Summer Academic Exchange Program in Macau Successfully
Held by the School of Mathematics
To further enhance students' comprehensive quality, broaden their international perspectives, and comprehensively improve the quality of undergraduate talent cultivation, the School of Mathematics organized a three-day academic exchange visit to Macau from July 3 to July 5, 2024, for the 2021-Class students of the Strengthening Foundation Program. The delegation was led by Party Secretary Lei Wu, Dean Huanyao Wen, Deputy Dean Bing Li, Prof. Haiyang Jin, and Teacher Huizhong Tian. Through a series of activities including academic lectures, interactive exchanges, and on-site visits, the delegation visited two prestigious universities—the University of Macau and Macau University of Science and Technology—as well as the Macau Chinese Students' Association and the Macau Youth Development Service Center. The visit provided valuable insights into Macau's higher education system, student recruitment and training, and youth engagement in social services.
The program consisted of three main parts. On the morning of July 4, the delegation first visited Macau University of Science and Technology for in-depth academic discussions and exchanges with faculty and students. In the afternoon, the delegation proceeded to Macau University for further academic exchanges, shared experiences, and a campus tour. On the morning of July 5, the delegation visited the Macau Chinese Students' Association and the Macau Youth Development Service Center, participating in a variety of cultural exchange activities.
Part 1: Visit to Macau University of Science and Technology
On the morning of July 4, the delegation of 27 faculty members and students visited Macau University of Science and Technology, where they were warmly received by Prof. Chao Ma, Coordinator of the General Education Mathematics Program, and Associate Prof. Xuanxuan Xiao, Deputy Director of the Macau Mathematical Sciences Research Center.
Secretary Lei Wu and Dean Huanyao Wen expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and introduced the School of Mathematics at South China University of Technology, sharing the school's experience in teaching and research. Prof. Chao Ma provided an overview of the history and development of Macau University of Science and Technology and its School of Engineering, emphasizing the university's active engagement in international cooperation and its achievements. Associate Prof. Xuanxuan Xiao detailed the curriculum and postgraduate training mechanisms of the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering. Following this, student representatives from both sides delivered speeches and engaged in good, in-depth interactive exchanges.
After the meeting, Prof. Chao Ma guided the delegation on a visit to the National Key Laboratory for Lunar and Planetary Science (Macau Space Exploration and Science Center), where the advanced equipment and rich research outcomes left a deep impression on the participants.
Part 2: Visit to the University of Macau
In the afternoon, the delegation visited the University of Macau. Associate Professor Wen Yang introduced the university and its Faculty of Science and Technology, providing detailed insights into the distribution of faculty in the Department of Mathematics, curriculum design, scholarship policies, and postgraduate recruitment. He also extended a warm welcome to students from South China University of Technology for further studies at the University of Macau.
During the exchange session, both sides engaged in in-depth discussions. The students from our school actively participated, raising questions that ranged from academic research to career development, fully demonstrating our students' planning for the future and their desire for knowledge. Associate Professor Yang provided patient and detailed answers to the students' questions.
After the meeting, Associate Professor Wen Yang guided the delegation on a campus tour, allowing them to experience the learning environment, educational models, and its vibrant academic and cultural atmosphere.
Part 3: Visit to the Macau Chinese Students' Association and Macau Youth Development Service Center
On the morning of the 5th, the delegation visited the Macau Chinese Students' Association and the Macau Youth Development Service Center, gaining a deeper understanding of the positive contributions these organizations have made to Macau society over the years.
During the visit, representatives from both organizations detailed their operational activities and social services. Guided by the principles of "loving the motherland, contributing to Macau, uniting the academic community, and engaging in society," they extensively serve and unite young students, playing a significant role in promoting the development of Macau's youth.
Summary
Through visits, research, and discussions, this exchange program allowed students to witness the achievements of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and gain a deeper understanding of the unique educational philosophies, university spirit, and campus culture nurtured by the integration of Chinese and Western cultures in Macau's higher education institutions. It also fostered greater interaction between young people from both sides.
Students unanimously expressed that the program was highly rewarding, providing an immersive experience of the academic atmosphere in Macau's higher education institutions and the region's historical culture and local customs. The program not only broadened their knowledge and perspectives but also deepened their understanding of the strategic importance of the Greater Bay Area in advancing Chinese modernization. Through such exchanges, participants gained insights into diverse educational approaches, international academic trends, and the passion and dedication of scholars to research. Moving forward, the School of Mathematics will further open its mindset and explore more pathways to provide students with high-quality long-term and short-term exchange programs. We look forward to every student shining on their academic journey and contributing to the advancement of mathematics.
