A Theory of Change (TOC) workshop facilitated by the Australia Pacific Training Coalition (APTC) and supported by the Secretariat of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), explored strategies for strengthening the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Timor-Leste.

The two-day workshop was held on 20-21 October to support APTC’s strategic planning process to ensure its work aligns with Government of Timor-Leste’s national priorities for TVET and economic development.

Sr Mateus Wilfredos dos Santos Tallo, National Director for Professional Training, SEFOPE, sent his comments from the municipalities where he was supporting the vaccine campaign – and said that the action plan that will come from exploring opportunities and challenges and then defining strategies for strengthening the TVET sector will be very important to Timor-Leste.

He added that this would bring significant change in line with the priorities and recommendations set out in the Timor-Leste TVET Plan 2011-2030.

After hearing a number of informative presentations on the current TVET context, the participants jointly developed an action plan to progress change in line with national priorities for strengthening TVET and skills development in Timor-Leste.

Sra. Isabel Fernandes da Lima, Director of the National Institute of Workforce Development (INDMO), the national qualifications regulator, noted that “TVET is the only way to improve the skills needed to face new challenges and opportunities in modern society.”

She emphasised that “through the Theory of Change Workshop, we all can contribute to innovative ideas for strengthening quality TVET delivery in Timor-Leste.”

The Country Director for APTC Timor-Leste, Nicki Baird, acknowledged all participants for their insightful contributions and said APTC has a strong commitment to building partnerships in the TVET sector to progress initiatives in line with the Government of Timor-Leste’s priorities and APTC’s end-of-program outcomes.

APTC commenced operations in Timor-Leste in July this year, working in partnership with the Government of Timor-Leste, private sector, civil society groups and training providers to support national TVET systems reform, and assists Timorese citizens to gain quality skills and qualifications for vocational careers in demand, both domestically and abroad. The APTC is also supporting the implementation of Timor-Leste’s Economic Recovery Plan 2020-2022.

The APTC is Australia’s flagship TVET program in Timor-Leste and the Pacific, and contributes to a more skilled, inclusive and productive workforce.

Since its establishment in 2007, APTC has trained over 17,000 individuals and is working with partners to improve TVET quality across the region.