Writer: Duke Paopathon Pardede (2461001) | Editor: Ambarwulan, S.T.
Dili, Timor-Leste — November 26, 2025.
As part of its continued commitment to expanding international partnerships, Universitas Internasional Batam (UIB) conducted a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture (MESCC) of Timor-Leste. The UIB delegation was formally received by H.E. Dr. José Honório, Minister of Higher Education, accompanied by the Minister’s Chief of Cabinet and the Coordinator of the Partnership and Cooperation Unit, during a meeting held at the MESCC Office in Dili.
The delegation from UIB consisted of Dr. Hepy Hefri Ariyanto, Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation; Tony Wibowo, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science; Dr. Hari Sutra Disemadi, S.H., M.H., Head of the Law Study Program; and dr. Aries Maulana, Sp.PA, Head of the Undergraduate Medical Study Program. This visit represented the third major engagement in UIB’s mission trip to Timor-Leste, following earlier meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Human Capital Development Fund.
During the meeting, UIB extended its appreciation for the warm reception and presented an overview of the university’s academic strengths, international programs, and ongoing initiatives in collaborative education. The discussion focused on strengthening existing relations and identifying opportunities for future cooperation, particularly in study programs that align with Timor-Leste’s higher education priorities. These include Civil Engineering, Architecture, Information Systems and Technology, Biology, Accounting, Law, English Language Education, Nutrition, and Medicine.
H.E. Dr. José Honório welcomed UIB’s proactive efforts in building long-term academic cooperation with institutions across Timor-Leste. He emphasized the importance of forming strategic partnerships that support the development of human resources, improve academic quality, and expand international exposure for Timorese students and educators. The Minister also highlighted the ministry’s commitment to fostering cross-border collaboration that contributes to national capacity-building.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding to advance dialogue on more structured cooperation frameworks, potentially including student mobility programs, faculty engagement, joint academic activities, and other initiatives that support both nations’ educational goals. The MESCC conveyed its openness to continued communication with UIB as efforts progress toward developing concrete academic partnerships.
This visit marked another significant milestone in UIB’s regional engagement strategy, underscoring the university’s dedication to strengthening collaboration with governmental and educational institutions in Timor-Leste.
International Relation Office
Universitas Internasional Batam
