The University of Macau (UM) held the first lecture of its University Lecture Series today (7 October). The lecture, titled ‘The Coming of the Age of Big Data’, was given by Prof Lionel Ni, a renowned computer scientist and vice rector for academic affairs at UM.

Prof Ni shared the research results of his team, and discussed the enormous potential and power of big data. He noted that big data not only has changed people’s way of thinking, but has revolutionalised the role of technology. The value of big data lies in its power to assist with the analysis of business models, thereby providing a basis for decision-making, and although big data cannot replace humans in the decision-making process, it is imperative that people in the 21st century embrace the advent of the age of big data.

The lecture attracted a full-house audience, including teachers and students from local universities and secondary schools as well as local residents.

The University Lecture Series will be held on a regular basis. Speakers will include chair professors and distinguished professors at UM, world-renowned scholars from around the world, and leaders in various industries. UM hopes that the University Lecture Series will help the public know more about the latest developments and most advanced ideas in various fields and promote lifelong learning in Macao.