Dili, April 1, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The Ministry of Education (ME), in collaboration with the Civil Service Commission (KFP), held a ceremony for the acceptance and swearing-in of newly recruited teachers under the candidate scholarship program for the fourth phase. These teachers will be assigned to primary and pre-primary schools across various municipalities in Timor-Leste.
The Secretary of State for General Secondary Education and Technical Vocational Secondary Education, Domingos Lopes Lemos, emphasized in his speech that this moment is a significant milestone for the Ministry of Education under the IX Constitutional Government’s program. He also expressed his gratitude for the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister at the ceremony.
“This ceremony marks the official swearing-in of 206 teachers recruited for Pre-School Education (EPE). It is a crucial step in advancing the educational progress of our beloved nation, Timor-Leste,” stated Secretary of State Domingos Lopes Lemos.
He further explained that the newly sworn-in teachers have demonstrated their commitment by completing a comprehensive prior training that covered essential aspects such as the EPE curriculum, legislation and legal frameworks, public service statutes, child protection, pedagogy and classroom management, literacy and numeracy, information and communication technology (ICT), and inclusive education.
“This preparation reflects the Ministry of Education’s commitment to ensuring quality education and securing the future of our children. These educators, coming from all municipalities nationwide, represent a collective effort to bring quality education to every corner of our country,” he added.
According to him, the swearing-in of these dedicated education professionals is a significant step in strengthening the educational system and marks a promising new phase for pre-school education in Timor-Leste.
“Teachers hold the responsibility of shaping young minds, inspiring hearts, and nurturing the limitless potential of every student. This mission is both honorable and challenging, yet it is deeply rewarding. You are a fundamental part of creating a safe, inclusive, and stimulating learning environment where knowledge and curiosity can flourish in every child who enters our classrooms,” he emphasized.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration in this journey, as education is a collective effort involving not only teachers but also families, communities, and all stakeholders in society.
“To the newly sworn-in teachers, I congratulate you and encourage you to embrace this new chapter filled with achievements and challenges. Always remember that by imparting knowledge, you have the opportunity to inspire and shape the future leaders and citizens of this nation,” he affirmed.
He reiterated that the Ministry of Education remains committed to supporting all educators in this endeavor, ensuring a conducive environment for student learning and growth. He also expressed gratitude to everyone present at the ceremony, acknowledging the importance of this event for the education sector in Timor-Leste.
Public Service Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Education
The President of the Civil Service Commission (KFP), Agostinho Letêncio de Deus, expressed his pride in witnessing the swearing-in of these new teachers, who were selected through the candidate scholarship recruitment program.
“These new teachers will be assigned to schools located across the national territory. This event marks another achievement for Timor-Leste’s Public Administration, contributing to the rejuvenation of the state’s administrative machinery. Moreover, it represents a strategic step towards advancing necessary public administration reforms,” stated Agostinho Letêncio de Deus.
He explained that with this swearing-in ceremony, the total number of teachers recruited through the candidate scholarship program now exceeds 1,800.
“The Civil Service Commission extends its congratulations and best wishes to all of you as you embark on your teaching careers. Your acceptance of this role signifies that you are now part of the state’s administrative system,” he added.
He acknowledged the challenges ahead but encouraged the new teachers to demonstrate extraordinary performance, responsibility, and commitment to advancing the education sector. Through this, Timor-Leste can continue improving both the quality and quantity of its education professionals.
Juvinal Lay Sarmentu, a representative of the newly sworn-in teachers, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity provided by the Ministry of Education through the Civil Service Commission. He emphasized the legal significance of the swearing-in ceremony, affirming that it represents a formal commitment to the education sector.
“This ceremony proves the legitimacy of our placement and the transformation of education in our country. Now that I have been entrusted with this role, I am ready to serve, no matter the challenges that may arise in my profession as a teacher,” he stated.
He added that accepting this responsibility is an honor, as it is a duty to serve the people of Timor-Leste.
Teacher Placement Across Municipalities
According to official data, the 206 newly recruited teachers will be assigned to various municipalities as follows, Aileu: 17 teachers, Ainaro: 3 teachers, Baucau: 12 teachers, Bobonaro: 23 teachers, Covalima: 10 teachers, Dili: 4 teachers, Ermera: 25 teachers, Lautém: 36 teachers, Liquiçá: 18 teachers, Manatuto: 7 teachers, Manufahi: 25 teachers, Viqueque: 18 teachers and Oecusse Special Region: 8 teachers. These placements are categorized into three areas: Extremely Remote, Very Remote, and Remote.
Report by: Nelfiano
Photo by: Nelfiano