Transforming the Presidential Palace: Timor-Leste's children's learning centre

Licypriya Kangujam *

In a visionary move, President Jose Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste has established a Children's Learning Centre within the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili, redefining the role of the Presidential residence as a hub for education and community empowerment Established in 2011, the Children Learning Centre is located in the gardens of the Presidential Palace in Aitarak Laran.

This inspiring initiative was conceived and implemented during President and Nobel Peace Laureate J Ramos-Horta first term in office (2007-12), to provide children with opportunities to expand their creativity and learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. The centre was created with one clear mission—to empower young minds through knowledge, creativity, and opportunity.

The Learning Center offers children a safe and nurturing alternative to spending time on the streets. Rather than wandering or playing by the roadside, children are welcomed into a safe and clean space where they can explore, imagine and grow. On its very first day, the library welcomed 25 children.

That number quickly grew to 52, and today, it serves over 200 children, making it a cornerstone of the community's educational and creative life. This is something you will never find in any President Palace of the World. All the children are from local communities, marking a significant step toward nurturing the Nation's youth.

This initiative, complemented by a Children's Library, reflects Ramos-Horta's deep commitment to eradicating poverty and fostering opportunity through education. President Ramos-Horta, a 1996 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has long championed the transformative power of learning.

He envisions the centre as a sanctuary to "save the children" of Timor- Leste, a Nation still grappling with the challenges of poverty and limited access to quality education. By opening the palace—a symbol of authority—to young learners, Ramos-Horta is breaking down barriers, making the Presidency accessible and relatable.

The centre provides a safe, engaging environment where children can explore books, participate in educational activities, and develop critical skills to shape their futures. The Children's Learning Centre is designed to inspire creativity and curiosity. Equipped with resources like books, learning materials, and interactive tools, it offers a space where children can dream beyond their circumstances.

The accompanying library, stocked with diverse literature, aims to cultivate a love for reading and knowledge. Ramos-Horta has emphasized that investing in children's education is key to building a resilient, prosperous Timor-Leste, stating, — - "The future of our Nation lies in the minds and hearts of our youth." Over the years, Children Learning has developed a wide variety of learning tools and programs.

The centre features a Library, where children can read and borrow books to enjoy at home. An Art Space, where creativity blooms and recycled materials are transformed into beautiful artworks. Academic Support, including basic Portuguese, Mathematics, English, reading, and writing classes, especially for children struggling in school.

Talent Development Programs, such as singing, modelling, dancing, and musical instrument lessons children can learn to play the guitar and piano. Fun and Recreational Activities, including watching cartoons for the kids and swimming. Most interesting part is that the children were allowed to swim in the President Swimming Pool after the class.

And street vendors are allowed free access to the Presidential palace and can sell their vegetables or fruits. No gunmen allowed to guard the Palace. Besides this, he provides the same meals he eats to over 200 children daily. President Horta truly makes the Presidential Palace a People's Palace. This initiative also carries symbolic weight.

By transforming the Presidential Palace into a place of learning, Ramos-Horta is challenging traditional notions of power and privilege. The palace, once a distant emblem of governance, now serves as a community anchor, welcoming children and families to share in its legacy.

The centre's launch has been met with widespread praise, with local leaders and educators hailing it as a bold step toward inclusive development. Every activity is rooted in care and love, a reflection of President Ramos-Horta's dedication to the children of Timor-Leste.

This heartfelt effort has been fully supported by Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao. In his message, President Ramos-Horta shared, "I might not be able to save every child in this country, but I do know I can help some—to ensure they have access to good education and the chance to dream. I hope others will be inspired to support this initiative."

Through initiatives like the Infantil Learning Center, we can begin to tackle these issues and create a brighter future for our children, one child at a time. As Timor-Leste continues its journey of Nation- building, the Children's Learning Centre stands as a testament to Ramos-Horta's leadership and vision.

It is a beacon of hope, illuminating a path for the next generation to rise above challenges and create a brighter future for themselves and their country.