(Dili) Mudansa – Women willing to work in the fishing industry do not mean to replace men’s jobs but rather believe in their capacity to do the work.
Fishery Worker, Maria Goreti Hobe, appreciates the Timor-Leste government, especially the Secretary of State for Vocational Training and Employment (SEFOPE), for providing opportunities for young people to work in South Korea.
Worker Maria Goreti Hobe informed that she is happy to receive the opportunity offered by the Timor-Leste government as it allows Timorese women to work in South Korea, even in the fishing industry.
“I never expected to work in the fishing industry, but I am still grateful for the opportunity I received, which does not mean I am taking men’s jobs, even though many people say that women cannot work in the fishing industry. Both men and women have equal rights,” said Maria to Journalist Media at the Timor Lodge Hall on Friday, May 29, 2023.
Maria added that while she is continuing her language training in Korea, she plans to send money back to Timor to work in South Korea, and when she returns to Timor-Leste, she will open a Korean language course to share her experiences.
“When I return to Timor, I will open a Korean course for my siblings in the neighborhood where I live to teach them how to read and write, and if they have completed their studies, they can continue their education or find new opportunities,” she said.
According to her plan, Maria intends to open a guest house or small inn, as there are many tourist spots, especially on the coast, where she can provide jobs to young people who have not yet found opportunities.
“My message to the youth is not to give up on their problems because being 17 years old and above, they should think wisely about how to earn money to support their families, especially when building a new house. So, take advantage of the current time when Korean courses are available in many places,” she suggested.
Meanwhile, this Sunday, 41 workers, consisting of 40 men and 1 woman, will depart for South Korea. 37 workers will work in the fishing industry, and the remaining 4 workers will work in a factory.
Journalist : Domingas Viana
Editor : Orlando Magno.
Translator : Felisberto
