Dili, 16 May 2025 – 50 college students from Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL), Universidade de Dili (UNDIL), Universidade Católica Timorense (UCT), Universidade da Paz (UNPAZ), and Dili Institute of Technology (DIT) thanked Centro Chega! and UNPAZ for their collaboration on conducting an educational activity led by Chega! Young Ambassador (CYA), supported by GIZ Southeast Asia University Partnership for Peace (SAUP). The visit to the Chega! Museum was a significant opportunity for them to learn about the historical context, including the Dark Cells that served as a detention center, along with the associated themes of torture and various human rights violations. Additionally, they participated in a screening of the film “Hatutan Memória,” which portrays the memories of survivors.
Gercia Lizenia Mendes dos Santos, a student at UCT, was thrilled to visit the Chega! Museum to experience the Dark Cells firsthand once she gained entry. Reflecting on the journey to independence, she acknowledged that it was not easy, as many people were tortured and faced numerous violations, which ultimately led to the deaths of many.
“I am proud of the Chega! Museum. After my visit, my understanding of the history of the independence process has greatly increased. Until now, I had only heard about the history of Timor-Leste from others. However, when I visited the Chega! Museum, I saw photos and videos that allowed me to learn more. This is my first time here, and I encourage every student to visit this museum to learn about the struggles and sacrifices of the fighters, which we should consider as a reference for our future. Let’s make an effort for the betterment of our country,” Gercia expressed gratefully.
Furthermore, she mentioned that it is important for students to learn about history. Centro Chega! is encouraged to continue this initiative and invite victims and survivors to share their diverse stories, particularly those that are often overlooked. For instance, those who suffered during the war and faced punishment — details of which remain largely unknown, including how they were treated or fed. It was the reality. Consequently, we recognize that achieving this emancipation is not easy, as young people must actively engage in this process.
In addition to Santino Barros, a lecturer at UNPAZ, said that the activity is held to commemorate the International Day of Museums. This year’s theme is “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” with a specific focus on “Rooms for Education, Creative Development, and Knowledge Enrichment in History and Science.” It is essential to engage with this theme. Visiting the Chega! Museum can deepen one’s understanding of history and honor our nation’s heroes.
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