Dili, June 15, 2026 (Media Democracia) – Canossian Sister FDCC, Education for children in Timor-Leste is a collective responsibility of parents, schools, the church, and the State. The Sister considers that education failures often start at home.
Sister Guilhermina Marçal FDCC says that proper education means teaching children to respect themselves and to respect others.
“Our goal is to educate people, because 96% of Timor is Catholic. But the freedom we use often becomes ‘freedom’ that separates itself from values and principles. That doesn’t benefit the future. As Christians and citizens, we see everywhere there’s no mutual respect, people insult each other on social media. We need a law that reminds us, speaking about other people’s names must be done with responsibility and dignity.” Sister Guilhermina FDCC told journalists at the São José Hall (12/06/2026).
She also said that when it comes to minors involved in crime, the law shouldn’t just put them in jail. Instead we must ask why that child had to commit a crime.
“From a psychology perspective we can say it’s a lack of attention from parents, schools, or society. If young children don’t have what they need, sometimes they’re missing something essential, so they take many paths, run with the wrong crowd, and do bad things. In the end they themselves become both victim and accused.” she explained.
She also regrets that in Timor some art groups misuse the name ‘art’ to do bad things and show disrespect.
“I ask parents not to only teach children to read and write, but to also form and educate children to be good, honest people. I also ask teachers to work together with parents to look out for children’s futures. Moral and cultural education is more important to show that children and youth are the people of the future.” she emphasized.
Sister Guilhermina asked the State to put in place a law that protects citizens’ dignity, especially on social media.
Reporting: Trainee Juliana
Photo: Trainee Baquita