The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Timor-Leste signed a $3 million grant agreement today to support workforce skills development in the country, aiming to strengthen technical and vocational education and training, better match it with what employers need, and support inclusive growth, ADB said.
The grant comes from the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, funded by Japan through ADB. Minister of Finance Santina Viegas Cardoso and ADB Country Director for Timor-Leste Stefania Dina signed the agreement in Dili. Ambassador of Japan to Timor-Leste Kimura Tetsuya and senior representatives from the Ministry of Education and the National Institute for Workforce Development attended.
The project will upgrade educational tools and facilities at selected TVET institutions in priority areas like construction, automotive, and mechanics. It will help align curricula and certification systems of secondary and post-secondary TVET programs with industry needs. The project will also roll out short courses for out-of-school youth and adults, helping graduates access income-generating opportunities. Women and marginalized groups will get equal access to industry-relevant training.
Dina said the project shows what can be done when partners work together. “By modernizing TVET institutions, harmonizing curricula with industry standards, and creating flexible learning pathways, we are opening doors to meaningful employment for all. This initiative will help build a skilled, resilient, and competitive workforce; improve access to quality education and training; and reduce poverty and inequality,” she said.
