Addressing the socio-economic challenges of COVID-19 in Timor-Leste
UN Volunteer Erika Tsuruyama (Japan) served as a Socio-Economic Recovery Specialist for eight months in Dili, Timor-Leste. From August 2020 to April 2021, she supported the response of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research, analysis and creative skills contributed to improved outcomes for Timor-Leste’s children during an incredibly challenging time. Erika's UNV assignment was supported through the COVID-19 Impact Reduction Programme, funded by the Government of Japan.
The children of Timor-Leste face many barriers to living a full and prosperous life. Poverty, malnutrition and poor access to healthcare mean that many children are unable to thrive. Only one in four children aged 3-5 years have access to pre-school and the others start schooling directly in grade 1, leaving them at a disadvantage that may impact subsequent years of their education.