On the evening of 24th September, 2024, MCM College Master of University of Macau, Professor Kwok-cheung, Cheung welcomed distinguished guests, freshmen and upper-classmen to a traditional Commencement High Table ‘Gaudie’. Gaudium, a term derived from Latin which is a sign of enjoyment or merry-making, typically redolent of celebratory student life in ancient universities Oxford and Cambridge, St Andrews and Aberdeen, as well as the Universities of Durham and Reading.

Distinguished keynote speakers included Prof. Wei Ge, Vice Rector (Research), Prof. Wei Pan, MCMC Senior Fellow, Chair Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, and Prof. Handong Sun, MCMC Senior Fellow, Distinguished Professor, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering. Their thought-provoking and inspiring speeches covered knowledge integration, and the significance of collaborating with others to work as a team in areas of the science and social science, as well as in today’s fast-changing world.

As Prof. Cheung addressed faculty and students, he also warmly welcomed four highly esteemed guests to the event: Prof. Lianghuo Fan, Chair Professor, Dean, Faculty of Education; Prof. Jun Yu, Chair Professor, Dean, Faculty of Business Administration; Prof. Zikang Tang, Chair Professor, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering; and Prof. Xingzhong Yu, Chair Professor, Faculty of Law.

Special performances at High Table included Chinese Modern Dance by Lina Huang and Olivia Huang. This was followed by a piano recital by Prof. Zidong Zhou, and Resident Fellow, Dr. Peggy Lau. Shortly after the main course was served, MCMC students presented an Excerpt from the “Carmen Fantasy”, Georges Bizet, featuring Luke Linhan Lyu (Saxophone), Belly BaoQinyi Wang (Piano) and featuring Resident Tutor, Stephanie Rachell Andaluz Almandoz Ramos (Vocals) and Kristina Jingxian Li (Spanish dance).

The event was truly, a memorable ‘Gaudie’, with much enjoyment and merry-making.

“The sharing from other professors during High Table not only broadened my understanding of science, but also highlighted diverse perspectives. I felt inspired and motivated, with a renewed appreciation for collective intelligence we achieved when we united our efforts towards a common goal.” Lulu Liu (College Affiliate – FSS)                                                                                

“Participating in the high-table event alongside students and professors filled me with immense pride as we collectively showcased our skills to the community. Engaging professors and fellow students in meaningful discussions about knowledge, careers, hobbies, and personal interests was achieved, creating a vibrant atmosphere brimming with intellectual curiosity and mutual respect.” – Stephanie Ramos (Resident Tutor)

“At the high table event, we listened to guests’ speeches while dressed in formal attire, reflecting the formality and solemnity of the event. In the process of enjoying western cuisine, we not only learned dining etiquette, but also enhanced our skills and ability to communicate with others. It also provided me with a platform to showcase my talents and improve myself.” – Kristina Li (Freshman)

Opening speech by College Master Prof. Kwok Cheung CHEUNG

Keynote speaker, Prof. Wei Ge, Vice Rector (Research)

Keynote speaker, Prof. Wei Pan, Chair Professor, and MCMC Senior Fellow, Faculty of Social Sciences

Keynote speaker, Prof. Handong Sun, Distinguished Professor, MCMC Senior Fellow, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering

Guests of honor at High Table

Chinese Modern Dance Performance

Piano Recital Performance

“Carmen Fantasy” Performance – Vocals

“Carmen Fantasy” Performance – Spanish Dance