Timor-Leste and Brawijaya University strengthen cooperation in the fields of higher education and rural development
DÍLI, 08 October 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste and Brawijaya University in Indonesia have signed two Memoranda of Understanding to strengthen cooperation in higher education, science, research and rural development.
The agreements were signed during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing Mariano Assanami Sabino to the university in Malang, East Java, on October 4–5.
Sabino signed the agreements as Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing and acting Minister for Higher Education, Science and Culture, while Universitas Brawijaya Rector Professor Widodo signed on behalf of the university.
One of the agreements establishes a framework for cooperation in teaching, research and community service under Indonesia’s Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi, or the three pillars of higher education.
The partnership is expected to create more opportunities for Timorese students and academics through scholarships, academic exchanges, joint-degree and dual-degree programs, as well as joint research.
The two sides also discussed postgraduate education, including master’s and doctoral programs, and opportunities for knowledge sharing and transfer.
Sabino called for the commitments set out in the agreements to be turned into practical programs and activities.
He proposed establishing a joint technical team to develop a timetable and work program for implementing the agreed areas of cooperation.
The agreements build on contacts between the Timor-Leste government and Brawijaya University.
It’s recalled the university delegation visited Timor-Leste from April 23–25 and met Sabino to discuss potential cooperation in agriculture, human-resource training and development of the coffee value chain.
Brawijaya University has also received 42 applications from Timorese students for its scholarship program, with 11 applicants selected, according to information presented during the visit.
Sabino met Timorese students studying at the university and took part in academic activities during his visit. He is also a former Brawijaya student, having begun studying agriculture there in 1991.
A second memorandum focuses on rural and community development and establishes a framework for joint initiatives between Brawijaya University and the Ministry of Rural Development and Community Housing.
The two agreements provide a basis for expanded cooperation in education and training, research, knowledge exchange and rural and community development between Timor-Leste and the Indonesian university.
TATOLI
