USAID/Timor-Leste: Newsroom

Photo: The National University's faculty members attending the inaugural computer literacy training at the newly opened e-Learning Center in Dili.

NEWS RELEASE

USAID, UNTL Open e-Learning Centers
(June 1, 2009)

On June 1, 2009, U.S. Ambassador Hans Klemm and USAID Representative Mark Anthony White were joined by former Minister of Education Armindo Maia (representing National University of Timor-Leste -- UNTL -- Rector Benjamin Corte-Real), and Director-General for Higher Education Abrão dos Santos, in inaugurating the e-Learning Centers at two UNTL campuses in the capital Dili.

Funded by a USAID grant, these new state-of-the-art centers offer technology training and a high-speed internet connection that will equip UNTL students with the skills needed to participate in today's global and knowledge-based economy. Through the e-Learning Centers, Economics, Social, and Political Science students will have free access to computers and training in basic computer literacy and using the internet for research.

U.S Ambassador Klemm said in his remarks that the e-Learning Centers are a major step forward in the history of U.S. assistance to UNTL, as they will offer students "an important tool to compete in the global marketplace and contribute to the development of Timor-Leste."

Continuing the rehabilitation of UNTL's main building that was supported by USAID in September 2000, the U.S. Navy Seabees are now performing much-needed renovation work at UNTL. The U.S. Embassy has also assisted UNTL with English language training and, in partnership with The Asia Foundation, donated textbooks for the university's use.

"When you step into this eLearning Center, you are connected to the world, that's why it's called the World Wide Web. Your access to information just became unlimited," USAID Representative Mark Anthony White told the students in his opening remarks.

Under the project, a cybercafé will also be established soon at the UNTL library. The cybercafé will offer the same services to other UNTL teachers and students for a minimal fee to help the university maintain the e-Learning Centers.

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