What we do
- primary education and early childhood care and development
- water and environmental sanitation
- child protection
- youth engagement in society
- youth livelihoods
- emergency response and disaster risk reduction.
Education
Plan Timor-Leste is leading the way in increasing enrolment in early childhood and primary education, as well as improving its quality through teacher training, constructing and repairing preschools, and providing facilities that create a child-friendly learning environment.
We are also improving the literacy of caregivers so they can provide appropriate stimulation to children, and we are supporting the increased participation of children, parents and communities in school management.
Water and environmental sanitation
Plan Timor-Leste is delivering sustainable, community-managed water and sanitation services and building the capacity of water management committees so they are able to plan, implement and maintain facilities.
We are raising awareness of the importance of good hygiene practices including hand washing, sanitary toilet use, environmental cleanliness, and proper waste water treatment.
Child protection
Knowledge of child rights is very low in Timor-Leste. Plan has numerous awareness-raising initiatives and supports local child rights organisations and institutions that target government departments and leaders.
We also advocate for children’s participation in decisions that affect their lives.
Youth engagement in society
Plan Timor-Leste believes greater youth participation is needed to assist the peace-building process. We therefore support youth to increase their role in society.
We involve youth in conflict resolution and reconciliation activities, including music and sport activities. A Plan Timor-Leste supported youth group from Lautem recently recorded its first ever album on the Sony label to great acclaim. Purchase the CD from Plan Australia’s online shop.
Youth livelihoods
Employment for youth is a key priority. We are increasing young people’s opportunity to earn an adequate income through vocational training, life skills training (including finance management skills) and education on how to establish small businesses.
Emergency response and disaster risk reduction
Plan Timor-Leste has been working in camps in Dili for displaced people since 2006 by setting up child-friendly spaces and helping to reintegrate displaced people into their communities.
Our work with youth includes setting up a radio project where they are able to air their views and concerns to their peers and to present them to policymakers.
By providing targeted support to children and families most affected by conflicts and disasters, they can be avoided or mitigated in the future.
