World Bank Recognizes Education Achievements in Timor-Leste
DILI, March 2, 2012 - The World Bank congratulates the Ministry of Education for its significant achievements in teacher training and expanding both access and quality of basic education in Timor-Leste, as over 600 teachers graduate with a degree in Basic Education from the National Institute for Training of Teachers and Education Professionals.
With support from the Australian Government and the Global Partnership for Education, the World Bank has helped develop training for Timorese teachers to strengthen learning outcomes.
“This is a remarkable achievement for these newly graduated teachers who will help ensure high quality education for future generations in Timor-Leste,” said Luis Constantino, World Bank Country Director for Timor-Leste. “We are proud to be supporting the Government in their efforts to bring quality education for all, which means a brighter future for Timorese children.”
Quality, universal basic education is recognized by the Government of Timor-Leste and by development partners as essential to fighting poverty and ensuring that all Timorese participate in national development.
The World Bank is a significant partner of the Ministry of Education and has provided technical and financial assistance in expanding access and quality, including support for the National Education Strategic Plan.
The World Bank has also been involved in providing schools with new learning materials in Tetum and Portuguese, with every school getting nearly 150 reading books to help children learn to read and write. A breakthrough Early Grade Reading Assessment and Early Grade Mathematics Assessment in Timor-Leste is helping improve learning outcomes and providing a framework for joint donor-government collaboration to ensure education quality.
Current projects include the Education Sector Support Projects in collaboration with AusAID ($17 million, 2008-2013) and the Second Chance Education Project ($5 million, 2010-2015). Further support is in preparation.
