On the third day of the World University Association for Community Development (WUACD) international community development program in Timor Leste, a series of workshops and lectures focused on economic development were held at the Faculty of Economics, Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL). These sessions aimed to enhance the financial literacy and practical skills of students and the surrounding community. The initiative aligned with SDG 4: Quality of Education on how communities can be empowered through economic education, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through the collaboration among WUACD University members, namely Universitas Airlangga, Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e, and Federation University in conducting global partnership for sustainable development.

First Session: Strengthening Economic Knowledge and Sustainability

The first session brought together 50 students from the Faculty of Economics and 50 community members from the areas surrounding the Instituto Superior Cristal (ISC). The workshop covered various topics to empower participants with knowledge and skills that could directly impact their personal and community development.

Membrane Technology for Water Treatment, presented by Yanuardi Raharjo, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., introduced innovative solutions for water purification, emphasizing the importance of clean water access for health and economic well-being. This aligned with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation and demonstrated the intersection between technological innovation and sustainable development that may benefit the community to enhance…

Financial Literacy and Management for SMEs, led by Ahmad Fadlur Rahman Bayuny S.E.I., M.Sc.IBF., Ph.D, provided essential knowledge on managing finances and growing small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This is critical in boosting local economies and supporting small businesses in Timor Leste’s local communities, directly contributing to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Reproduction Disorder in Ruminants, a lecture by Prof. Dr. Herry Agoes Hermadi, drh., M.Si., focused on the health of livestock, which plays a significant role in the agricultural economy of Timor Leste. The session highlighted sustainable livestock management and its role in ensuring food security, linking to SDG 2: Zero Hunger.

Low-Energy Electronics Socialization, presented by Lilik Jamilatul Awalin, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., emphasized the importance of energy efficiency in electronics, which is key for sustainable economic development. This session aligned with SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, promoting energy-efficient technologies in local industries.

Second Session: Educating the Next Generation of Economists

The second session focused on equipping students from the Faculty of Economics with more profound knowledge and skills to excel in the global economy. This session was also open to 50 community members from the ISC area, reinforcing the partnership between academic institutions and local communities in line with SDG 17.

Economics and Management, delivered by Universitas Airlangga’s expert, provided UNTL students with insights into effective management practices and economic principles that can be applied in both public and private sectors. The session aimed to prepare future leaders with the skills necessary for building a sustainable and competitive economy.

English Training for Business, presented by Dra. Nur Wulan, M.A., Ph.D., provided practical language skills for students and community members, focusing on business terminology and communication strategies. Communicating in English is crucial for engaging in international trade and partnerships, further supporting SDG 4: Quality Education.

Financial Literacy and Management for SMEs, a continuation of the earlier session by Ahmad Fadlur Rahman Bayuny S.E.I., M.Sc.IBF., Ph.D, provided more detailed strategies for managing small businesses’ finances, marketing, and growth. This was especially valuable for participants applying these skills within their local context to enhance business operations and sustainability.

The WUACD international community development, with one of the focuses on economic education in Timor Leste, played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic knowledge and community needs. By focusing on practical skills and sustainable development, the sessions empowered both students and community members with the tools to contribute to the local economy and improve their livelihoods. Through international collaboration and knowledge sharing, the initiative embodied the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in achieving sustainable development across different sectors.