HIROSHIMA, 11 May 2026 — H.E. Mrs. Dulce de Jesus Soares, Minister of Education of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, conducted an official visit to Ryuuou Elementary School in Hiroshima to gain firsthand insights into Japan’s primary education excellence and student-centered methodologies.

The Minister was accompanied by Mr. Célio Moniz, Counsellor of the Embassy of Timor-Leste in Tokyo, and a delegation from the Center for the Study of International Cooperation in Education (CICE) at Hiroshima University, including Professor Tatsuya Kusakabe, Ph.D., Ms. Hitomi Sato, and Mr. Nunes José Julião.

Observing Autonomy and Civic Responsibility

Warmly received by Principal Mr. Kozako Kenshi and the teaching faculty, the delegation observed the daily academic and extracurricular activities of students from Grades 1 to 6. Minister Soares expressed her high regard for the core values of discipline, independence, and communal responsibility demonstrated by the students.

Key highlights of the observation included:

• Digital Literacy in Action: The delegation witnessed Grade 4 students independently utilizing laptops to manage library records, showcasing a seamless integration of technology and student-led administration.

• Communal Leadership: Through the school meal system, senior students were observed leading the service for younger peers, fostering a culture of mutual support.

• The 15-Minute ‘Souji’ Practice: The Minister noted the daily cleaning ritual, where students from all levels maintain their classrooms and facilities—including floors, blackboards, and restrooms—as a vital tool for instilling respect for shared spaces.

Inclusive Pedagogy and Collaborative Learning

The visit also delved into specialized teaching techniques. In Grades 2 and 3 mathematics classes, the delegation observed the practice of providing individualized support in separate learning spaces to ensure no student is left behind. For older students (Grades 5 and 6), the focus was on collaborative inquiry, with the Minister observing active group discussions centered on problem-solving.

A Platform for Cultural Diplomacy

In an effort to strengthen bilateral ties at the grassroots level, Minister Soares delivered a presentation to the students about Timor-Leste’s history, vibrant cultural heritage, and traditional cuisine. This exchange served as an educational bridge, sparking international curiosity among the young students.

To commemorate the visit, Minister Soares presented the school with Timor-Leste’s premium organic coffee and the traditional Tais woven textile, symbols of the profound friendship and cultural bond between Timor-Leste and Japan.