Prof. Manuel Vong is an accomplished academic, administrator, and leader with over 46 years of experience across public and private sectors. Holding a PhD in Sustainable Tourism Development from the Universidade do Algarve, Portugal, a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Universitas Gajah Mada, Indonesia, and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the Institute Ilmu Pemerintahan, Jakarta, his expertise spans management, politics, leadership, and academia. Fluent in Tetum, Portuguese, English, and Indonesian, he has excelled in strategic planning, diplomacy, and negotiation while working closely with government bodies, religious leaders, civil society, and academic institutions.

Prof. Vong has held several high-profile positions, including Minister of Tourism of Timor-Leste (2017–2018), Rector of Dili Institute of Technology (2015–2017), and General Coordinator for Timor-Leste at Expo Dubai 2020. He has been deeply involved in academia, serving as a professor in PhD and MBA programs at Dili Institute of Technology and contributing extensively to research in tourism, governance, and sustainable development. His leadership extends to founding the Incanto International Institute and serving as its Deputy CEO, reinforcing his commitment to education, innovation, and institutional development.

As a passionate advocate for vocational education and training, Prof. Vong is dedicated to developing the capabilities of young Timorese through the Incanto International Institute. His mission is to equip students with practical skills and industry-relevant training, bridging the skills gap and fostering sustainable employment opportunities in Timor-Leste. By collaborating with government agencies, private enterprises, and international institutions, he continues to make significant contributions to the country’s workforce development and economic growth.