News & Events
Stories from campus — celebrations, ceremonies and moments that shape student life at UCT.
The board
What is happening on campus
Ceremonies, cultural days and official updates — posted as a dated campus bulletin, not a magazine feed.
President of Timor-Leste Meets Indian Prime Minister
President of Timor-Leste Visits India – Strengthening Bilateral Ties The President of Timor-Leste, His Excellency Dr. José Ramos-Horta, paid an official visit to India from January 8–10, 2024, to attend the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit held in Gandhinagar. This historic visit marked the first-ever Head of Government-level engagement between the two nations. During his stay, President Horta met with Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who extended a warm welcome to the visiting delegation. In their discussions, President Horta expressed appreciation for India’s longstanding friendship and sought India’s support in strengthening Timor-Leste’s development goals, especially in key sectors such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, IT, and agriculture. The meeting also covered broader regional dynamics, including developments in the Indo-Pacific. President Horta voiced his full support for India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council. Both leaders emphasized the need for continued collaboration in multilateral forums and appreciated the importance of presenting a unified voice for the Global South. Prime Minister Modi, in turn, acknowledged Timor-Leste’s active engagement in both editions of the Voice of Global South Summit. This visit further deepened the bond between India and Timor-Leste—an alliance founded on shared democratic values, inclusivity, and mutual respect. India’s early recognition of Timor-Leste’s independence in 2002 and the establishment of diplomatic relations laid a strong foundation for this growing partnership.
Drug Awareness Program at UCT
Empowering Students to Lead a Drug-Free Future In alignment with its mission to educate responsible and ethical medical professionals, UCT hosted an impactful Drug Awareness Program to inform students about the dangers of substance abuse and addiction. The program emphasized the dual role of medical students as learners and future community leaders. Experts from the healthcare sector, psychologists, and social workers delivered engaging talks on the physical, mental, and social impact of drug use. Real-life stories, visual presentations, and interactive Q&A sessions made the event dynamic and thought-provoking. The session covered topics such as peer pressure, addiction cycles, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation. Students were also encouraged to participate in future awareness campaigns and become ambassadors for a drug-free society. This initiative reaffirmed UCT’s commitment to holistic education—where professional knowledge is paired with moral responsibility and social awareness.
MoU Partnership Signing Ceremony
Academic Partnership Signing Ceremony for MBBS Program at UCT The prestigious Academic Partnership Signing Ceremony for the International MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) Program in Timor-Leste was held at the campus of Universidade Católica Timorense (UCT). This significant event marks a new chapter in the advancement of medical education in the country. The ceremony was honored by the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including H.E. Mariano Assanami Sabino, Vice Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, and the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Jose Honorio Da Costa Pereira Jeronimo. Adding spiritual grace to the occasion, His Eminence Cardinal Virgílio do Carmo da Silva also attended the event. The academic leadership of UCT was well represented by Dr. Joel Casimiro Pinto, the Hon’ble Rector, and Dr. Sergio Lobo, the respected Dean of UCT. Dr. Nilton D. Paiva Mau, Executive Director of the National Agency for Academic Assessment & Accreditation (ANAAA), also participated, highlighting the strong commitment to maintaining academic standards and quality assurance. The partnership was formalized with IndoMed Educare Pvt. Ltd., India, represented by Dr. Raja Thangappan, Chairman of IndoMed. This collaboration aims to bring globally recognized medical education standards to Timor-Leste, opening new pathways for aspiring medical students in the region. This milestone event underscores UCT’s dedication to international collaboration and academic excellence in the field of healthcare education.
White Coat Ceremony 2024: A Doctor’s First Step
On November 5th, 2024, the Universidade Católica Timorense (UCT) proudly hosted its White Coat Ceremony in Chennai, marking a memorable milestone in the academic journey of its aspiring medical students. This significant event celebrated the students’ symbolic transition from the classroom to the clinical phase of their medical education, as they donned their white coats for the very first time. In a heartfelt and dignified atmosphere, students stood before their parents, peers, and faculty members to take the Hippocratic Oath—pledging their dedication to ethical practice, compassion, and excellence in patient care. The ceremony served not only as a rite of passage but also as a solemn reminder of the responsibility that comes with the medical profession. The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, proud parents, and healthcare leaders, who shared words of wisdom and encouragement. Their inspiring messages highlighted the importance of empathy, integrity, and lifelong learning in the journey of becoming a successful healthcare professional. The White Coat Ceremony 2024 will remain a cherished memory for all attendees—a celebration of purpose, passion, and the promise of a bright future in medicine.
Holi at UCT: A Celebration of Color and Culture
Embracing Culture, Color, and Community Spirit UCT’s vibrant campus turned into a canvas of joy and color during its Holi celebration, where students and faculty from all backgrounds joined together to celebrate India’s beloved Festival of Colors. The event featured traditional music, organic colors, Indian sweets, and dance performances that showcased cultural unity and togetherness. Hosted in a safe and joyful environment, Holi at UCT brought international and local students closer, celebrating diversity through fun and shared experiences. The event wasn’t just about colors — it symbolized inclusion, friendship, and cultural respect, key values that define life at UCT. Students laughed, danced, and celebrated without boundaries, creating memories that extend far beyond textbooks and classrooms.
Your White Coat Journey Starts Here
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