In a remarkable milestone for education and faith, the Timor-Leste Adventist International School (TAIS) celebrated the inauguration of its fourth branch in the town of Viqueque, Timor-Leste, on September 25, 2023. With education playing a pivotal role in this initiative, the Adventist Church in Timor-Leste is sharing an avenue of hope and faith to a challenging territory.
Situated on 2,800 square meters of land in the heart of the city capital, Viqueque, the new TAIS branch embodies the commitment of the Adventist Church to providing quality education and spiritual growth. The inauguration event was graced by Timor-Leste Adventist Mission administrators, led by its president, Pastor Chris Anderson; executive secretary, Pastor Inaciu Da Kosta, and treasurer, Vic June Francisco. Additionally, administrators and teachers from the TAIS Main Campus were present, exemplifying the unity and dedication of the Adventist education community.
"We are deeply appreciative of the warm embrace extended by the community of Viqueque towards our school. Through this educational institution, we are committed to nurturing our children, equipping them to flourish intellectually and develop strong character traits that will shape them into the future leaders and pillars of our society," expressed Pastor Chris Anderson.
The event was further honored by the presence of the Town Chief, Mr. Joao Pinto, who expressed his profound appreciation for selecting Viqueque as the location for this international school. His endorsement signifies the positive impact this institution is expected to have on the local community.
"We are honored to welcome the Timor-Leste Adventist International School to our city," said Joao Pinto. "For years, our town has eagerly awaited the establishment of a school, and now, with the presence of TAIS, that wait has come to a joyful end. This institution holds the promise of equipping and empowering our children, molding them into individuals poised to make a meaningful impact on the future," he added.
Currently, the TAIS Viqueque branch has 15 students enrolled, with expectations for growth next school year. This expansion is a testament to the demand for quality education in the region and the trust parents place in the Adventist educational system.
TAIS Viqueque marks the fourth branch inaugurated in a series of expansions this year. In October 2022, the TAIS branch in Los Palos was officially inaugurated, an event that coincided with the visit of Elder Ted Wilson, president of the Adventist World Church. Subsequently, the TAIS branches in Same and Baucau were opened in November 2022 and August of the current year, respectively.
What sets TAIS apart and has garnered praise from various corners of the country is its holistic approach to learning. While academic excellence is a core focus, the institution equally emphasizes spiritual, moral, and social development among its students. This comprehensive approach aligns with the values and principles cherished by the Adventist Church.
A notable strength of the school is its provision of English classes, a feature highly sought after by parents keen on enhancing their children's language skills and career prospects. This forward-thinking approach to language education demonstrates the school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
As the Timor-Leste Adventist International School continues to expand its footprint in the region, it remains dedicated to its mission of sharing hope and faith through education. The Viqueque branch stands as a testament to this commitment, offering a bright future to both its students and the community it serves. With faith as their guide, the Adventist Church in Timor-Leste looks forward to many more successful years of shaping minds and hearts at TAIS.
For more information about the Timor-Leste Adventist International School, please visit their Facebook Page through this link
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Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department