DILI, 21 March 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta led an Intergenerational Dialogue focused on shaping the future of Timor-Leste. The event, held in Luak, Same, brought together leaders, academics, and youth representatives to engage in constructive discussions on inclusive public policy and national development.
This significant gathering aimed to bridge generational gaps, providing a platform for Timor-Leste’s youth to share innovative ideas on social, economic, and political development. The dialogue fostered constructive discussions on inclusive public policy and strengthened the role of the new generation in contributing to positive change, promoting consensus, and developing common solutions for the nation’s future.
In his keynote address, President Horta outlined his vision for Timor-Leste and the leadership model required to achieve sustainable development. His key message emphasized education reform: “My key message is simple: study, study, and study more—particularly the science and technology of the 21st Century to address contemporary challenges and opportunities,” Horta said in a statement.
President Horta commended those Timorese who founded and managed private universities in the country. “There are simply too many institutions for a population of 1.4 million with our very low national income. This proliferation means most universities cannot offer quality education, resulting in many graduates receiving meaningless diplomas. The government must forcefully encourage universities to merge and reduce the number of faculties, focusing instead on high-quality teachers and infrastructure.”
The event includes short addresses were delivered by Deputy Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Aderito Hugo, President of Manufahi Municipal Authority Luis Marçal Tavares, and Rector of IBTL Antonio Pedro Marçal. Brigida Soares presented on “Timor-Leste from 2020-2024: Achievements, Challenges, and Impediment Factors for the Future, Mitigation Strategy,” providing critical context for the discussions.
The dialogue features a distinguished panel discussion moderated by Aniceto Guro Berteni Neves, with President Horta, joined by prominent leaders Rui Maria de Araújo and Fidelis Leite Magalhães. The panel explored “A Good Future for Timor-Leste: The Development of the State of Timor-Leste through Transformative Leadership in the Future.”
The Intergenerational Dialogue organized by Movimento Timor Avante (MOTIVA), strengthened intergenerational collaboration, facilitated knowledge transfer from senior policymakers to young leaders, and promoted inclusive decision-making that integrates youth perspectives into development planning and policy processes.
President Ramos-Horta concluded the event by emphasizing the importance of intergenerational dialogue and reaffirming Timor-Leste’s commitment to collaborative action for the future.
The Intergenerational Dialogue underscored the nation’s commitment to inclusive governance and highlighted the importance of cross-generational cooperation in addressing national challenges and opportunities.
TATOLI
