Aileu, December 22, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Minister of Education participated in a ceremony for the presentation of certificates of recognition to 1,985 public servants who entered mandatory retirement in Aileu Municipality. This activity was accessed by Média Democracia through the Ministry of Education’s page earlier this week.
In her speech, the Minister of Education, Dulce de Jesus Soares, stated that the gathering today was held to honor the dedication and commitment of the 1,985 public servants who are entering mandatory retirement. These individuals sacrificed their lives for many years, from the very beginning of the establishment of the State, contributing to the development of the State and the Government.
“As the Minister of Education, I would like to extend special recognition and appreciation to the educational heroes of the 1985 cohort, who are now leaving their profession and entering a new phase of life as a phase in which they can enjoy time with their families, strengthen friendships, and begin new adventures without the burden of work,” said Minister of Education Dulce de Jesus Soares.
The Minister emphasized that today’s gathering was not merely to fulfill an administrative formality, but to honor those who dedicated their entire lives to the nation. As each person receives their certificate, it becomes evidence of their long history of service to the people and the Government of Timor-Leste.
“The 1,985 public servants who are retiring today played a truly important role in building our nation. In 2002, when our nation had just begun to govern itself, it was you who stood at the forefront. You taught inside damaged classrooms, you taught under trees, you wrote on broken blackboards, and often you worked without receiving the salary that matched your abilities. Throughout your long service to our beloved country, you did not only teach content and curriculum, but you also nurtured hope when our nation was still fragile,” the Minister explained.
The Minister affirmed that teachers planted the seeds of peace and national unity that today continue to grow strong. For this reason, the State expresses its deepest gratitude. Thank you very much, for even in the most difficult times, you never abandoned the children. Let us all continue to walk together on this path of transformation, remembering always that when teachers are good, schools become bright. When schools are bright, the nation becomes strong.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Media ME