Dili, September 2, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture (MESSC – Portuguese acronym) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Timor-Leste to strengthen and develop the midwifery curriculum in Timorese universities.
In an interview, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Culture, José Honório da Costa Pereira Jerónimo, stated that the MoU with UNFPA is focused on advancing the midwifery field through curriculum development.
“This memorandum is very important for MESSC because we see that Timor-Leste’s higher education institutions already have midwifery courses, and this collaboration will help us. It is also supported by the Government of Thailand, which backed the signing of this agreement. In addition, Thailand has also provided training to our midwives in the health sector,” said Minister José Honório da Costa Pereira Jerónimo.
The Minister affirmed that MESSC will also establish a memorandum with Thailand, considering their existing support in midwifery and other areas aligned with non-governmental programs.
“I would like to thank UNFPA in Timor-Leste for its technical expertise, which has contributed greatly through higher education cooperation. This partnership is a valuable step in realizing today’s signing,” Minister Jerónimo added.
Meanwhile, UNFPA Representative in Timor-Leste, Navchaa Suren, said that UNFPA feels honored to participate in this important occasion marking the MoU between UNFPA and MESSC.
“UNFPA’s global mandate focuses on creating a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled,” said Navchaa Suren.
Globally, every day around 700 women and 6,300 newborns die during pregnancy and childbirth, most of which are preventable with prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care provided by midwives.
“Global evidence shows that with proper education, training, support, and an enabling environment, midwives can deliver up to 90% of essential sexual, reproductive, maternal, and newborn health services. Investment in midwifery education is among the most effective strategies with the greatest impact in reducing maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity,” emphasized Navchaa Suren.
She highlighted that together with partners, UNFPA works globally to strengthen midwifery education, policies, regulations, and associations. UNFPA supports 125 countries, including those with the highest maternal mortality rates. In Timor-Leste, midwives are at the frontline of the health system, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. However, their ability to provide quality care depends on the quality of the education and training they receive.
“Today’s MoU signing marks an important step forward in fulfilling our commitment to quality midwifery education. This agreement is not only aligned with Timor-Leste’s national health and education strategies but also with global commitments, including the SDGs, to reduce preventable maternal mortality and ensure universal access to quality sexual and reproductive health services,” she underlined.
Through this cooperation, UNFPA and MESSC, together with other partners, will conduct a comprehensive review and improvement of midwifery education to ensure that policies, curricula, and education standards align with global benchmarks set by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM).
“UNFPA is committed to providing technical expertise, sharing global knowledge, and applying best evidence-based practices while working closely with national institutions to adapt and implement sustainable solutions,” reaffirmed Navchaa Suren.
As Timor-Leste prepares for ASEAN membership, investment in human capital development is becoming increasingly critical. Strengthening midwifery education is not only essential for improving health outcomes but also for building an education system that develops a skilled workforce able to meet international standards.
“Through this collaboration, we will also explore opportunities for South-South and Triangular Cooperation, linking Timor-Leste with countries in the region and beyond that have successfully developed their midwifery education systems. We will promote knowledge exchange, partnerships, and collaboration. Together, we will ensure that every midwifery student in Timor-Leste receives high-quality education, that every graduate becomes a competent and confident health professional, and that every woman has access to respectful, quality, life-saving care,” added Navchaa Suren.
She concluded by expressing deep gratitude to MESSC for the leadership and commitment. UNFPA looks forward to a strong partnership that can transform their shared vision into sustainable and meaningful outcomes.
Report: Domingas
Photo: Domingas