Dili, 12 March 2026 (Média Democracia) – The National Centre for Chega (CNC), in collaboration with Movimento Letras, Sala Leitura Xanana Gusmaun, Abut, Tio Publishing, and Comite Orientadir 25 (CO25), is organizing a book fair as part of the commeration of the National Veteran’s Day for the nineth time, held at the Chega Museum, Antigu Comarca Balide.
Executive Director of the National Centre for Chega (CNC) Hugo Maria Fernandes says the book fair aims to promote and value the culture of reading in Timor-Leste.
“The main objective of this book fair is to promote the culture of reading among the public, especially students who have difficulty accessing books, it aims to promote and value Timorese intellectuals creations, create a space for dialogue and discussion, provide access to books for the community, promote a reading culture, and showcase various books on history, human rights, peace, and reconciliation in the communities. It also aims to promote the Chega library’s collection and encourage young people to read and learn about Timor-Leste’s history.” said the CNC Executive Director
The book fair will run for 2 days, starting from Wednesday to Thursday this week, and will include activities such as a book fair, book discussions, human library, and storytelling.
The Executive Director also added that the book fair is being held response to Chega Centre mandate, based on Decree Law No.48/2016.
“These activities are being carried out in response to Chega Centre’s mandate, based on Decree Law No. 48/2016, to continue the work previously done by the Commision for Komisaun Akolliamentu Verdade Rekonsiliasaun (CAVR) and the commission for Komisaun Verdade Amizade (CAV). The vision is to preserve the memory of the past as a lesson for the people of Timor-Leste and humanity, to achieve peace. The mission is to establish a post-conflict centre that preserve the memory of the past, promotes human rights and values, builds national and international patnerships, and strengthens networks to implement relevant CAVR and CVA recommendations,” He said.
The activity is being held at the National Centre for Chega (CNC) and involves participation from university students from UNTL, Cristal, 4 de Setembro Secondary School, Timor Oriental Secondary School, and CNC staff.
Reporting : Nélia
Photo : Nélia