Timor-Leste opens 4th Edition of the Sci-Tech Expo 2026

DÍLI, 23 August 2026 (TATOLI) – The 4th Edition of the Science and Technology Expo 2026 officially opened today at the Dili Convention Centre, marking the start of a three-day event dedicated to making science and technology accessible to all Timorese. Held alongside the Science for Development Summit 2026, the programme features interactive exhibits, academic competitions, and cultural performances, all designed to engage the public with science in an inclusive and dynamic way.

The Expo officially opened by the President of the Republic and Nobel Peace Laureate, Jose Ramos-Horta, together with the Vice Prime Minister and Interim Minister for MESCC, Engº Mariano Assanami Sabino, alongside Nobel Laureates in the sciences, world-renowned scientists, and distinguished guests.

In his opening address, President Ramos-Horta underscored the importance of making science a lived experience for the nation:

“Excellencies, distinguished Nobel Laureates, and honoured international guests, welcome to Timor-Leste. Your presence honours our nation and affirms our place in the global community of knowledge. Over the past 24 years since the restoration of independence, we have progressively integrated Timor-Leste into the international community, strengthening our participation in the United Nations system, the CPLP, the g7+ group of countries, the Pacific Islands Forum, the WTO, and ASEAN, among other forums. But political freedom alone is not enough—true sovereignty also demands knowledge and innovation. To our young people: do not merely observe—ask questions, dream boldly, and never think that because Timor-Leste is small, our ideas must be small. The future belongs to those who dare to imagine it and have the knowledge to build it. My wish for this Expo is that it sparks lasting change—a new vocation, a partnership, and a solution to a national challenge. May this be the door through which our youth become protagonists of Timor-Leste’s transformation.”

This year’s Expo is structured around five key pillars: a Higher Education Fair, Academic Competitions, an Innovation & Youth Space, Cultural Activities, a comprehensive Science and Technology Exhibition. More than 70 exhibitors are taking part, representing schools, universities, government institutions, private sector partners and development organisations.

Highlights from the exhibition include:

• Student projects from schools across all municipalities, including EBC St. Antonio Teulale-Baucau, ESGP Nino Konis Santana Lospalos, and Colégio de Santo Inasio de Loiola Kasait.

• University research from the National University of Timor-Lorosa’e (UNTL), the Timorese Catholic University (UCT), and the Dili Institute of Technology (DIT), featuring demonstrations in agricultural engineering, health sciences, and teacher training.

• Government initiatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (MPRM), and the National Institute of Science and Technology (INCT), showcasing science in policy and public services.

• Contributions from development partners, including UNICEF, UNDP, the World Food Programme (WFP), WHO, and the National Commission for UNESCO, supporting Timor-Leste’s long-term scientific capacity.

• Innovation showcases from the Dili Science Community, Gilsia E-Tech, and independent student innovators, presenting practical solutions in sustainability, soil testing, and technology.

In his remarks, the Vice Prime Minister and Interim Minister for MESCC, Engº Mariano Assanami Sabino, highlighted the contribution of science and technology to everyday development in Timor-Leste:

“For Timor-Leste, science and technology cannot remain distant from our daily development. They must help us address the practical challenges our country faces, improving education and health, strengthening agriculture and food security, protecting our environment, creating economic opportunities, and preparing our young people for a rapidly changing world. This Expo is a vital platform for bringing global researchers together with our own universities, students, and young people, showcasing that innovation already has a place here. Let the conversations begun today spark lasting partnerships and a culture of inquiry that endures long after this Summit concludes.”

The Sci-Tech Expo 2026 runs concurrently with the Science for Development Summit 2026, which has brought a distinguished international speaker to Dili, including Nobel Prize and Turing Award winners, along with other renowned scientists and distinguished guests.

The opening ceremony featured evening performances by Timor Furak, the Presidency Library’s Children’s Group, and a cultural performance from the Doulos Hope Boat Crew, representing South Korea, Argentina, and the Philippines. The programme concluded with a performance by Timorese Artist Ego Lemos and his band.

The Expo continues on Monday, 24 August, and Tuesday, 25 August, with a full schedule of outdoor performances, academic competitions, and interactive demonstrations. Lunch breaks will feature acoustic music by Run Batar (MTA). Monday’s programme includes performances by Ofélia, Sanggar Cota Cora Group, Manumata Group, Red Bull Dance Group, Balide Choir Group, Black Jesus, and Baba Haha Music Band. Tuesday’s programme features poetry, choir, and dance by Projeto CAFE Díli, music by Jesy Lopes and Band, Orlanda Rosalia, Alcatraz Band, and a dance performance by the Doulos Hope Boat Group.

TATOLI