Supporting the education system in Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste is one of the least developed countries in the world and the poorest in Asia. During the 1999 post referendum violence, 95% of the buildings and infrastructure were destroyed, leaving only 5% of the schools standing. With over 40% of the country’s population below the age of fourteen and the majority of Timorese teachers poorly educated and untrained, the current school system faces enormous challenges.
Convinced that education is the key to development and the single most powerful means of lifting people out of poverty, the Marist Brothers have accepted the invitation of the Bishop of Baucau to build and operate a high quality school (K-9) for the young people of the district. Marist leaders are currently negotiating the location of the school to ensure that it is established in an area of need. Phase one of the project will involve the construction of classrooms for grades 1 to 4, a toilet block and tanks, a security fence, furnishings and school materials. Phase two will see classrooms built for grades 5 to 8, as well as a library and a second toilet block and more tanks.
It is anticipated that the school will be staffed with graduates of the highly regarded Teachers Training College in Baucau, established by the Marist Brothers 2002, and the only one of its kind in the country. This project is in the early stage of development however it requires significant support now.
Every child has the right to receive an education. Your donation will help educate and empower young Timorese to reach their potential and make a contribution to their newly independent country.
Photo: Conor Ashleigh