Paulina Quintao – The Ministry of Education (ME) has established nine community centers this year aimed at improving study opportunities for illiterate people.
National Director of Adult Education Miguel Godinho Martins said one of the major problems faced in the past was that there were no suitable or permanent places for learning.
Centers have now been established in seven municipalities, with more to follow next year, said Martins. In the future, the government plans to establish centers in all administrative posts.
He called on those with limited education to participate in the program as it was a good opportunity for them to complete their studies.
Research conducted by the Timor-Leste Coalition for Education (TLCE) found that 26.2% of people in Aileu municipality were illiterate. He said the ministry was therefore conducting research in the seven municipalities to determine the program's progress.
He also called on local authorities in the communities to assist the government with monitoring the program. The program was implemented in 2001 and aims to improve literacy levels across the country.
Dili resident Tomas Jose Goncalves, 61, said the literacy program had provided an opportunity to improve themselves and take part in the development process.
He said he was a resistance fighter never went to school because he took a part in a war and now he gets the opportunity to be free from illiteracy. "I don't want to be leader or a ruler, [but] at least I want to know how to write, read and count," he said.
Member of Commission F (responsible for health, education, culture, veteran affairs and gender equality) Eladio Faculto considered this program was good to give the opportunity for those who did not complete their study in high school but should be improved.
"The place should be appropriate and permanent, so that people know where it is," he said. He said it had previously been difficult to monitor the teaching process and standards as lessons were often conducted in private homes or temporary places.