The eMerge Foundation Australasia.
Timor graduation
Investment in the education of the Timorese people has provided unprecedented returns for the eMerge Foundation.
Five donors from the eMerge Foundation - Helen Games, Dawne Yeates, Rob Yeates, Ian MacRitchie and Marionne MacRitchie - attended a college graduation ceremony in Timor-Leste last year.
eMerge Foundation’s major fund raising goal is to provide for Baucau College. The College provides degrees in teaching that are accredited by ACU. Thus the students receive an Australian degree.
This ceremony celebrated the achievements of 37 Timorese graduates from the Australian-established Baucau College. It also marked the first time a student has been awarded a Masters of Teaching in Timor. Jose Mendes was awarded a Masters of Educational Leadership and other graduates were awarded the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary).
The University was represented by Chancellor Br Julian McDonald, Dean of Education Professor Marie Emmitt, Director for the Institute of Community Engagement Professor Jude Butcher, School of Education Leadership Professor Tony D’Arbon, Research Officer Mr. Bruno Yvanovich and Graduations Officer Ms Kathy Macpherson.
The significance of the event was underpinned by Timor Leste’s Minister for Education Dr João Cancio Freitas delivering the Occasional Address at the ceremony. During the address he praised the College and ACU National’s commitment to the program. Australian Ambassador to Timor Leste His Excellency Peter Heyward also attended the ceremony with his wife Susan.
The ceremony also represented many of the achievements of Australian initiatives in Timor. The Australians involved with Baucau College Br Fons van Rooij, the director, Diaan Stuart and Margie Beck, have demonstrated exemplary leadership and vision. This was evident at the graduation ceremony where graduates were imbued with enthusiasm and hope for the future of their shaky new democracy. Many graduates spoke of the important role they see themselves fulfilling in shaping the young minds of Timor’s future.
For the eMerge foundation we found the experience both moving and humbling. It provided us with the opportunity to meet other Australians assisting Timor, some serving in peace keeping roles, teaching, health and aid projects. We believe that investment in education provides wide ranging and tangible benefits to both the individual and society