IFT and the Consulate General of France in Hong and Macao signed the “Internship Programme” agreement on 22 October. Vice President of IFT, Ms. Florence Ian and the Consul General, Mr. Marc Fonbaustier presided over the ceremony.

Tourism is a global industry. To withstand the development of Macao Tourism industry, foreign language ability is becoming more and more important. Following the signing of the agreement, a Master student in French will have a 9-month internship at IFT in the academic year 2009/10, to teach French to IFT students and to take part in other language study activities, such as to promote the language or the culture of France. This has given the students more opportunities to build up their language skills.

The programme design of IFT emphasises a lot on a balance between theory and practice. In addition to theory classes, the 6-month internship programme and exchange programme allow students to put what they have learnt into practice. To enrich their university life, IFT has organised a series of extracurricular activities in the new semester, which include choir, English debate, dragon boat paddling, French and business etiquette class, that is specially tailored for final year students. The Institute believes that with the introduction of the extracurricular activities, students can not only develop their talents and creativities, but as a whole-person and increase their sense of belongingness to the Institute. Students are also enthusiastic about these activities, especially for the French classes. Over 200 applications were received. The Institute will offer 6 classes at elementary level in the first semester to build up a good foundation.

It is hoped that by launching these extracurricular activities, students’ study experience can be improved and also lead to a comprehensive development. The Institute looks forward to the future cooperation opportunities with the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macao.