University of Macau’s Moon Chun Memorial College staff and students participated in the “2024 Smart Society Public Welfare Innovation Training Camp” organized by Guanghua College at East China Normal University from May 20 to 25, 2024. During this period, participating students demonstrated deep engagement with the historical and cultural heritage of the city of Shanghai, coupled with direct experiences regarding the creative manifestations of public welfare innovation within the context of a smart societal framework.

The cohort visited the campus of East China Normal University, participated in the “Shanghai-Macau Inter-university College Education Forum”, conducted site inspections of artificial intelligence enterprises, and explored notable cultural landmarks such as the Guangfulin archaeological site, Liyao Village, the China Network Experience Center, and the Wujing Guangnan Star Garden. Ultimately, they completed four collaborative public welfare projects in conjunction with ECNU students.

Student representatives conveyed that the excursion not only expanded their contextual understanding of Shanghai, but also provided novel insights into the domain of public welfare innovation within a smart societal paradigm. This 6-day study abroad experience enabled the group to acquire substantive knowledge and skills, as well as forge indelible memories and cherished interpersonal connections. Participants unanimously regarded this opportunity as a valuable asset that will inspire their continued pursuit of public welfare innovation within the smart society construct.

One of the participants, Zhang Lingxiao, a liberal arts student, shared: “This training camp has broadened my social horizons, allowing me to understand how smart technology is applied across different aspects of social life, and learn to use AI to solve problems in diverse scenarios. As manual labor is increasingly replaced by AI, we need to keep up with the times and master basic AI skills. But we must also constantly reflect on the value of humanity, guided by broad humanistic concern and the spirit of patriotism and love for the country, so that AI can better serve people’s aspirations for a better life.”

Text: Luo Huangyin

Activity photos:

Opening Ceremony

Visit Artificial Intelligence enterprises

Cultural and Community Engagement

Closing