Dili, September 8, 2026 — The Minister of Education, Her Excellency Dr. Dulce de Jesus Soares, stated that education constitutes a mission and a responsibility of teachers towards students, emphasizing that being a teacher means assuming the role of builder of the future.
The statement was made by the Minister of Education during the opening ceremony of the training course for the 40 scholarship-holding teachers selected to teach in CAFE Schools throughout the country.
The head of the Education Ministry explained that the ceremony reflects the Ministry of Education’s commitment to the future of Timor-Leste, taking on a particularly relevant meaning as it concretely represents the implementation of one of the Ministry of Education’s strategic policies, enshrined in the Program of the IX Constitutional Government, which places teachers at the center of government priorities.
“Today, I want to send each of you a very clear message: educating is your mission and your responsibility. Being a teacher is being a builder of the future. Your work goes far beyond the classroom, because it shapes consciences, awakens talents, and guides paths. The Government believes in you. The Ministry of Education trusts you. The Nation needs you. And families expect dedication, competence, and integrity from you,” said the minister.
The governor also emphasized that this course represents only the beginning of a process. As she explained, the Ministry of Education will continue to support teachers through continuing education, better working conditions, and policies that value the teaching profession.
However, she added, it is up to each teacher to commit to being an example, cultivating excellence, and always placing children and young people at the center of their professional performance.
Addressing specifically the 40 teachers present at the training, the Minister highlighted the special responsibility they will assume in the CAFE Schools.
“To the 40 teachers who are here today, I want to address a very special word. You are the new group of teachers who will take over the CAFE Schools, bringing with you not only the knowledge acquired in this training, but also the responsibility of contributing to the quality of education in the communities where you will carry out your mission,” emphasized the Minister.
Throughout the training, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge about the functioning and organization of the CAFE Schools, as well as their respective rules, procedures, and specificities.
This knowledge will be reinforced through guidance and presentations conducted by the managers of the CAFE Schools, who will accompany the new teachers and provide essential information for their integration into their respective schools.
The activity was attended by the Minister of Education, Her Excellency Dr. Dulce de Jesus Soares; the President of the Public Service Commission, Mr. Agostinho Letêncio de Deus; the President of INFORDEPE, Mr. Domingos Martins; as well as collaborating managers and teachers.
