Macau’s flagship university is growing rapidly to meet demand
[Sponsored Article] With 69 per cent of the University of Macau’s income subsidised by the Macau SAR Government, relations remain close between the two, with a clear long-term commitment. In 2012, Chief Executive of Macau and chancellor of University of Macau, Dr Fernando Chui Sai-on, stated that the government would support University of Macau as part of its increased investment in higher education in the region.
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With 69 per cent of the University of Macau’s income subsidised by the Macau SAR Government, relations remain close between the two, with a clear long-term commitment. In 2012, Chief Executive of Macau and chancellor of University of Macau, Dr Fernando Chui Sai-on, stated that the government would support University of Macau as part of its increased investment in higher education in the region.
Considerations include international standards, developing teaching and research systems and nurturing graduates within the community to increase the quality of the local workforce and aid the enclave’s long-term development.
The government has also pledged to implement and improve relevant policies that enable local residents to receive higher education and pursue lifelong learning. As a comprehensive university, Chui said that University of Macau is an equal contributor in realising such goals.
In a historic speech at the new campus inauguration ceremony held on November 2013, then Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Cheong U, said University of Macau was central to the government’s plans to boost Macau’s economy and competitiveness by enhancing education. “It is important that we institute a long-term and effective mechanism,” he said. “We need to refine the education system structurally and gradually, especially that of higher education. As an important university, the University of Macau plays a pivotal role in the advancement of local higher education. Therefore, the government will, as always, support the University of Macau – which is now progressing along the right track – to scale new heights.”
Embracing the Open House, which allows members of the public to access the University’s educational resources, the new campus (located near Hengqi in mainland China) is home to more than 15 academic complexes and more than 60 independent buildings including residential colleges and amenity facilities.
The University’s Wu Yee Sun Library can hold over a million books and academic journals and about seven faculties are within walking distance of one another, accessible by covered walk ways.
The Central Teaching Building has capacity to host classes for up to 3,000 students at a time. Other facilities are great for mixing community learners with students at the university.
A University Gallery is available to students and visitors, showcasing the history of the University. But the main recreational gathering spot on campus is the purpose-built mall with dining and shopping outlets where students of all nationalities can mix, socialise and share ideas – something that is common in Western universities – bringing together the perfect community of local and international students.