ISDB Sends First Non-Salesian Staff Abroad for Graduate Studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada
Dili,Timor-Leste – 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.
Mr. Lerio and Ms. Valeria, who have served as assistant lecturers to Dr. Placido at ISDB for the past two years, will be pursuing Master’s degrees in Philosophy. Meanwhile, Ms. Lucia, a dedicated library staff member, will study for a Master’s degree in Library Science. The trio received partial scholarships from UGM through the Pusat Budaya Indonesia (PBI) in Timor-Leste. Fr. Gui, representing ISDB, accompanied them to Yogyakarta to support their transition.
Prior to their departure, on August 10th, all three signed a formal agreement with ISDB. Under this contract, ISDB commits to providing financial support during their studies, while the staff members pledge to complete their programs on time and serve at ISDB for a minimum of five years upon their return.
This initiative represents a transformative chapter in ISDB’s history, reflecting its growing commitment to capacity-building and academic excellence. It also strengthens institutional ties with Universitas Gadjah Mada, one of Indonesia’s premier universities.
The students have already begun settling into their new academic environment. On Friday, August 15th, they attended campus orientation at UGM. Ms. Lucia commenced her classes on Tuesday, August 19th, while Mr. Lerio and Ms. Valeria are set to begin on Monday, August 25th.
ISDB extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Lerio, Ms. Valeria, and Ms. Lucia, and expresses deep gratitude to UGM, the PBI, and all benefactors whose generous support made this initiative possible. The institution remains hopeful that this investment will significantly enrich the academic community at ISDB in the years to come.