Govt considers introducing English in primary schools

DILI, 5 November 2026 (TATOLI) – The Ministry of Education is considering introducing English-language for students in Grades 5 and 6 from 2027, initially through a pilot programme in selected primary schools.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Education Minister Dulce de Jesus Soares and Vietnamese Ambassador to Timor-Leste Pham Binh Dam in Dili. The meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in education and digital transformation.

Soares said the proposed initiative would allow students to begin learning English at an earlier stage of their education. Currently, English-language classes begins only in Grade 7.

“Today, we began by discussing digitalisation, as well as the Ministry of Education’s plan to introduce English-language classes in primary schools, particularly for students in Grades 5 and 6,” Soares told reporters after the meeting.

She said the ministry planned to initially test the programme in one or two primary schools in 2027 before considering its expansion to other schools.

However, the minister stressed that implementation would depend on the ministry’s assessment of available resources and schools’ readiness. Key considerations include the availability of qualified teachers, teacher training and the preparation of appropriate teaching and learning materials.

The pilot phase is expected to help the ministry evaluate the effectiveness of introducing English at primary-school level and identify the requirements for a possible wider rollout.

If implemented, the initiative would bring formal English-language instruction forward by two school grades, providing students with an opportunity to develop their language skills before progressing to secondary education.

TATOLI