Dili, February 12, 2026 – Centro Nacional Chega!I.P, in collaboration with the Universidade da Paz (UNPAZ), held a regular discussion at the UNPAZ Campus in Manleuana, focused on “Chega! Report Chapter III: History of the Conflict”, which was attended by 87 students from UNPAZ. The speakers were Nuno Rodrigues Thcailoro, a researcher who presented on the “History of Conflict,” and Jacinto R. Alves, a former Commissioner of the Commission for Reception, Truth and Reconciliation (CAVR) and the Commission for Truth and Friendship (CVA), who delivered insights on “A Reflection for Criticism of Colonial Power, Domination, and to Cause of Conflict.” The discussion aimed to inspire students to think critically about historical events, encouraging them to reflect and discuss the past and its implications for the future. The event also sought to disseminate knowledge about the history of the struggle and to motivate students to explore the memories preserved at Centro Chega! I.P.
In his opening speech, Alexandre Ornay Pinto, representing the Executive Director of Centro Chega! I.P highlighted the importance of regularly discussing “Chega! Report Chapter III: History of the Conflict.” This initiative aims to enrich students’ knowledge of the historical struggle for Timor-Leste’s independence. He emphasized that these discussions provide students with the opportunity to learn about the past and human rights issues during the period from 1974 to 1999. By engaging with important speakers who were actively involved in the fight for self-determination, students can gain valuable insights from their experiences.
Fernando Dias Gusmão, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FCSH) at UNPAZ, expressed his appreciation for Centro Chega! for organizing regular discussions with UNPAZ. He emphasized the importance of these discussions in deepening students’ knowledge and encouraged them to be active and participate to learn the subject effectively. Additionally, he confirmed that UNPAZ will continue to collaborate with Centro Chega! in the future.
Agusto da Costa, a student at UNPAZ, expressed his delight in participating in this discussion, where he could enhance his understanding of the historical struggle of the people of Timor-Leste for independence.
Regular discussions are held as part of the activities for developing the Centro Chega! library, which is part of a memorialization program. This initiative provides a platform for public speaking to foster peace and justice and to ensure that people are free from future violence. This year, the Division of Education and Training (DEF) continues to carry out this activity aimed at enhancing both students’ and the public’s understanding of historical events.
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