Dili, 14 May 2026 (Media Democracia) – Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) celebrated its 1st anniversary in Timor-Leste with the implementation of hybrid classes for Master’s and Doctoral programs in Timor-Leste. The anniversary was held at the Pusat Budaya Hall, Dili.
According to the UNHAS Liaison Officer in Timor-Leste, Lucio Marçal Gomes, the initiative began based on Hasanuddin University Rector’s Decree No. 06823/2024 regarding his appointment as UNHAS Liaison Officer in Timor-Leste.
“From there, the team started recruitment and outreach for citizens interested in continuing their studies at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral levels. This year, we invited the UNHAS Rector to Timor-Leste together with the Vice Prime Minister to open and formalize the hybrid classes and legalize their existence in Timor. Hybrid classes mean students can attend classes both online and offline. At certain times, students must attend classes in person in Makassar, Indonesia. Professors share material according to the schedule and curriculum, with each subject taught by 4 to 5 professors. According to data up to today, there are 197 Timorese students registered at UNHAS: 85 Doctoral, 97 Master’s, and 15 Bachelor’s.” said UNHAS Liaison Officer in Timor-Leste, Lucio Marçal Gomes, (12/05/2026).
He explained the programs are divided into two: Multidisciplinary in Postgraduate Studies and Monodisciplinary in each faculty. The 18 faculties at UNHAS offer almost 300 Master’s programs. Of the doctoral students, 80% said they have completed their proposals and started the research phase. Research topics focus on the situation and potential of Timor-Leste.
The Indonesian Government Representative, Bunga Malewa, expressed appreciation for this cooperation as a form of partnership between two brotherly nations with close relations, and as a good investment for each country’s development.
“The hybrid mechanism is a good strategy to adapt to changes in time and technology. She also congratulated Lucio on his book publication and said that UNHAS’s quality in Timor-Leste is evident through Dr. Lucio’s presence and his works, including many books, which prove that UNHAS graduates have the capacity to contribute to the nation. New recruitment will reopen in February 2026. The registration process and academic and English potential tests will all be conducted online. Those who pass will receive information from the UNHAS Liaison Officer in Timor-Leste,” said Bunga Malewa.
UNHAS has 18 faculties and two main Postgraduate programs. This hybrid program is supported by bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. Timor-Leste will also celebrate the 24th anniversary of the Restoration of Independence on 20 May 2026.
Report by: Trainees Juliana and Novita
Photo: Trainee Juliana