Overview of Education in Timor-Leste

Even though Timor-Leste became independent in 2002, education is still at the stage of finding a path that will benefit the educational needs of the whole country. There have been many changes in Government during these years, with successive Governments changing priorities in the education sector. These affect the leadership and policies and stability of educating children, young people, and adults of this country. Laws and decrees, decisions, and their implementation can and do change with the election of a new Government. Many leadership positions depend on the individual’s political affiliation without regard for qualification, experience, or suitability for the position. While reaching Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2011–2030 is part of the aims of the Government in Timor-Leste, it is difficult to measure the actual achievements since there is little or no published information available as to what and how these are being achieved. Schools at all levels continue to be opened, renovated, and equipped even without sufficient staffing and equipment in some areas. More students are completing the basic education level and finishing senior secondary school. New educational institutions have opened, including a recurrent education center in each of the thirteen municipalities, to provide educational opportunities for those who have not completed their education during their school-age years. These have received accreditation, though there is still a lack of nexus between available education and work availability and qualifications needed for business growth.