Strategic Collaboration: Institutu Superior Cristal and Gadjah Mada University Sign MoU

Dili, November 27, 2025 – In a significant development for higher education cooperation, the Rector of Institutu Superior Cristal (ISC), Prof. Dr. Sebastião Pereira, attended the inauguration ceremony for the alumni ambassador of Gadjah Mada University (UGM) from Timor-Leste. The event took place at the Indonesian Cultural Center in Kaikoli, Dili, and was officiated by the Rector of UGM.

Following the ceremony, ISC and UGM took an important step in strengthening their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement, signed by both Rectors, aims to enhance collaboration within three critical pillars of higher education:

  1. Education: This involves the establishment of student exchange programs and the development of curricula that align with international standards.

  2. Research: The MoU facilitates joint research initiatives that aspire to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community and address pressing social issues.

  3. Community Service: Both institutions commit to launching initiatives that provide tangible benefits to local communities, fostering a spirit of service and engagement.

This collaborative endeavor is anticipated to significantly enhance academic capacities and the quality of human resources within both institutions. It also aims to strengthen networks in the educational sector, thereby enriching the academic landscape in Timor-Leste and Indonesia.Through this MoU, ISC and UGM reaffirm their commitment to cultivating graduates who are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of a globalized world and address contemporary challenges.


Evaluation of the Bachelor’s Program in Horticulture and Post-Harvest at Instituto Superior Cristal

Dili, November 7, 2025 – Today, Institut Superior Cristal (ISC) hosted an evaluation of its Bachelor’s Program in Horticulture and Post-Harvest, led by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Culture (MESSK). The evaluation was conducted by Dr. Luis Aparício, Head of the National Directorate of Legalization at MESSK, together with evaluators Dr. Marçal Gusmão and Dr. Delfin da Costa.

As part of the evaluation process, ISC presented the program, outlining its criteria, documentation, and the vision and mission behind its establishment. This presentation aimed to provide the evaluators with a comprehensive understanding of the institution's commitment to delivering quality education.

Following the presentation, the evaluation team proceeded with a site visit to various facilities on campus. They inspected laboratories, classrooms, libraries, and other infrastructures that support the learning process for students.

The event was attended by key figures, including the Executive President of the Cristal Foundation, Prof. Dr. Agostinho dos Santos Gonçalves, and the Rector of ISC, Prof. Dr. Sebastião Pereira. The presence of Vice Rectors, the Director of the Master’s Program, and the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences demonstrated robust support for the evaluation.

The assessment of the Bachelor’s Program in Horticulture and Post-Harvest also serves as a preliminary step towards launching new programs in the field of agriculture. It is hoped that this initiative will address educational needs in the agricultural sector and contribute significantly to the community.

Through this evaluation, the program is expected not only to improve but also to adapt to existing challenges, opening new avenues for students to explore various aspects of the agricultural sector. The results of this evaluation are anticipated to provide constructive feedback for future improvements and innovations.

With a strong commitment, ISC aims to strengthen collaboration between educational institutions and the government, enhancing the quality of education relevant to societal needs and affirming its role in producing capable human resources ready to meet the dynamics of the industry.