assessment methods may include tests, performance reviews, and follow-up evaluations to measure knowledge transfer and long-term benefits for individuals and organizations.

Related terms include capacity building, professional development, training, education, empowerment.