Dili, July 17th, 2026 – Following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and the Dili Institute of Technology (DIT) continued their collaborative agenda by holding a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “Strengthening Cross-Border Collaboration in Education, Research, and Community Engagement of the Republic of Indonesia and the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.”
The forum brought together academics from both institutions to explore opportunities for strengthening collaboration in education, research, and community engagement.
Prof. Manuel Vong, during the discussion, emphasized the importance of rebuilding the bonds of brotherhood of Indonesia and Timor-Leste with academic cooperation. He noted that the Universitas Gadjah Mada Alumni Association (Keluarga Alumni Gadjah Mada or KAGAMA) could serve as a strategic gateway for expanding collaboration between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Ir. Widyanto Dwi Nugroho, S.Hut., M.Agr., Vice Dean for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Cooperation at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada, explained that the region’s historical experiences and geopolitical dynamics have inspired UGM to strengthen collaboration across ASEAN. He expressed hope that this partnership would further enhance the academic achievements and international experiences of students at both institutions.
Each panelist, during the discussion session, presented their research findings, which were followed by responses and constructive feedback from academics at the Dili Institute of Technology. The discussions were dynamic and generated a wide range of ideas for collaborative research initiatives that have the potential to benefit communities in both Indonesia and Timor-Leste.
The event also involved students from both UGM and DIT, providing them with the opportunity to participate directly in the discussions. Their involvement created a valuable platform for academic exchange while fostering stronger connections and mutual understanding of the students from the two countries.
Authors: Sri Pangesti Tuhu