The renovation of this skills laboratory is part of UNFPA's ongoing assistance to strengthen the three pillars of midwifery; education, regulation and association in Timor-Leste. UNFPA provided assistance for the renovation of the skills laboratory building and the upgrading of equipment at the Midwifery School. The Rector of UNTL, Dr. Aurelio Guterres thanked UNFPA for all their support in the past and said that UNFPA's continued support is very much appreciated.

Each year, 75 students graduate from the UNTL Faculty of Midwifery programme and enter the midwifery profession and so it is of utmost importance that all midwives are trained to the highest international standards in order to reduce maternal mortality and improve maternal healthcare in Timor-Leste. The current maternal mortality rate in Timor-Leste is 557 deaths per 100,000 live births each year.

There is still a need for medical equipment for learning in the skills laboratory such as mannequins, instruments, family planning supplies, delivery beds and gynecologic tables and UNTL continue to seek support in further equipping the laboratory. Mr. Pornchai Suchitta UNFPA Representative said that he is very proud to be a part of this opening ceremony on behalf of UNFPA and that he is looking forward to future collaboration with UNTL to strengthen midwifery and reproductive health in Timor-Leste.

This opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Aurelio Guterres, the Rector of UNTL, Dr. Joao Martins, UNTL Dean of Medicine School, Mr. Pornchai Suchitta, UNFPA Representative Dr. Domingas Bernardo, UNFPA Assistant Representative, Dra. Lidia Gomez, President of APTL (Associaçao das Parteiras de Timor Leste), representatives from UN Agencies, midwives and midwifery students. The use of this new skills laboratory will begin immediately and benefit all those who are studying and working in the Faculty of Midwifery. The blessing of the new skills laboratory was given by Rev. Jordao from FDCC.