Centro Nacional Chega! I.P, From Memory to Hope was established by Decree-Law No. 48/2016 on December 14th with the vision of “Inclusive societies, history of the past to be unrepeated, living peacefully, and respecting human rights.” Its mission is to establish post-conflict centers, preserve the memories of the past, promote the values of human rights, build national and international partners, and strengthen the network to implement the relevant recommendations made in the final Report of the Commission for Reception, Truth, and Reconciliation (CAVR)-Chega!, and Truth and Friendship Commission (TFC) – Per Memoriam Ad Spem.”
To respond to this mission, Centro Chega! has established a library to keep various books regarding history and human rights. Hence, from May to June 2025, many students were interested in visiting Chega! Library to read the various books, such as the Reports of Chega! and Per Memoriam Ad Spem, Historical Site Booklet, Memory of 7 December 1975, Women with Conflicts, Children with Conflicts, Penjara Komarka Balide (Balide Prison), Xanana, Sabemos e Podemos e Devemos Vencer (We Know, We can and We Must Win), etc. Below are their experiences and thoughts after accessing Chega! Library:
“I am proud to visit Chega Library as we were served very good by the Librarian, and felt safe. I recommend that students from primary to university come to Chega! Library freely.” – Evaristo G. de Almeida, Department of Philosophy, UNTL
“Enthusiastically, for me to read history books in the Chega! Library where I learn the history of the past – it is valuable for my future. Here is a safe Library. I encourage the other students to visit Chega! Library.” – Epifania Ximenes, Department of Physical and Sports Education, UNTL
“I am motivated and comfortable reading books and doing my projects at Chega! Library. I am inspired and gain insights by speaking with authors indirectly, especially in the fields of history and biography. I am interested in exploring Timor-Leste’s history more. Therefore, I encourage my friends to visit Chega! Library anytime.” – Efrem Ximenes Guterres, Department of Civil Engineering, UNTL.
The Library of Centro Chega! Calls everyone to spend as much time as possible exploring more of the history of Timor-Leste through the available books.
Read: Tetum Version