Aileu, October 12, 2026 – The Minister of Education, Dr. Dulce de Jesus Soares, accompanied by the President of the Aileu Municipal Authority, Mr. Jacinto Ribeiro Dias, inaugurated the Shrine of Saint John Paul II—the patron saint of the Saboria Branch Basic School (EBF)—with the aim of strengthening the values of faith, wisdom, and solidarity among students and the school community. The ceremony took place this Monday in the Aileu Municipality, within the Aileu-Vila Administrative Post.
In her speech, the Minister of Education highlighted that His Holiness Pope John Paul II remains a source of inspiration, guidance, and hope for the Timorese people, particularly for all those working in the education sector.
The Minister recalled that Pope John Paul II’s visit to Tasi Tolu on October 12, 1989, marked a historic moment in the Timorese people’s struggle for the right to self-determination. His presence brought renewed energy and courage to continue the struggle, conveying a clear message to the world that the people of Timor-Leste existed and possessed dignity and worth.
The Minister further emphasized that the Holy Father’s message on that occasion reaffirmed the Timorese people’s right to dignity and freedom, just like any other people. His words, which remain alive in the collective memory, encouraged young people to be the “salt of the earth and the light of the world,” instilling hope in a population that, at that time, was facing suffering and persecution. According to the Minister, this message serves as a reminder that God walks with the Timorese people and that every individual plays an important role in building a society that is more just, free, and grounded in solidarity.
Addressing the students, the Minister emphasized that the best way to honor the sacrifices of previous generations is through dedication to their studies, respect for others, and preparation to assume responsibilities as active and responsible citizens.
“You are not fighters using weapons to win independence; rather, you are fighters for our country’s development, knowledge, and progress. You were not yet born when your grandparents suffered, but it was their sacrifices that enabled us all to live better lives in freedom. This freedom is not a gift we can simply receive and then forget the value of. The best way to remember and honor those who made sacrifices is to be dedicated and respectful students, preparing yourselves to become active and responsible citizens,” the Minister stated.
The Minister also noted that Saint John Paul II holds a permanent place in Timorese schools as the Official Patron of Education and Youth. Following the decision to pay him this national tribute in 2019, the Ministry of Education began circulating a statue of him among the country’s schools to remind students that each of them is special in the eyes of God and possesses unique talents that can contribute to the development of society.
Finally, the Minister highlighted Saint John Paul II as a figure of great wisdom and intellectual capacity, whose example demonstrates the importance of study, critical analysis, and hard work. She emphasized, however, that knowledge only attains its true value when accompanied by faith, integrity, and love for one’s neighbor. The inauguration of the sanctuary thus offers an opportunity to reinforce the students’ holistic development, promoting not only academic success but also the human, moral, and spiritual values essential to building a more conscious, responsible, and compassionate Timorese society.
Minister Of Education Inaugurates Saint John Paul Ii Shrine At Saboria Branch Basic School
