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Macau youth ‘happy to stay’, but will economic revamp create the right jobs?

Lack of career prospects frustrates many, while observers say push to diversify economy needs focus on training to nurture talent

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The Grand Lisboa casino in Macau. The government is looking to reduce its dependence on the gaming sector. Photo: Reuters
Emily Hungin Macau
Leo Zhou, a first-year student at the University of Macau pursuing a degree in electrical and computer engineering, is clear about where he sees himself working in the future: mainland China.
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“Macau has a strong focus on tourism and casinos, the demand and job offerings for engineers are very limited,” the 19-year-old said.

He believed only one large telecoms company could offer promising prospects for engineers, he said.

“If the government takes concrete steps to nurture other industries such as finance, just like Hong Kong, I would be happy to stay here for my career,” the student said.

Zhou was among the young Macau residents who spoke to the Post and expressed dissatisfaction with their limited career choices despite the city’s drive to diversify its economy and reduce its long-standing dependence on the gaming sector.

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Observers also warned an aggressive push to attract concerts and conferences, as part of the diversification efforts, would only encourage young people to take up high-earning freelance jobs instead of investing in upgrading their skill sets.

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