The Dili summit placed science, innovation and knowledge at the centre of Timor-Leste’s development ambitions, drawing Nobel laureates, scientists and international experts.
Timor-Leste hosted the Science for Development Summit 2026 at the Dili Convention Centre on 24 and 25 August, positioning science and innovation as key tools for the country’s sustainable development. The event gathered Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, scientists, innovators, educators and researchers in what was described as the largest scientific gathering ever held in Southeast Asia.
An initiative of President Jose Ramos-Horta, the summit was held under the joint patronage of the President and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and was fully funded by the Government of Timor-Leste. President Ramos-Horta highlighted the country’s ambition to move from consuming knowledge to creating it, with science and local expertise supporting long-term national development.
Discussions on the first day examined science in development, science and economic transformation, food security and health & human development. International experts explored how scientific research, stronger institutions and global partnerships could support Timor-Leste in areas ranging from agriculture and health to economic capacity.
The summit was also part of a series of national events aimed at advancing sustainable development through education, diplomacy and international cooperation, while strengthening Timor-Leste’s international profile.
Source: TATOLI
