Sanata Dharma Students Learn the Meaning of Peace and Reconciliation Through the 2026 Service Learning Program in Timor-Leste
SDU – From August 2–16, 2026, six students from Sanata Dharma University (SDU) participated in the Service Learning Program (SLP) 2026 in Timor-Leste. The six student delegates were Helga Kinanti Arumsih (English Language Education), Mikhael Kunses Bani (English Language Education), Anugrah Frumensius Gansalangi (Informatics), Maria Grasia Plena Br Purba (Informatics), Andrea Calista Jasmine (English Letters), and Venivia (History). They were accompanied by Rooselina Ayu Setyaningrum, M.Pd., from the Indonesian Language and Literature Education Study Program as their faculty companion.
The theme for this SLP was “Peace and Reconciliation: A Perspective of Post-Conflict Country Experience.” This annual program, organized by the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Asia Pacific (AJCU-AP), brought together student delegates from nine Jesuit institutions across six countries. In addition to Sanata Dharma University, participants came from Japan (Sophia University), Thailand (Saengtham College, Xavier Campus), Hong Kong (Ricci Hall), the Philippines (Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Cagayan Xavier University, and Ateneo de Naga University), and Timor-Leste (Instituto São João de Brito), which was the host institution.
For over two weeks, the participants were given the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of peace and reconciliation from the perspective and context of Timor-Leste. Several prominent figures from Timor-Leste had the opportunity to join the program and share their insights, knowledge, and experiences related to the theme. These figures included Fr. Eric John J. Gerilla, SJ (Superior of the Society of Jesus in Timor-Leste), Sr. Guilhermina Marcal, FdCC (a humanitarian advocate in Timor-Leste), Xanana Gusmão (Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste), José Ramos-Horta (President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste), and others.
Through these figures, the participants were reminded that peace is not merely the absence of war; peace is something that must be pursued through continuous learning, dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect. Peace is a precious treasure that needs to be protected and nurtured every day through human relationships. “When our hearts are at peace, we can also share that sense of peace with others,” added Sr. Guilhermina Marcal, FdCC.
However, the lessons on peace and reconciliation did not stop with the perspectives of the leaders. The participants also had the opportunity to visit historical sites that spoke far more powerfully than words ever could. Andrea wrote, “I realized that choosing peace and reconciliation is not easy. It requires openness, courage, and a willingness to move forward despite painful memories.”
The lessons on peace and reconciliation became even more profound when the participants had the opportunity to take part in a three-day immersion experience with host families who were veterans and survivors who had lived through past conflicts. The values of peace and reconciliation were also brought to life through cultural performances. Each delegation from participating countries was given the opportunity to present a cultural performance. The Indonesian delegation performed a medley of traditional dances from across the Indonesian archipelago, portraying the efforts to promote and preserve peace. In her reflection, Maria wrote, “Through the various activities, including the cultural performances, I learned to step outside my comfort zone and become more confident.”
The series of activities throughout the SLP reminded the participants that everything is interconnected. Peace and reconciliation must always be fostered through an awareness of the interconnectedness between oneself, others, and the natural environment. In his reflection, Mikhael wrote, “The activities and visits I participated in and took part in helped me become a humble, dependable, responsible, and sincere person.”
The two-week program eventually came to an end. However, the experiences and commitment to fostering bonds of fellowship did not end in Timor-Leste. One of the delegates, Kinanti, said, “I am very happy to have met and built friendships with SLP participants from other countries. They even came to see me as part of their family.” Anugerah also shared his thoughts. For him, “This SLP experience taught me not to cause suffering to others.”
For the Sanata Dharma students, the 2026 SLP experience in Timor-Leste was a valuable opportunity to learn how to foster fellowship and peace in everyday life. Through each visit, encounter, sharing session, and reflection, they learned that peace must be built through a willingness to listen, respect others, act justly, and embrace others as brothers and sisters.
SLP Delegates 2026