HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR CLOSES TECHNICAL TRAINING FOR PRODUCT DIVERSIFICATION IN VIQUEQUE

Viqueque, 09 Jul 2025 (TATOLI) – The Directorate-General for Industry (DJI), through the National Directorate of Manufacturing Industry (DNIM), carried out technical training for the diversification of agricultural products in the Uma Uain Craic Juice, Administrative Post of the Village of Viqueque, from July 4 to 9, 2025. This training guides the local business group JENU FERDES towards the transformation of coconut into cooking oil as an alternative to local productive autonomy.

This training is part of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's (MCI) effort to boost economic diversification and strengthen the agricultural sector as an industrial base. This initiative gives a clear idea to the government to reduce dependence on imports and introduce local products to the international market.

Training Objectives

For five days, participants received technical training on: Transformation of coconut into cooking oil with simple technology; Creation of alternatives for the stability of food prices, including cooking oil, in the internal market; Substitution of imports of products such as "Bimoli" oil; Increased quality and productivity of local industry; Provide knowledge and skills to new entrepreneurs, in particular young people in rural areas.

The National Director of Human Resources, Mr. Jorge Ferreira, representing His Excellency the Minister of MCI at the closing ceremony, said: "The agricultural sector has great potential and local organic products can become the economic strength of the community. In this way, young people need guidance, inspiration and support to turn ideas into companies".

Young and Entrepreneurial Spirit

This technical training had the active participation of young people motivated to learn and innovate. The training program is an integral part of the government's strategy to instill the entrepreneurial spirit in the new generation.

According to statistical data, 75% of the population of Timor-Leste is in the active phase. MCI believes that, with clear guidance, young people can become the main driver of the transformation of the national economy, especially in the micro, small and medium-sized enterprise sectors.

Innovative Business Competition

This training is also considered a preparation for participation in the National Competition for Innovative Businesses (KNI-5). The group involved in the training will present a business plan, defend ideas before the evaluation panel and compete for prizes, access to innovative funds and credit opportunities.

MCI, through DJI, will continue to monitor and provide technical information to groups interested in product diversification. Regular monitoring will ensure the sustainability of economic activity at municipal level.

HR Director, Mr. Jorge Ferreira, said in a message: "Business is not easy, but it can become a positive reality if there are clear ideals, structured plans and technical support. The way to success is to start with small things and a lot of determination."

The training in Viqueque will show concrete examples of local innovation, youth leadership and direct contribution to the sustainable development of Timor-Leste.

The closing of the training was attended by the National Director of Planning (MCI), Commander of the PNTL of the Administrative Post of Vila de Viqueque, Suco Authority, IADE, ADRA, Food Health and Parents, and the delivery of certificates to the participants who participated in the training for five days.