DILI, 04 April 2025 (TATOLI) – In a significant step towards enhancing early childhood education, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has signed a landmark grant arrangement with the Ministry of Finance (MoF).
This collaboration formalized during a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Finance office, highlights a mutual commitment to improving educational opportunities and developmental outcomes for Timor-Leste’s youngest learners through the transformative project titled “For Every Child, Early Childhood Care and Education.”
The project, spanning from 2024 to 2027 with a budget of US$6 million, is dedicated to enhancing the infrastructure and quality of early childhood education in Baucau and Bobonaro municipalities. Led by the Ministry of Education and implemented by UNICEF, the initiative reflects KOICA’s steadfast commitment to poverty alleviation and improving the quality of life through education.
By 2027, children aged 3–5 years, regardless of gender, ability, socio-economic background, or geographic location, will be engaged in age-appropriate learning pathways fostered by supportive policies and positive social norms. Additionally, more children within this age group, particularly those in remote areas, will gain access to quality early childhood education programs, ensuring they are well-prepared for primary school.
Key Project Impacts:
- Directly benefiting 3,050 children in 34 KOICA-supported preschools.
- Positively influencing over 17,890 children in the surrounding communities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, KOICA’s Country Director said, “it reflects our collective vision for a future where every child has access to quality early education. Through the ECCE Project, we are addressing key educational needs, empowering young learners, and helping to build a strong foundation for Timor-Leste’s long-term development.”
This initiative aligns with Timor-Leste’s national priorities, including the National Education Strategic Plan (2011–2030), the Education Strategic Plan (2020–2024), and the National Strategy for WASH in Pre-Schools and Basic Schools, contributing to sustainable educational growth. On a global level, it supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 4.2, which envisions universal access to quality early childhood education by 2030.
Strengthened by a longstanding partnership between KOICA and the Government of Timor-Leste, the project underscores the critical role education plays as a catalyst for social and economic development. Together, they aim to pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for Timor-Leste’s children.
By investing in inclusive and quality early childhood education, Timor-Leste and KOICA are not just improving lives, they are empowering young learners with the skills and knowledge to outshine, fostering brighter prospects for the nation as a whole.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
