The University of Macau (UM) today (23 Aug) held a convocation on the new campus to welcome more than 2,000 undergraduates and postgraduates. This is the university’s first convocation held on the new campus
The convocation opened with a chorus by the UM Choir. In his speech UM Rector Wei Zhao noted that this year’s new students were the first to attend UM’s first convocation held on the new campus, the first to study and live on the new campus, and also the first to join UM after the eight residential colleges became operational. Rector Wei Zhao added that now that the eight residential colleges have become operational, UM will be able to better implement its “4-in-1” model of education. He encouraged the students to achieve “1, 2, and 3” during their time at UM, which is to be a good person, to find at least two mentors, and to make at least three good friends. He also expressed hope that the students cherish their time at UM.
Prof Lap-chee Tsui, former president and vice-chancellor of the University of Hong Kong, was invited to speak at the convocation. Prof Tsui noted that UM’s relocation to the new campus was an unprecedented undertaking, and in the process the university had to solve many problems; but to everyone’s satisfaction, the relocation was finally complete. Prof Tsui used this example to encourage students to develop the ability to solve problems independently. He also encouraged students to seize the precious opportunity to study diligently, and to develop independent thinking, so they can help to create a better world in the future.
After the convocation was over, the rector, the deans and academic staff from the various faculties held a tea gathering with the students. A new student commented that UM is different from universities in mainland China in that UM is more international, and she felt very excited to be one of the first students to attend the convocation on the new campus. Another student found Rector Wei Zhao’s speech very inspiring and said he would remember the five virtues listed in the University Motto—“Humanity, Integrity, Propriety, Wisdom and Sincerity”.
The new academic year will start on 25 August. To help new students adapt to the new environment, the residential colleges, faculties, and student organisations have organised a series of activities, including information seminars and guided campus tours, since mid-August. UM has also organised an information seminar for the students’ parents to help them know more about UM’s education philosophy and latest developments, so they can better support their children as they are trying to adapt to their new role as a university student.
