In the 1990s, Sr Josephine and Sr Tess, Australian Josephites, embarked on a mission to Timor-Leste to help educate the people in the Tetum language. They were driven by a deep sense of duty and a belief in the transformative power of education, much like their founder, St Mary MacKillop. Armed with a vehicle affectionately named „Josie,“ the Sisters set out to reach the most vulnerable and excluded communities in the region.
Upon their arrival in Timor-Leste in 1994, Sr Josephine Mitchell was struck by the stark educational disparities that existed in the country. Education was a privilege reserved for the elite, and illiteracy rates were alarmingly high. To address this pressing issue, the Sisters took it upon themselves to develop educational materials in the local language, Tetum. Despite facing challenges such as book bans and language restrictions, they persevered in their mission to provide quality education to the people of Timor-Leste.
One of the Sisters‘ key initiatives was the training of teachers in utilizing the newly developed educational materials effectively. By equipping teachers with the necessary tools and knowledge, they were able to create a ripple effect, reaching even more communities and empowering individuals through education. This grassroots approach not only helped improve literacy rates but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among educators in Timor-Leste.
Reflecting on their time in Timor-Leste, Sr Josephine expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the resilient Timorese people. Despite enduring years of suffering and oppression, the people of Timor-Leste never lost hope for a better future. The Sisters‘ contribution to the education sector played a crucial role in laying the foundation for a brighter tomorrow for the country.
Today, the legacy of the Sisters of Saint Joseph’s work in Timor-Leste lives on through Mary MacKillop Today, an international development organization dedicated to providing education opportunities to break the cycle of poverty and transform lives. Through programs like Learning for Life, Mary MacKillop Today continues to uphold the Sisters‘ vision of empowering individuals through education, ensuring that the people of Timor-Leste have access to quality learning opportunities.
As the 25th anniversary of the referendum for Timor-Leste’s independence approaches, it serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination of the Timorese people. The Sisters of Saint Joseph’s commitment to education in the region has left an indelible mark on the country’s history, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.
