DILI, TIMOR-LESTE—In a significant move to enhance educational cooperation between Indonesia and Timor-Leste, Pak Ouda, a lecturer from the Magister Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris (MPBI), and Pak Thomas, head of the MPBI alumni association, visited Instituto Sao Joao De Britto (ISJB) on April 8, 2025.

The visit, which falls under the Intensive English Language Program for Internationalization (IELPI) extension program, marks an important step in strengthening the ties between the two institutions. ISJB, one of the oldest higher education institutions in Timor-Leste, currently employs two MPBI alumni as lecturers, highlighting the existing connection between the organizations.

"This visit represents our commitment to fostering meaningful educational partnerships across borders," said Pak Ouda during the opening meeting with ISJB officials. "We're particularly proud to see our alumni contributing to Timor-Leste's educational landscape."

The delegation engaged in comprehensive discussions with ISJB leadership to identify specific areas where USD could offer support. These discussions covered multiple dimensions of potential collaboration, including student formation programs, pathways for ISJB lecturers to pursue Master's and Doctoral degrees outside Timor-Leste, possible joint research initiatives, and institutional internationalization strategies.

Pak Thomas emphasized the importance of alumni connections in building sustainable partnerships. "Our alumni serve as natural bridges between institutions. Their first-hand experience with both educational systems provides invaluable insights for developing effective collaboration frameworks," he noted during a roundtable discussion with faculty members.

The ISJB leadership expressed particular interest in developing faculty exchange programs and establishing research partnerships focused on regional development issues.