DILI, 08 August 2025 (TATOLI) – In a significant step towards enhancing the quality of technical education at Becora Technical Secondary School in Dili, the Ministry of Finance of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste has signed a landmark grant arrangement with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). 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 project “Post completion project for the Project for Rehabilitation of Becora Technical Secondary School in Timor-Leste”.
The post-completion project, starting from 2025 to 2026 with a budget of $ 1,100,000 (One Million, one Hundred Thousand, is dedicated to enhancing the school operation capacity of faculty staff and education training environment. The project was led by the Ministry of Education and implemented by Korean qualify Entity.
By 2026, students from various departments will benefit from an updated school management system and improved equipment operations. These enhancements will promote practical learning and knowledge sharing, enabling students to access high-quality educational programs. As a result, they will be well-prepared for technical-vocational courses tailored to the labor market, as well as for advanced studies at the university level.
The project is reported to have directly benefited approximately 1,342 students and 88 teachers across five departments, including Electricity, Automotive, Informatics, Civil Construction, and Mechanical.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, KOICA’s Country Director remarked, “Investing in technical secondary schools is essential for fostering a skilled and job-ready workforce. These institutions equip young people with practical knowledge and vocational skills aligned with labor market demands, bridging the gap between education and employment.”
In developing countries like Timor-Leste, strengthening technical education can significantly reduce youth unemployment, support economic diversification, and contribute to sustainable national development. Moreover, such investments empower students with opportunities for lifelong learning and income generation.
This initiative aligns with Timor-Leste’s national priorities, including the National Education Strategic Plan (2011–2030), the Education Strategic Plan (2020–2024). On a global level, it supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 4.3, which ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university by 2030.
Strengthened by a longstanding partnership between KOICA and the Government of Timor-Leste, the project highlights the critical role of technical and vocational education in driving social and economic development. Through targeted support to Becora Technical Secondary School, the initiative aims to enhance practical skills training, improve youth employability, and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for Timor-Leste’s young generation.
By investing in inclusive and quality technical education, KOICA and the Government of Timor-Leste are not only improving individual livelihoods but also equipping young learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a competitive workforce laying the foundation for a stronger and more resilient nation.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
