“Weaving Hope: Together for an Education that inspires and transforms”

International Conference on Education in Timor-Leste

“Weaving Hope: Together for an Education that inspires and transforms”

An intercongregational conference to promote synodality in Timor-Leste by fostering networks of collaboration and shared commitment to transformative, student-centered Catholic education.

1. Background

Timor-Leste is a young and vibrant nation, facing the challenges and opportunities of building a just and sustainable future. Education is a key driver in this journey. In this context, two Congregations (Escravas da Eucaristia e da Mae de Deus and Missionarias Filhas da Sagrada Família de Nazaré) in mission shared collaboration have been working tirelessly in the region to offer transformative, student-centered education rooted in Christian and human values.

To celebrate official inauguration of Naroman Esperansa, a new teacher training institute and school, and mark the anniversaries of both Congregations, we propose a three-day conference that fosters synodal networks and renews the collective commitment of religious congregations and educational institutions to quality education in Timor-Leste.

2. Goals of the Conference

1. Officially inaugurate Naroman Esperansa as a center for high-quality, transformative teacher education.
2. Celebrate the anniversaries of the two Congregations in shared mission.
3. Promote innovative educational methodologies and a transformative vision of education focused on the holistic development of the student.
4. Reflect on the Global Compact on Education, initiated by Pope Francis, and its relevance for Catholic education in Timor-Leste.
5. Strengthen the network of religious congregations involved in education across Timor-Leste, fostering synergy, collaboration, and shared mission.
6. Inspire a shared commitment to education that upholds human dignity, ecological awareness, and social justice.

3. Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced collaboration between congregations and educational institutions in Timor-Leste.
• Greater awareness and local contextualization of the Global Compact on Education.
• Visibility and institutional support for IUNE as a space of academic and spiritual excellence.
• Strengthened commitment to an education that fosters critical, compassionate, and active citizens.