UNTL launches history and psychology degree programs
DÍLI, 21 October 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste’s National University (UNTL) has expanded its humanities programs with the launch of new history and psychology departments, creating opportunities for specialised training and academic research.
The departments were officially launched on 15 October by Vice-Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and acting Minister of Higher Education, Science and Culture Mariano Assanami Sabino, during celebrations marking the 11th anniversary of the university’s Faculty of Philosophy and Human Sciences (FFCH).
The ceremony was held at the Ian Martin Hall on the premises of the National Institute for Training of Teachers and Education Professionals (INFORDEPE) in Dili.
The expansion marks a significant development for the faculty, which has traditionally focused on philosophy. The introduction of history and psychology is expected to broaden its academic offerings and strengthen specialised education and research in the humanities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sabino congratulated UNTL and the faculty on establishing the two new departments, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the quality of higher education and strengthening academic integration within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
He also highlighted the importance of history education in preparing younger generations, saying that understanding the past helps people recognise their origins, strengthen their identity and shape their future.
The initiative aligns with the programme of Timor-Leste’s Ninth Constitutional Government, which prioritises human capital development by improving the quality of and access to education as a foundation for national social and economic progress.
UNTL Rector Joviano António da Costa said the new departments would create further opportunities for specialised training and research. He also highlighted the importance of improving lecturers’ qualifications and developing curricula that respond to Timor-Leste’s needs.
FFCH Dean Faustino Soares said the expansion would diversify the faculty’s academic programmes and strengthen the role of the humanities in the country’s higher education system.
The ceremony was attended by Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, director of UNESCO’s Regional Office in Jakarta, UNESCO representatives in Timor-Leste, university officials, partner institutions, lecturers, researchers, staff and students.
During the event, UNTL and the Chega! National Centre also signed a cooperation agreement covering curriculum development, educational resources and joint research, particularly in the new history and psychology programmes.
The agreement includes support for the history department to incorporate subjects related to history, human rights, transitional justice and peace education into teaching and learning.
The launch broadens the Faculty of Philosophy and Human Sciences’ academic portfolio and creates new opportunities to develop expertise in the humanities in Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
