Timorese alumni celebrate

The longstanding relationship between Timor-Leste and Charles Darwin University has been celebrated by the region’s former Prime Minister and other Timorese alumni.

His Excellency Xanana Gusmão was guest of honour at the CDU Timor-Leste Alumni Celebration in Dili, which was attended by his niece Maria da Graca Gusmão and more than 20 alumni.

The presence of attendees who had more than one alumnus in their families, such as Mr Gusmão and his niece, reflected the valued university experience and endorsement of CDU within families.

Timor-Leste Vice Minister of Health and alumnus Dr Ana Isabel Soares also joined the event with her daughter, Xaninha Soares, who recently graduated at CDU with an Australia Awards scholarship.

Senior East Timorese Government officials and Australian Embassy staff also attended the event, hosted by CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Sharon Bell.

Professor Bell said the event recognised CDU’s ongoing commitment to Timor-Leste, and also the important contributions that its Timorese alumni had made towards advancing the region.

“We value our longstanding research and teaching relationships with Timor-Leste and continue to celebrate the achievements of our graduates as they lead and shape their own futures and the future of their country,” Professor Bell said.