Held in the Senate Meeting Room of Politeknik Statistika STIS, a handover ceremony took place on Tuesday, August 6, marking the official transfer of study assignment students from the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (RDTL) to Politeknik Statistika STIS. This moment signifies the continuation of an educational collaboration between Politeknik Statistika STIS and the Ministry of Finance of Timor-Leste, which has been ongoing since 2011. For the 2023/2024 academic year, 14 students from Timor-Leste have entered their third semester, while for the 2024/2025 academic year, an additional 15 new students have passed the selection process and are set to pursue four years of education at Politeknik Statistika STIS.

Welcoming Remarks and Hopes for Future Collaboration

In his welcoming speech, Vice Director for Academic Affairs, Prof. Setia Permana, Ph.D., extended his congratulations and warm welcome to the newly admitted students. Prof. Setia introduced the available study programs at Politeknik Statistika STIS and explained the upcoming academic journey, including matriculation, PKKMB-PKBN (orientation programs), and the start of lectures scheduled for September.

He also expressed hope that the students would develop their potential in the field of statistics, contributing to statistical development in their home country:

“Indonesia, particularly Polstat STIS, serves as the secretariat of the Regional Hub for Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics in the Asia-Pacific region, of which Timor-Leste is a part. We hope you can explore and develop your skills in statistics and big data, just as your seniors have done,” said Setia.

Appreciation from the Ministry of Finance of RDTL

Meanwhile, Joanico Pinto, Director General of Corporate Service at the Ministry of Finance of RDTL, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome from Politeknik Statistika STIS. He entrusted the students, as future professionals in the Ministry of Finance, to study diligently during their time at STIS.

Pinto also shared that the students had undergone a three-month Indonesian cultural course in Dili, which included learning Bahasa Indonesia, as they primarily use Portuguese in their daily lives. He reminded the students to uphold the values of Timorese culture, especially the importance of respecting elders:

“Don't be afraid to ask questions—‘he who is ashamed to ask will be lost.’ So, don’t hesitate to ask if you’re unsure about something, and make sure to complete your studies on time,” added Pinto.

Closing Ceremony and Handover

The event concluded with the signing of the handover document, exchange of souvenirs, symbolic presentation of student badges, and a group photo session to commemorate the collaboration and new academic journey ahead.