How many futures have been shaped within these walls? The UNTL Faculdade Ciencia de Saude Lahane stands before you a testament to resilience and hope.
This is more than just a building. It’s a story etched in the very stones. A story of perseverance against unimaginable odds. It’s a history deeply entwined with Timor-Leste’s fight for independence. Before the UNTL existed a precursor school trained teachers. This school the Escola de Habilitaçao de Professores Engenheiro Canto Resende played a crucial role. It educated future generations even under Portuguese rule.
The Indonesian occupation brought darkness. UNTIM the predecessor to UNTL was largely focused on producing mid-level administrators. Research was discouraged. Critical thinking was suppressed. The Indonesian government even closed UNTIM temporarily. The Indonesian military and its militia also destroyed the education system. This included UNTIM and the Polytechnic. Ninety-five percent of school buildings were destroyed.
Yet from the ashes a new university rose. The UNTL Faculdade Ciencia de Saude Lahane stands as a symbol of rebirth. It opened its doors in 2000. This was just two months later than planned because of the destruction. The faculty shared a single classroom. They had just a few old tables and chairs. There wasn’t even a proper library or computer network.
But the spirit of Timor-Leste prevailed. Students faculty and international partners joined forces. They rebuilt not only buildings but also hope. The UNTL Faculdade Ciencia de Saude Lahane trains medical professionals. It offers a variety of courses including medicine nursing and pharmacy. It’s now a leading institution in Timor-Leste. The UNTL Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences has an ambitious vision. They aim for excellence in education and research. The faculty is committed to training competent healthcare professionals for the future.
Today the UNTL Faculdade Ciencia de Saude Lahane is a vibrant center of learning. It’s a place where the future of healthcare is forged. It’s a place of knowledge healing and transformation. It’s a place that stands as a beacon of progress. A testament to what can be achieved even in the face of adversity. As you leave today remember this place. Remember its story. Remember the hope it represents for Timor-Leste.