ANAAA Announces 2025 Accreditation Results at Pusat Budaya Indonesia
Dili, 27 February 2026 – The Agência Nacional para a Avaliação e Acreditação Académica (ANAAA) officially announced the results of the 2025 accreditation process during a formal ceremony held on Friday at the Pusat Budaya Indonesia (PBI).
The 2025 accreditation cycle covered institutional accreditation for two higher education institutions and programmatic accreditation for 21 study programs across the country. Among the programs evaluated was the Social Philosophy Study Program of Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB).
Don Bosco Higher Institute Commemorates the Feast of Saint Callistus Caravario with Institutional Inaugurations and Academic Book Launch
On 25 February 2026, the Don Bosco Higher Institute (ISDB) solemnly commemorated a day of profound spiritual, academic, and institutional significance. The celebrations commenced with a Holy Mass in honor of Saint Callistus Caravario, whose missionary witness and martyrdom continue to inspire the Salesian educational tradition. The Eucharistic celebration gathered members of the academic community, religious representatives, students, and invited guests in an atmosphere marked by gratitude and reflection.
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗦𝗗𝗕, 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
On Friday, 20 February 2026, from 11:00-12:00, a significant meeting was held at 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗼𝗺 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝗰𝗼 (𝗜𝗦𝗗𝗕), Comoro, focusing on strengthening collaboration between ISDB and 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿á𝗹𝗶𝗮.
The discussion brought together distinguished participants, including Ms. 𝗝𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗲 𝗞𝗼𝘀 from Deakin University; Mr. 𝗦𝗶𝗺ã𝗼 𝗱𝗼 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗼 Alumny of Deakin University; Mr. 𝗔𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀 Guterres from INDMO; Fr. 𝗔𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗼 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗿𝗮, Executive Director of the Salesian Educational Foundation; Fr. 𝗔𝗰á𝗰𝗶𝗼 𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗼, Dean of the Faculty of Education at ISDB; Fr. 𝗣𝗹á𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗼 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘀, Lecturer and Director of ISDB Library; and Br. 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿, Lecturer at ISDB.
The election of the ISDB Student Council 2026
Dili, February 7, 2026 – Instituto Superior Dom Bosco held Student Council elections for the 2026 academic year, representing a significant exercise in democratic participation. The electoral process, attended by the Vice Rector, Father Hélio Cabral, PhD, and organized by second-year students, demonstrated active student involvement in leadership and administrative processes. Conducted through a free and secret ballot, the elections upheld principles of transparency, fairness, and inclusive participation across the ISDB academic community.
The 16th Dies Natalis of Instituto Superior Dom Bosco
Dili, January 24, 2026, The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) commemorated its anniversary on Friday, 24 January 2026, through a structured series of activities characterized by solemnity, academic engagement, and communal participation. The celebration involved the full spectrum of the ISDB academic community, including institutional leadership, faculty members, administrative personnel, and students.
Orientation for new ISDB students for the 2026 academic year
Dili, January 22, 2026, Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) conducted a New Student Orientation Program for the 2026 Academic Year. The program was held at the ISDB Comoro Campus in Comoro as part of the institution’s official agenda to familiarize new students with both the academic and non-academic environments before the commencement of formal instruction. This orientation serves as a strategic initial phase in preparing students and fostering their understanding of university life.
ISDB Successfully Organizes Academic Debate Competition to Promote Critical Thinking
On October 25, 2025, the Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) in Díli held a successful Academic Debate Competition, aiming to enhance students’ critical and analytical thinking, communication skills, and academic reasoning. Moderated by Dr. Plácido Teófilo Freitas, the event highlighted the intellectual capacity and confidence of ISDB students in debating ideas with respect and responsibility. The institution thanked both students and lecturers for their active participation and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an environment that supports holistic student development.
ISDB Promotes Philosophy and Pedagogy Programs in Salesian Secondary Schools
Baucau, 27 october 2025 . The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) organized a socialization activity on October 27, 2024, to introduce its Philosophy and Pedagogy programs to students from three Salesian secondary schools in Baucau, Laga, and Venilale. Led by Fr. Acácio Domingos, SDB, and supported by ISDB alumni and students, the event aimed to inform final-year students about the study programs, their curriculum, teaching methods, and career prospects. The session included interactive discussions, where students expressed strong interest in the role of philosophy in education and everyday life. The activity served as a valuable platform to encourage critical thinking and guide students in planning their academic futures.
Staff Workshop Strengthens Knowledge of Timorese Labour Law
Dili, 18 October 2025. 15 staff members from ISDB and SMC participated in a workshop on Timorese Labour Law at Bosconians Cafeteria. Facilitated by Mrs. Estefania Guteres, the session focused on employment contracts, working hours, and legal responsibilities in the workplace. Through practical examples and discussions, participants gained a deeper understanding of labour rights and the importance of compliance with national regulations.
Academic Seminar on the Role and Privileges of Parliament in a Democratic State
Dili, Oct. 18, 2025 – The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) organized an academic seminar aimed at enhancing the understanding of democratic governance, particularly focusing on the role and privileges of parliament. The seminar, held at ISDB’s campus in Comoro, gathered more than 400 participants from various academic institutions, student organizations, and civil society groups. The keynote speaker was Dr. Armindo Moniz Amaral, Ph.D.
ISDB Students Achieve Fourth Place in National Public Speaking Competition
Dili, Oct. 10, 2025. Two students from the Institute of Social Development Baucau (ISDB), Olga and Olavio, secured fourth place in the national public speaking competition organized by ANAAA. Competing in English and Portuguese categories on October 8 and 9 respectively, they addressed the impact of accreditation on higher education. The results were announced on October 10, with ISDB placing fourth in both categories among ten participating institutions.
ISDB and UNTL Hold Seminar on Labor Migration and Ethics
Dili, Oct. 2-3, 2025 — The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) and the National University of Timor-Lorosa’e (UNTL) co-hosted a two-day international seminar in Dili on labor migration, ethics, and national development. Over 500 participants attended discussions on the challenges and opportunities of Timorese workers abroad, with speakers calling for stronger migration policies and greater investment in local development.
ISDB Students Gracia and Job Win Third Place in National Debate Final
Dili, September 27, 2025. Students Gracia and Job from Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) earned 3rd place in the National University Public Debate Final held on 27 September 2025 in Dili. Competing under the theme “Timor-Leste Should Prioritise Internal Reforms Before Fully Joining ASEAN,” the ISDB team impressed judges and audiences with their strong arguments and public speaking skills.
ISDB Staff Join Digital Content Creation Workshop in Dili
Dili, September 24, 2025. Five staff members from Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) participated in a one-day Content Creator Workshop held on 24 September 2025 at Pusat Budaya Indonesia (PBI) in Dili. Organized by Muhammad Yusran and Muhammad Arsan, the workshop brought together journalists and university lecturers to enhance skills in digital content creation, branding, and social media engagement. ISDB’s representative, Rosa Fátima Ximenes Correia, highlighted the training’s practical value in improving institutional communication and recommended similar training for other staff in the future.
Internet Improvements Underway at ISDB
Dili, September 21, 2025. Mr. Abreu, a lecturer at UNTL’s Faculty of Engineering, and his students have begun installing new devices to improve internet connectivity at ISDB in Comoro, Dili. Since its founding in 2012, ISDB has struggled with limited internet coverage, even after using Star Link. The new installation aims to expand the network range, supporting teaching, research, and digital services like the library and administration. The work is still ongoing but expected to be completed by the end of the month, benefiting the ISDB academic community.
Salesian Youth Movement Holds Formation on Saints at ISDB
Dili, September 20, 2025. The Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) held its annual gathering in Comoro, Dili, from September 19–21, 2025, with the theme “Ancorados na esperança, peregrinos com os jovens” (“Anchored in hope, pilgrims with the young”), inspired by the 2025 Strenna of the Rector Major. Young animators from various Salesian oratories participated in a weekend of prayer, formation, and fellowship.
ISDB Strengthens Administrative and Academic Teams with New Hires
Dili, Timor-Leste, September 20, 2025. Rosa Appointed as New Librarian Following September 6 Interview; Lindalva Joins Finance and Logistics Support Team After September 20 Recruitment. The Department of Finance and Human Resources at ISDB continues to enhance institutional capacity by recruiting key staff. Rosa has officially started as Librarian, while Lindalva has been selected to support finance and logistics operations, bringing experience from the Provincial Economic Office.
Ministry Team Monitors Subsidy Use at ISDB
Dili, Timor-Leste – September 17, 2025 – A team from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture visited the Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) on Wednesday to oversee the implementation of the 2025 Public Subsidy.
The supervisory visit focused on ensuring that the subsidy is properly applied and managed in line with government guidelines. ISDB officials welcomed the delegation and thanked the Ministry for its support in strengthening higher education.
Minister Meets University Representatives Over Student Protests
Dili, Timor-Leste – September 17, 2025 – The Minister of Higher Education met with student affairs representatives on Wednesday to discuss nationwide student protests against parliament’s plan to purchase new cars and maintain lifetime pensions (pensão vitalícia) for state leaders. The meeting was held at 9:00 a.m. in the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture (MESCC) hall in Dili.
Seminar on Eviction
Comoro, on September 13, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco, with support from the Ministry of Higher Education and Culture, held a seminar on eviction, focusing on both legal and moral perspectives. Dr. Sérgio presented the legal aspects, while Dr. Plácido addressed the moral implications. Around 800 students and youth attended the event, which included a question-and-answer session and distribution of participation certificates. The seminar ran from 8:30 AM to 12:15 PM and encouraged active engagement on the issue of housing rights and social justice.
THE ART OF SPEAKING
On August 23, 2025
ISDB Welcomes Accreditation Team for Social Philosophy Program Evaluation
On August 22, 2025
ISDB officially began the two-day site visit for the programmatic accreditation of its Social Philosophy Study Program on August 22, 2025, marking a key milestone in its academic development. The accreditation panel, consisting of national and international experts under ANAAA, was welcomed with a traditional ceremony and engaged in a full day of meetings with ISDB leadership, faculty, students, alumni, and stakeholders. The visit also showcased ISDB’s recent institutional advancements, including curriculum reform, strategic planning, and the transition from IFFS to ISDB—reflecting the institution’s strong commitment to academic quality and continuous improvement.
ISDB SENT THREE STAFF TO UGM
On August 11, 2025
In a significant milestone for the Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB), three of its staff members have been sent to pursue graduate studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Departing on August 11th, Mr. Lerio, Ms. Valeria, and Ms. Lucia embarked on this new academic journey, marking the first time ISDB has sent non-Salesian staff abroad for further studies.
ISDB HOSTS INAUGURAL ALUMNI CONGRESS
On August 1–2, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) successfully held its first-ever Alumni Congress on August 1–2, 2025, at the school’s multipurpose hall. The two-day event brought together former students to formally establish the ISDB Alumni Association. On the first day, participants engaged in in-depth discussions to define the association’s legal framework. Following a productive and collaborative debate, the congress approved the official statutes, marking a significant milestone in the alumni network’s development.
ISDB’S FOURTH GRADUATION CEREMONY, YEAR 2025
On July 11, 2025
ISDB held its fourth graduation with 25 graduates, who received a ministerial decree from the “IX Constitutional Government”, Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture, number 21/VI/MESCC2025. The ceremony was attended by His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Culture, ANAAA President, INCT President’s Representative, SDB TLS Provincial and FMA Timor-Indonesia, family and friends of the graduates, ISDB students, etc.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universitas Terbuka (UT)
Dili, June 16, 2025
Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) represented by Fr. Acacio Domingos de Castro, M.Ed, Dean of the Faculty of Education Sciences, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universitas Terbuka (UT) represented by the Rector, Dr. Mohamad Yunus, S.S., M.A.
ISDB Comoro Dili Advances Curriculum with Outcome-Based Education Seminar
Dili, May 30, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) Comoro Dili successfully conducted a five-day seminar-workshop on Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum renewal from May 26-30, 2024, at the ISDB Multi-Purpose Hall. Facilitated by experts from the Philippine Normal University (PNU), the event brought together faculty members and lecturers, particularly from the Faculty of Philosophy, to align academic programs with modern educational standards.
Let’s Green Our Common House
Dili, May 10, 2025
ISDB, in collaboration with the Laudato Si’ Movement Timor-Leste, implemented a reforestation initiative at the hill of João Paulo II in Tasi-tolu. The event was attended by students and young people who expressed an interest in improving our common home.
Portuguese Language Course Certificates Awarded at ISDB
Dili, April 23, 2025
A total of 43 students and staff members of the Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) received certificates on Wednesday afternoon after successfully completing a semester-long Portuguese language course. The ceremony was held from 14:30 to 15:30 in the Great Hall of ISDB.
ISDB Hosts Leadership Seminar Featuring Dr. Fidelis Magalhães
Comoro, April 5, 2025
The Student Senate of Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) successfully organized a public seminar on April 5, 2025, under the theme “Leadership Formation.” The event was held at the ISDB campus in Comoro, Dili, and drew an impressive crowd of approximately 1,200 university students from across East Timor.
Job Freitas Cabral Elected as New Student Senate Leader at ISDB
February 22, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) has successfully conducted its student senate election for the 2025 academic year, marking the beginning of a new leadership era for the institution’s student body. The election took place on Friday, with the participation of the ISDB’s rector, faculty members, staff, students, and senior members of the student council.
Public Consultation Launches Strategic Plan Development for ISDB (2025-2030)
February 8, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) commenced its public consultation to define the institution’s Strategic Plan for 2025-2030, marking the first in a series of structured meetings aimed at shaping the institute’s future direction. The event took place on February 8 at ISDB’s premises (Aula Magna) and brought together a wide range of stakeholders for collaborative discussions.
ISDB Holds Campus Orientation for Freshmen
February 7, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) warmly welcomed its newest batch of freshmen during the annual campus orientation program. Organized by Fr. Casimiro and members of the Student Senate, the event aimed to introduce the incoming students to life at ISDB and guide them through the essential processes and resources available at the institute.
The orientation featured comprehensive sessions on various administrative procedures, including how to handle payments, apply for exams, and produce academic papers. Students were also introduced to “Biblioteca Nacher,” ISDB’s library, which plays a pivotal role in supporting learning and research.
ISDB Conducts Second Round of Admission Test for Faculty of Philosophy
February 5, 2025
The Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) hosted the second round of admission tests for its Faculty of Philosophy today, welcoming 28 candidates to its campus in Dom Bosco Comoro, Dili. The testing session ran from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM, marking an important milestone in the selection process for the academic year.
Online Collaboration with Philippine Normal University for Social Philosophy Curriculum Revision
February 3, 2025
The ISDB curriculum review team held its third online meeting with experts from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) to revise the Social Philosophy study program offered by the Faculty of Philosophy. This series of consultations aims to enhance the program’s relevance and quality to better align with the institution’s educational goals.
Swearing-in Ceremony of the New Structure of Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB)
January 24, 2025
Dili, Timor-Leste – On the occasion of the Feast of Saint Francis de Sales, the patron saint of the Salesian Congregation and the Institute of Philosophy of St. Francis de Sales (IFFS), the newly appointed leadership of Instituto Superior Dom Bosco (ISDB) was formally sworn in at a ceremony attended by faculty, students, and members of the local community.