The State Budget Modules for Adolescents and Young People

Highlights

The State Budget Modules for Adolescents and Young People were developed with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Art and Culture (MoYSAC), the Ministry of Finance (MoF), and the National Institute for the Defense of Children's Rights in Timor-Leste. The process involved extensive consultation with young people, educators, and community stakeholders to better align the content with the realities and interests of adolescents and young people across the nation.

The primary objective of these modules is to promote budget literacy and civic engagement among adolescents and young people. By increasing their understanding of how public funds are planned, allocated, and spent, the modules empower young people to engage meaningfully in governance processes that affect their lives. The initiative supports the broader national goal of cultivating a generation that is not only informed but also capable of participating actively in the democratic and development processes of Timor-Leste.

Two tailored modules were developed: one for adolescents aged 10–14 years, and another for young people aged 15 and above. The content is structured to introduce young learners to key concepts, including an introduction to the State Budget of Timor-Leste, as well as the process by which the state budget is developed and implemented and how they can participate in the process. It also covers the budget cycle, the annual planning process, and important tools such as the budget’s child marker, which tracks investments for children and young people. To ensure engagement and comprehension, the modules include practical examples, interactive activities, and a question-and-answer session designed to encourage critical thinking and discussion. These modules are an essential step in helping young people understand their role in public decision-making and fostering active citizenship from an early age.