The Prime Minister, Rui Maria de Araújo, officially opened the fourth National Perma-Youth Camp on 9 November 2015, at aldeia Fatisia, suco Buklelo, Laulara administrative Post, Aileu Municipality. On this occasion he also did the official launch of the School Vegetable Garden Program and the basic education manual “To’os Permakultura ba Labarik” – “Permaculture vegetable garden for children”.

Before this event, three other national camps have been carried out with the participation of young representatives of all municipalities: the first one in 2008, in Taci-tolu, Díli; the second one in 2011, in Remexio, Aileu;  and the third in 2012, in Laga, Baucau.

The head of government congratulated the organising committee that managed to dynamise this activity. He also encouraged the youngsters to learn to plant vegetables during the camp activity because such an activity could unlock opportunities in the future. On this occasion, Rui Maria de Araújo appealed to the youngsters, local authorities and development partners to support this initiative, giving continuity to the movement of attracting youngsters to agriculture.

The camp will end on 13 November. It includes activities connected to the promotion of the environment and awareness on climate change, sharing experiences regarding earth, agro biodiversity and vegetable gardens in schools.

Present at the opening of these initiatives were the representatives of the Ministries of Agriculture and Education, SEFOPE, International Agencies, the Aileu PNTL Commander, youngsters, community leaders and the population.