Graduations

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, John and Diane McGrath, 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 53 Timorese graduates from the Australian-established Baucau College. They were awarded Bachelor of Teaching degree and two members of staff graduated with a Graduate Diploma.

Former ACU National graduate Isabel Guterres was awarded the University’s highest Honour, Doctor of the University, on recognition of her lifetime commitment to justice and service and especially to refugees
The University was represented by Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Craven, Pro Vice-Chancellor- Academic Affairs Professor Gabrielle Mc Mullen, Dean of Education Professor Marie Emmitt, Director for the Institute of Community Engagement Professor Jude Butcher, Research Officer Mr. Bruno Yvanovich and Graduations Officer Ms Kathy Macpherson.

Timor Leste’s Minister for Education Dr João Cancio Freitas attended the ceremony.

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.