Indonesia to Strengthen Higher Education Cooperation with Timor-Leste
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has affirmed the country’s strong commitment to enhancing cooperation in higher education with Timor-Leste. Speaking at a press briefing on Saturday, Minister Yuliarto expressed his warm welcome and support for the growing partnership between the two nations in the academic sector.
As of 2024, over 10,165 Timor-Leste students are pursuing their education across various degrees in Indonesia, underscoring the shared dedication to improving human resource quality in both countries. Minister Yuliarto emphasized that this increasing trend reflects not only Indonesia’s commitment to supporting Timor-Leste’s educational development but also the close ties between the two nations.
“We expect the number of Timor-Leste students in Indonesia to grow further. This is an important step in our shared effort to enhance the quality of human resources,” Minister Yuliarto remarked. He noted that graduates from Indonesian universities can play a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the fields of higher education, science, and technology.
Minister Yuliarto also highlighted the potential for further academic cooperation, such as through the sister university program, which could create more collaborative opportunities between Indonesian and Timor-Leste universities. He expressed his hope that with stronger partnerships, Indonesian institutions could help foster greater academic growth and innovation.
Ambassador of Timor-Leste to Indonesia, Roberto Sarmento de Oliveira Soares, conveyed his gratitude for Indonesia’s ongoing support in the fields of education and technology. He emphasized that Indonesia remains a preferred destination for Timor-Leste students seeking to further their studies.
“Indonesia is not just our neighbor but a friendly nation. We hope that this visit will pave the way for even closer cooperation in higher education, science, and technology,” Ambassador Soares stated.
Additionally, Ambassador Soares announced that Timor-Leste’s Minister of Education is expected to visit Indonesia soon, with plans for Minister Yuliarto to meet with him to discuss further strengthening bilateral academic relations.
This collaboration is poised to continue as both nations work toward building stronger educational ties and promoting mutual growth in the academic and technological fields.
