Dili, October 27, 2026 — Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, accompanied by the Minister of Education, Dr. Dulce de Jesus Soares, and the Secretary of State for General Secondary Education and Technical-Vocational Secondary Education (ESG-ESTV), Domingos Lopes Lemos, marked World Teachers’ Day as part of the commemorations for the 60th anniversary of the adoption of the UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. The ceremony took place on Tuesday, October 27, at the Ian Martin Hall, located at INFORDEPE in Dili.
On this occasion, Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão emphasized that education forms the foundation of the nation’s future.
“I have always said that life opportunities arise through the State. Education and health are not merely fields where teachers and doctors work to earn a salary. Working in these sectors is a mission—the mission of teaching and transforming knowledge into something that makes a difference in the lives of students,” stated the Head of Government.
The Prime Minister added that “teachers are agents of transformation, present daily in the lives of our students and young people. Therefore, they play an irreplaceable role in shaping new generations and building the nation.”
For her part, the Minister of Education, Dr. Dulce de Jesus Soares, noted that Timor-Leste has proudly observed this day for several years, highlighting that 2026 marks an important milestone: the 60th anniversary of UNESCO’s adoption of the historic 1966 Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers. This year’s theme is “Hand in hand with teachers: 60 years of protecting the profession, promoting its status, and shaping our future.”
“This theme highlights the vital need to protect teachers’ rights, improve working conditions, address teacher shortages, and confront current challenges, such as digital transformation and climate change,” the Minister explained.
The official added that the world today is changing rapidly due to the development of digital technologies. “Teachers are at the heart of this national transformation. Through modern and creative methodologies, they prepare our young people to compete on a global scale,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of State for Secondary Education and Technical-Vocational Education (ESG-ESTV), Domingos Lopes Lemos, expressed his appreciation for all teachers who continue to carry out their duties with responsibility and dedication, despite the various difficulties they face.
“A teacher is an agent of transformation. When we look at a shapeless stone, it takes someone with knowledge to transform it into something of value. The same applies to a newborn child—like a blank slate. It is up to the teacher to guide, teach, and help children develop their knowledge, skills, and character,” the Secretary of State affirmed.
The ceremony also served as a call for teachers to continue strengthening their commitment and dedication, contributing to the improvement of the quality of education in Timor-Leste.
On behalf of the IX Constitutional Government, the officials congratulated all teachers, highlighting their fundamental role in the country’s development with the following message: “You are the heroes of the nation!”
