Dili, August 9, (Média Democracia) – The Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), through the National Directorate for External Employment (DNEE), has once again deployed 103 Timorese workers to take up jobs in Australia. The deployment ceremony was held earlier this week at Palm Springs Hotel Hilton.
Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment, Rogério Mendonça, stated that this occasion was an important opportunity for SEFOPE and Australia’s Minister for International Development to request and participate in the farewell ceremony for the 103 workers heading to Australia.
“Today’s ceremony is a very good opportunity for the Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment and the Australian Minister for International Development and Multicultural Affairs to request and participate in the farewell ceremony for these 103 workers traveling to Australia. From our discussions with the Minister, I am very pleased with the Labor Mobility Program which known as Palm Scam that has brought great benefits to the Australian Government,” said Secretary of State Rogério Mendonça.
He further explained that in addition to the farewell for these workers, most of them are new recruits, while 17 are returning workers. They will travel to Australia as prepared by the Government of Timor-Leste through SEFOPE.
Representing the workers, Simoa Gabriela Belo expressed her happiness at receiving another opportunity to work in Australia in the horticulture sector, which will help support her family financially.
“I am happy to have the chance to return to work in Australia in the horticulture sector. Back home in Timor, we can work in our fields, but in Australia, there are differences in experience and opportunities,” said Simoa Gabriela Belo.
She added that during her work in Australia, some challenges included communicating with company supervisors and overcoming the language barrier in the field. However, with self-confidence and mutual respect, the company has continued to trust her.
Also present at the farewell ceremony were Australia’s Minister for International Development and Multicultural Affairs and senior officials from SEFOPE.
Report: Nelfiano
Photo: Nelfiano