INDUSTRY.co.id – CIKARANG – The Embassy of Timor Leste in Jakarta expressed pride and optimism as 21 freshmen from East Timor were welcomed to President University in Cikarang, West Java, on September 28. The visit marked a significant step in strengthening educational ties between the two neighboring nations.
Marcos da Costa, Counselor and Deputy Head of Mission of East Timor at the Jakarta Embassy, led the delegation and addressed the new students during the welcome ceremony. He emphasized that education remains the cornerstone of Timor Leste's national development strategy as the young nation works to build a qualified workforce across all sectors.
"Our country needs well-trained professionals urgently. Every student who completes their education in Indonesia returns home with knowledge and skills that can directly contribute to our nation's growth," said da Costa during the visit.
Accompanying da Costa was Augusto de Jesus, Assistant Attaché for Education at the East Timor Embassy. Both officials toured the President University campus and met with university leadership to discuss potential expanded cooperation in student exchange and academic programs.
President University, located in the Jababeka Industrial Estate in Cikarang, has built a reputation for its practical, industry-focused curriculum that aligns well with the needs of developing economies. The university's location within an active industrial zone gives students direct access to internship opportunities with multinational companies.
The enrollment of Timorese students at Indonesian universities reflects a broader trend of bilateral cooperation that both governments have been nurturing since Timor Leste's independence. Indonesian universities have increasingly become destinations for students from neighboring countries seeking affordable, quality higher education with a regional context.
