DILI, 12 August 2025 (TATOLI) — UNDP, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) and with the support of the Japanese Embassy, organized a three-day Entrepreneurship and Renewable Energy Bootcamp in Dili to equip young Timorese with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to combat climate change and advance renewable energy initiatives in their communities.
The workshop, held from 12–15 August at Nova Turismo Hotel, brings together 50 participants, most of them university students from the National University of Timor-Leste (UNTL).
Over the three days, participants will engage in interactive workshops, peer learning, group discussions, hands-on activities, and dialogues with renewable energy experts and entrepreneurs.
Organizers say the program aims to strengthen entrepreneurial mindsets and support Timor-Leste’s green transformation.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the representative of the Ministry of Public Works (MoPW), Marito Ferreira said the bootcamp presents “a critical opportunity to empower the participants’ skills, knowledge, and network necessary to drive climate action and renewable energy entrepreneurship in their communities.”
He outlined the main objectives as raising awareness about climate change and renewable energy, equipping participants with the tools to start businesses in the sector, fostering networks of young leaders, promoting community-driven solutions, and inspiring youth to become agents of change.
“The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy has become a national priority. This training opens up opportunities for young people to be directly involved in the development of this sector,” he said.
UNDP Resident Representative Katyna Argueta stressed the urgency of the climate crisis and the role of young people in addressing it.
“We are living in a time when climate change is not a distant threat, it’s a present reality. From devastating floods and wildfires to rising sea levels and food insecurity, the world and Timor-Leste are already feeling the effects,” she said.
Argueta said young people are “not just victims of climate crises, they are also the drivers of change,” adding that the bootcamp is “more than just a program. It’s a movement. A space built for youth, to drive climate innovation and leadership.”
She highlighted that the workshop would:
- Equip young people with training and skills to understand and address climate challenges and energy transition.
- Support youth-led startups and projects that offer real, scalable climate and green solutions.
- Empower youth to influence renewable energy sector at local, national, and international levels.
- Provide access to a valuable network of changemakers.
Argueta said UNDP’s ongoing work with youth through the Pacific Green Transformation project, funded by the Government of Japan, which has installed solar power systems in households, health facilities, and schools.
“Those are not dreams. They are happening and they must be supported, scaled, and celebrated,” she told participants. “Your voice, your creativity, your leadership are not only welcome, they are also essential.”
Deputy Head of Mission at the Japanese Embassy in Dili, Yuki Sakai, said climate change is a global challenge with direct consequences for Timor-Leste.
“Timor-Leste, like many other nations, is experiencing the impacts, including extreme weather events, shifts in agricultural patterns, and threats to biodiversity. These challenges highlight the urgent need for decisive and transformative action,” he said.
Sakai explained Japan’s contribution of US$5.78 million to the Pacific Green Transformation project, which has provided solar-powered lighting to 1,000 households, eco-friendly stoves to rural communities, and solar-powered ICT labs in secondary and vocational schools.
“Today’s YECAP Bootcamp is a vital component of this project,” he said, urging participants to “think critically, and explore ways to enrich this nation while ensuring sustainable growth.”
The bootcamp is part of broader efforts to expand renewable energy, promote green jobs, and strengthen community-based climate action in Timor-Leste.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
