DILI, 23 April 2026 (TATOLI) — The President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta on Thursday launched a new English-language training programme aimed at strengthening the country’s human capital and preparing its workforce for deeper regional and global engagement.
The initiative, a partnership between the Institute of Business (IOB) in Dili and the Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology (COSMO) of Brunei Darussalam, will offer internationally recognised English certifications to students and professionals.
Ramos-Horta said the programme reflects how international cooperation can translate into tangible opportunities, particularly for young people seeking to compete in an increasingly interconnected world.
“Proficiency in the English language is no longer merely an advantage — it has become a strategic necessity,” he said at the launch ceremony.
He noted that English plays a central role in diplomacy, trade, science and innovation, and is widely used in multilateral forums, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which Timor-Leste is preparing to join as its 11th member.
For the Southeast Asian nation, investment in English-language education is closely tied to its long-term development strategy, he said, adding that the programme is “an instrument of national empowerment” rather than just a language course.
The initiative is expected to improve access to overseas education, enhance participation in international forums and strengthen competitiveness in the global labour market.
The president also highlighted the significance of educational cooperation with Brunei Darussalam, describing it as a “brotherly country” with shared regional ambitions.
Prabhu Sethuratnam, executive director of COSMO, said the institution serves as a gateway to global communication, reinforced by regional cooperation and shared aspirations within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
He said the partnership with the Institute of Business (IOB) in Dili reflects ASEAN’s spirit of collaboration, building bridges through education and mutual growth.
Sethuratnam said language plays a critical role in transforming local potential into global leadership, adding that the initiative demonstrates a commitment to equipping young people with skills needed to compete internationally. He added that the programme marks the first in a series of skills-based, workplace-oriented certifications to be delivered through the partnership.
IOB Rector Pedro Ximenes said the programme is designed to strengthen professional English communication, particularly in the public sector. He said the initiative is supported by COSMO and Pearson UK, offering accredited English training in Timor-Leste to enhance language capabilities for career development and public service.
Following the launch, the IOB–COSMO School of English in Dili will begin offering courses ranging from basic to advanced levels, aligned with international qualification standards. The classes will be open to the public and delivered by English teachers from Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
