The Education Ministry has expressed strong concern about schools established without the knowledge of the government.
Education Minister Bendito dos Santos Freitas said NGOs with plans to build schools needed to first seek approval from the ministry.
“In the end, they leave these schools and then who will take responsibility for them?” he asked.
“We have seen many times that people come to establish schools but provide incomplete facilities.”
Parliament Deputy President Aderito Hugo said Timor-Leste did not have adequate control over its education sector.
“Don’t establish a school like you would a stall; use some responsibility,” he said.
He said while the government appreciated the initiative of groups which wanted to build schools, the government must still take final responsibility.
