With the support from the Government of Japan, UNESCO delivered training for the master trainers in science and mathematics to improve primary education in Timor-Leste. The training took place from 5 to 14 July 2021 at SESIM Lab in Dili, Timor-Leste, with twelve master trainees from SESIM and INFORDEPE. The trainers from Koei Research and Consulting (KRC) and Naruto University of Education (NUE), Japan, provided the training virtually from Japan.
The training covered topics such as the Japanese Education System, characteristics of Science and Mathematics Education in Japan, teaching lesson study through a virtual tour to Niihama primary school attending science and mathematics classes.
The training simulated the teaching and learning process using the supplementary Science and Mathematics teaching materials co-developed by KRC-SESIM; and introduced the video-making process and the use of video during the lesson.
The participants virtually visited Sanagochi UNESCO primary school to observe science and mathematics teaching in a class and the use of a nearby UNESCO designated site as pedagogical material for Education for Sustainable Development.
The participants enthusiastically participated in the eight-day training and interacted actively with the trainers. The schools' directors from Japan expressed that the event was a great opportunity for their students to learn about Timor-Leste and international cooperation.
During the closing session, Professor Kozai from the NUE stated that the training was a chance for teachers from Timor-Leste to have a direct view of the Japanese education system and an opportunity for cultural exchange between Japan and Timor-Leste. He pointed out that the Japanese system also focuses on developing students' ability to think and read through science and mathematics activities carried out in class.
Mr Raul Vicente from INFORDEPE appreciated the opportunity to observe classrooms and extracurricular activities conducted in Japan and learn about the Japanese Education System. The Deputy Ambassador of Japan to Timor-Leste, Mr. Shusaku Hirashima, congratulated the trainees for completing the training and thanked the Japanese partners, NUE and KRC, for successfully facilitating the training during the challenging conditions. The Vice President of INFORDEPE, Dr Rui da Costa, thanked the Government of Japan for the support of enhancing the teachers' ability to teach science and mathematics. Mr Francisco Barreto, Secretary-General (a.i) of Timor-Leste National Commission for UNESCO, hopes that the Government of Japan will continue supporting the improvement of the quality of science and mathematics at all educational levels in Timor-Leste. After this training, a steering committee meeting will be held to introduce the co-developed supplementary materials for approval before printing and training the teachers.
The training is part of the project "Strengthening science and mathematics for primary education in Timor Leste" to contribute in achieving SDGs, especially SDG4-Quality Education, in Timor-Leste.
Related news:
