Timor-Leste Upper Secondary School (Years 10-12) Curriculum - Sciences and Technology Path

Overview

The Timor-Leste education system includes a pre-secondary level followed by three years of secondary education. Within the secondary level, students can choose between two paths: Sciences and Technology, and Social Sciences and Humanities. The Sciences and Technology path aims to equip students with scientific, humanistic, and technical knowledge, enabling them to apply this knowledge in practical settings. Digital competence is a key competency emphasized within the General Secondary curriculum.

Curriculum Development

The secondary education curriculum, including the Sciences and Technology path, has undergone restructuring and development with international collaboration. A new curriculum model, referred to as an "integrated curriculum," was introduced around 2010-11. There are ongoing efforts to revise and improve the curriculum, particularly the Technical-Vocational Secondary Education component, to better align with market needs in sectors such as agriculture and industry.

STEM Education

Timor-Leste is actively promoting STEM education and engaging the scientific community in research and university-level initiatives. Initiatives like the "One Book One Student" program highlight the country's commitment to strengthening science education. The National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT) plays a crucial role in advancing scientific and technological knowledge within the country.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

TVET programs are offered at the upper secondary level, leading to Technical and Vocational Certificates. These programs typically last for three years and require the completion of lower secondary education. There has been an expansion of Technical Secondary Schools, including the conversion of some General Secondary Education (GSE) schools.