DILI, 30 march 2023 ( TATOLI)- 17 American Peace Corps Volunteers today swearing in and beginning service to local communities in four municipalities such as the Municipality of Bobonaro, Liquica, Ermera, and Manatuto.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the United States Embassy. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta, and the U.S.CHarge d’ Affaires, Tom Daley, and the Head of the U.S. peacekeeping force, …..
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, U.S. Charge d’ Affaires Tom Daley, said this swearing of the 17 new volunteers is marking the return of the volunteers into service in Timor-Leste for the first time in three years.
For the next two years, the volunteers will serve in the municipalities of Bobonaro, Liquiça, Ermera, and Manatuto, where the Volunteers will advance English education and community economic development.
The event also marked the culmination of a 10-week intensive training program, which included Tetum language and cultural immersion courses, technical skills development, and health and safety training.
“Peace Corps volunteers represent the best of the American spirit: generosity, service, and a commitment to being a force for good in the world,” said U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley in his remarks.
“Since 2002, the United States has proudly partnered with Timor-Leste to host Peace Corps Volunteers to support the development of Timorese communities. Their service reflects our goal to invest in the Timorese people so that they can build a healthier, more secure, and re-prosperous country.”
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley added, Eight teacher trainer volunteers will advance English language education at secondary schools, while nine volunteers will promote community economic development in collaboration with community and youth groups, government training centers, and local NGOs. During the swearing-in ceremony, volunteers pledged to uphold the values and principles of the Peace Corps and work tirelessly towards improving the lives of the Timorese people.
At the same place, the President of the Republic of Timor – Leste José Ramos-Horta, appreciates the program of American Peace Corps Volunteers to help the economic sustainability in rural areas and strengthening the sector of education through English teaching the schools in Timor – Leste.
” I called on the Timorese people in four municipalities to work together with the 17 Volunteers of Peace Corps. Their presence in Timor- Leste is not of any interest but they come to Timor – Leste at the invitation of the President of the Republic and the Government of Timor – Leste, therefore Timorese people should take this opportunity to learn with them to improve your English and also together with them to improve the economic development in Timor – Leste,” he concluded.
Peace Corps Timor-Leste has a long history of successful partnerships with Timorese communities, with volunteers first arriving in the country in 2002. Since then, over 200 volunteers have served in Timor-Leste, working on projects that have impacted the lives of those they served. With the addition of these new volunteers, the Peace Corps continues its commitment to supporting the people of Timor-Leste and strengthening the bond between the American and Timorese peoples. The next cohort of Peace Corps volunteers is scheduled to arrive in Timor-Leste in October 2023.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.
