(Díli), Taibesi, 07 April 2026 – Economic problems at home continue to be a major reason for many children in Timor-Leste not to continue their education. Lack of money to pay for school expenses such as uniforms, books and transportation forces some to drop out of school and help families earn a living.
Saturlina Gonçalves, a 17-year-old girl from Bobonaro Municipality, currently lives in Taibesi Market, Díli, and is involved in small business activities to help her mother sell vegetable. He came from a simple family, consisting of five brothers and sisters and himself, a total of six people in the house.
“I stopped my studies because the economy is not sufficient. I decided to go to pre-secondary school, grade 1, because my mother can not afford to support our future. My father has returned to God’s holy bed,” said Saturlina.
The brother said that the loss of a father figure makes life more difficult for the family. His mother had to support six 6 children alone, and the situation forced her to drop out of school to help the family.
“I feel life is worthless when I lose the figure of a father who cares and is responsible for us. My mother alone cannot support us all, so I help my mother sell vegetable every day in Taibesi Market,” he said.
This simple business, according to Saturlina, began nearly eight years ago, to respond to household needs and ensure daily food.
“I feel life is hard without a father. I want to continue my studies like other classmates, but my mother can’t, so I stopped my studies,” she added.
On the other hand, the mother of the small vendor, Mrs. Alda Gonçalves age 52, said she found it very difficult to support her family alone, especially after losing her husband. He said the children would need a father figure, and the situation made him very sad.
“I see other people’s school children wearing full uniforms, I see with tears in my eyes. Why can’t my beautiful daughter go to school?” said Alda.
He also thanked his daughter who helped him in the activity of selling vegetable, even though she was young. According to him, before Saturlina school had reached pre-secondary level, but because the family economy is not sufficient, his son decided to stop school to help earn income for daily needs.
“We are looking for money to eat and drink only to survive. As for school, we hope in the future they can get the opportunity to continue back,” he said.
Meanwhile, Media Mudansa confirmed that the editorial staff continues to make contact with the relevant parties, including INDICA, on the issue, but until now there is no official confirmation letter.
Saturlina’s story reflects the reality of some children in Timor-Leste who have to leave education because of economic limitations, and choose to enter the informal sector to help support their families.
Journalist/Intern : Cipriana Da Silva Soares
Editor :Felisberto F. da Costa
