Phnom Penh, A delegation from Timor-Leste, comprising high-level government officials, concluded a pivotal three-day visit to Cambodia from February 20 to 22, 2024, for an International Benchmarking Training on Conflict Reconciliation and Peacebuilding. This initiative, orchestrated by the UNESCO offices in Phnom Penh and Jakarta in collaboration with the governments of Timor-Leste and Cambodia, aimed to foster exchange on effective practices and lessons in peacebuilding and reconciliation.
According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the training assembled 15 Timorese delegates from the Chega National Centre, the National Institute for Training of Teachers and Education Professionals, among other key institutions. The program facilitated an invaluable knowledge and experience exchange, leveraging Cambodia’s rich history and extensive work in reconciliation and peacebuilding to support Timor-Leste’s related efforts.
The collaboration encompassed contributions from numerous Cambodian entities, including the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the Royal Palace. These engagements enriched the Timorese officials’ understanding and appreciation of Cambodia’s complex history and heritage, offering insights into the development of high-quality history and peace education.
Mr. Sardar Umar Alam, UNESCO’s representative to Cambodia, underscored the critical role of history education in nations navigating their complex historical narratives. He emphasized its importance in shaping identities, promoting social cohesion, and averting future conflicts.
Both Cambodia and Timor-Leste, having emerged from periods of conflict, are committed to rebuilding and fostering peace within their societies. Through this training, the Timorese delegation gained valuable insights into Cambodia’s approach to heritage promotion, memory preservation, and educational quality, which are expected to inform similar initiatives in Timor-Leste.
Mr. Hugo Maria Fernandes, Executive Director of the Chega National Centre, remarked on the profound impact of the visit, highlighting the enriched perspective and strategies gained for Timor-Leste’s peacebuilding endeavors. The experience in Cambodia is set to influence ongoing and future policies and initiatives aimed at preserving historical memory and enhancing educational frameworks in Timor-Leste.