UNFPA celebrated UN Day in collaboration with United Nations Country Team in Timor-Leste on the 24th of October, 2014, to highlight, celebrate and reflect on the work of the United Nations. The event, organized in collaboration with the departments of International Relations at the three main universities in Dili: UNTL, UNDili and UNPaz, along with a side exhibition, took place at Canossa School in Dili and was attended by dignitaries and 500 university students of the UNTL, UNDIL and UNPAZ.
Sharing her experiences, Ms. Yane Maia, Timorese UNFPA/UN Women Youth Delegate, said "We can take motivation from young activists like Malala Yousuf, the 2014 Noble Peace Laureate who stood up for the rights of young girls' education to define their own destiny." She added, "We [young Timorese] need access to knowledge to tackle HIV, human trafficking, early marriage, and Maternal Health and be first line protectors of ourselves and our families. We can do like men do!"
During the panel discussion on supporting inclusive and sustainable development in Timor-Lest, Dr. Domingas Bernardo,UNFPA Assistant Representative, briefed University Students on UNFPA activities in Timor-Leste. She noted that UNFPA is the lead UN agency tasked in delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every child birth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.
UNFPA displayed many publications that showcase its work at the side event exhibition. Over 500 copies of different publications, including books on Demographic and Health Survey, maps, education materials on contraceptives, HIV, motherhood and gender equality were distributed to the university students.
