UM holds Open Day in Macao and Hengqin to showcase its features and achievements

The University of Macau (UM) held its Open Day today (12 January) to allow the public to learn about its latest developments and experience its vibrant campus culture. More than 200 activities took place throughout the day, showcasing UM’s educational philosophy, learning environment, academic offerings, and developments in recent years. Parents agree that UM has a comprehensive talent cultivation system that provides an excellent teaching and research environment for students, adding that they will encourage their children to pursue further studies in Macao.

This year’s UM Open Day was held in a hybrid format. Both the UM campus and the Zhuhai UM Science & Technology Research Institute were open to the public, and the live stream of the event reached a total of over 250,000 views across UM’s various social media platforms. Speaking at the opening ceremony, UM Rector Yonghua Song said that UM has made significant developments and achievements since its relocation in 2014. The university also seized a new opportunity last year by becoming the first university in Macao to extend its teaching and research activities to the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. In December last year, the university held a land handover and groundbreaking ceremony for its campus in the Cooperation Zone, marking the official commencement of the campus construction. As a university rooted in Macao, UM will continue to take part in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, integrate with the nation, and go global. The university is committed to producing creative and socially responsible graduates with a global mindset and international competitiveness. Meanwhile, UM will continue to enhance its strategic research layout, build high-level scientific research and innovation platforms, promote the transformation of scientific and technological achievements, and support Macao’s economic diversification. Song also expressed hope that UM will experience another round of rapid development in the next decade.

Mrs Geng from Shandong Province attended the UM Open Day with her daughter. She appreciates UM’s beautiful and open campus, as well as the university’s high-quality learning and research environment. She hopes that her daughter will have the opportunity to attend UM’s summer programme, which can help her daughter find her development direction and lay a solid foundation for further studies. A pair of twins, who are currently form six students at Colégio de Santa Rosa de Lima, also visited UM with their parents. Their parents agree that the UM Open Day helped them gain a better understanding of the university’s admission information and academic programmes. They also learned more about UM’s talent cultivation system and academic atmosphere, and will support their daughters to study at UM. Ho, a student who wants to study business administration, learned that UM’s newly launched programme in business analytics aligns with his interests and meets the needs of social development. He believes that studying at UM will have broad development prospects.

Throughout the UM Open Day, various faculties, research institutes, laboratories, and residential colleges hosted over 200 activities, including admission talks, academic and science talks, laboratory activities, workshops, interactive booth games, performances, and exhibitions. These activities integrated fun science knowledge and cultural experiences, allowing participants to take part in metaverse racing games and Chinese medicine aromatherapy, explore the world under the microscope and the mysteries of cells, take lie detection tests, learn about telepathy, interact with the quadruped bionic robot, and make egg waffles and coffee ground scrubs. Through these activities, visitors experienced UM’s learning atmosphere and explored their interests and potential. UM’s ten residential colleges also offered guided tours, where participants gained insights into the colleges’ educational philosophy through games and communal dining experiences. In addition, the Zhuhai UM Science & Technology Research Institute in Hengqin held science lectures, admission talks, and alumni sharing sessions to showcase UM’s teaching and research achievements in Hengqin.

Furthermore, Zhong Junwen, assistant professor in the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics of the Faculty of Science and Technology at UM, gave a presentation titled ‘Wearable haptic feedback devices for virtual reality—Thousands of miles away, we can touch’ at the opening ceremony. He shared UM’s latest research achievements in flexible smart materials, inspiring students to make the world a better place through science.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/60153/

Research paper by State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine published in prestigious journal

The paper titled ‘Mechanism-oriented quality research system for traditional Chinese medicine’, authored by the research team from the State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine (SKL-QRCM) of the University of Macau (UM), has been published in SCIENTIA SINICA Vitae, a prestigious journal overseen by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and co-sponsored by the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

The quality of Chinese medicine has always been a focus of research and industry attention. However, due to the unclear mechanisms of action, diverse sources and varieties, and complex composition of Chinese medicine, the industry has encountered difficulties in establishing a system to show the relationship between the quality of Chinese medicine and the efficacy and safety of clinical applications, which has hindered the high-quality development of the Chinese medicine industry.

The research teams conducted an in-depth analysis of the current state of quality research of Chinese medicine and proposed a mechanism-oriented approach to quality research of Chinese medicine, which elucidates the underlying logic of various segments of the Chinese medicine industry and highlights the clinical value of Chinese medicine. They also introduced new biomarkers, technologies, and methods for more precise quality control of Chinese medicine, thereby promoting the modernisation, internationalisation, and high-quality development of the Chinese medicine industry. The paper is a theoretical summary of more than a decade of scientific practice by researchers from UM and the Macau University of Science and Technology, and will drive innovation in both models and concepts of quality research of Chinese medicine.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/campus-news/detail/60137/

UM Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences holds 1st Symposium on Computational Pharmaceutics

The Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS) of the University of Macau (UM) held the ‘1st Symposium on Computational Pharmaceutics—AI and Modeling in Pharma 4.0’ from 14 to 16 December 2024. The symposium brought together experts from world-renowned universities, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Copenhagen, and Peking University, to discuss the latest advancements and challenges in computational pharmaceutics.

In his opening remarks, UM Vice Rector Ge Wei highlighted the immense potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the pharmaceutical sector, and UM’s commitment to promoting technological innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The symposium featured speakers from prestigious institutions worldwide, including Uppsala University in Sweden, the University of Surrey in the UK, the University of Helsinki in Finland, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of the Pacific in the US, the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, the University of Toronto in Canada, Peking University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Central South University, Jinan University, Guangdong University of Technology, Macao Polytechnic University, and UM. They shared their research and practices in the field of computational pharmaceutics, and discussed in depth the applications of computational pharmaceutics in drug discovery and development, the applications of AI in drug delivery, and the applications of multi-scale modelling, high-performance computing, and robotics in drug research and development. Experts from the pharmaceutical industry also actively engaged in the discussions, furthering the development of computational pharmaceutics.

The symposium provided an important platform for academia, industry, and government sectors to facilitate communication and cooperation. The successful hosting of the event highlights Macao’s growing international influence at the intersection of AI and pharmaceuticals, and injects new vitality into Macao’s technological innovation and sustainable development. UM will continue to support and promote the development of AI in the pharmaceutical sector.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/campus-news/detail/60078/

UM holds Macau International Conference on Business Intelligence and Analytics

The Faculty of Business Administration (FBA) of the University of Macau (UM) held the 2024 Macau International Conference on Business Intelligence and Analytics. The event brought together eminent scholars and researchers to discuss the latest developments in business intelligence and data analytics, fostering intellectual exchange and innovative collaboration.

In his opening remarks, Yonghua Song, rector of UM, highlighted the transformative role of business intelligence and data analytics, and noted that the conference would provide an important platform for global academic exchange and innovation.

The conference featured a rich programme of keynote speeches, invited sessions, and discussion sessions. Key topics included artificial intelligence, big data analytics, decision-making systems, and emerging technologies. The event attracted over 200 faculty members, students, and researchers.

The conference featured two keynote speakers. Fan Jianqing, Frederick L. Moore ’18 Professor of Finance, professor of statistics and machine learning, and professor of operations research and financial engineering at Princeton University, spoke on ‘Unearthing Financial Statement Fraud: Insights from News Coverage Analysis’. Gary Zhang, founder and CEO of Micro Connect and CEO of Micro Connect Macao Financial Assets Exchange (MCEX), shared insights on ‘RBF vs Equity/Debt’.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, business intelligence and analytics have emerged as indispensable tools for decision-making, providing valuable insights that help businesses gain a competitive edge. With a focus on cutting-edge technologies, innovative methodologies, and their real-world applications, the conference fostered collaboration and drove advancements in the field.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/60035/

Collection of award-winning essays on patriotism from UM Cheng Yu Tung College published

The book Voices of Elegance—A Collection of Award-Winning Essays on Patriotism from Cheng Yu Tong College of the University of Macau, edited by Interim Master Wong Seng Fat and Associate Master Gong Yingxue of Cheng Yu Tong College (CYTC) of the University of Macau (UM), has been published by Culture Hall. This publication marks a significant milestone in CYTC’s efforts in national education.

The book’s foreword was written by Mok Kai Ming, vice rector of UM. The book is divided into seven sections and features 23 articles, 20 of which are award-winning essays by 12 CYTC students who participated in various writing competitions. The competitions covered topics such as cultural security, cybersecurity, Chinese civilisation, reviews of the film ‘Macao: Back to Common Roots Narrative Film’, and reviews of Macao literary works. The collection also includes three essays on students’ writing experiences.

Prof Wong, who is also the editor of the book, said that UM’s residential college education aims to cultivate seven competencies among students: responsible citizenship, global competitiveness, knowledge integration, teamwork and collaboration, service and leadership, cultural engagement, and healthy lifestyle. Students have improved their responsible citizenship, cultural engagement, and knowledge integration through participation in writing competitions.

The book launch event was held at CYTC. The event was attended by Vice Rector Mok; Pang Chap Chong, dean of students of UM; and college representatives. During the event, Prof Wong introduced the background of the book and its significance for national education. Prof Gong, and student writers Cheang Nga U and Dai Ziyi, then shared their creative intentions and writing experiences. They mentioned that these works not only reflect the writers’ personal expressions, but also convey their deep understanding of the concept of patriotism. Their sharing and the book received positive feedback from those who attended the event.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/59912/

Li Fei praises UM’s efforts in national education

The University of Macau (UM) attaches great importance to the Constitution, the Basic Law, and National Security education, and continuously integrates resources to effectively carry out related work. On the National Constitution Day, the Macao Basic Law Promotion Association held a talk on upholding the constitutional order of the SAR established by the Constitution and the Basic Law. The speaker was Li Fei, chairman of the Constitution and Law Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress and former director of the Macao Basic Law Committee of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

During the event, Li praised UM for its efforts in promoting the Constitution and the Basic Law education, including the establishment of the Centre for Constitutional Law and Basic Law Studies, the implementation of a systematic curriculum for the Constitution and the Basic Law education, assisting the Macao SAR Government in training local teachers of moral and civic education on the two laws, and organising the UM Constitution and Basic Law Student Ambassador Training Programme.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/59911/

UM students win first prize in global AI competition

A team of students from the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) of the University of Macau (UM) participated in the 2024 Tencent AI Arena Global Open Competition and won the first prize in the international final of the Intelligent Agent Gaming Algorithm Track. The team received a prize of RMB 100,000. The competition attracted over 2,000 teams from nearly 390 universities across 18 countries and regions, including the UK, Japan, Germany, the US, and Singapore.

In recent years, FST has achieved remarkable results in both AI research and education. In addition to attaching importance on teaching basic theories, the faculty has enhanced the curriculum to strengthen students’ practical skills. Tencent has supported these efforts by providing free computational resources and access to its reinforcement learning training platform, helping students improve their skills through hands-on experience. In addition, FST launched a master’s programme in artificial intelligence last year and plans to further develop AI disciplines at UM’s campus in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. The award not only recognises UM’s efforts in AI education and research, but also highlights FST’s efforts in cultivating high-tech talent with international competitiveness. Looking forward, the faculty will continue to enhance research and teaching in AI to cultivate more innovative and skilled professionals for society.

The competition featured five tracks: Intelligent Agent Gaming Algorithm Track, AI Chip Operator Development Track, Intelligent Traffic Signal Scheduling Track, AIPC High Performance Gaming Track, and Mobile AI Model Lightweight Deployment Track. These tracks provided a platform for students from various research fields to showcase their skills and explore cutting-edge technologies. Under the guidance of Wang Ye, assistant professor in the Department of Computer and Information Science of FST, the UM team—formed by Leong Ka Hou, Si Jianing, Li Haolong, Leandro Schlosser Acosta, and Huang Zhongyu—won the competition, marking a significant breakthrough for UM students in AI competitions.

The competition was jointly organised by the Sichuan Provincial Department of Education, Chongqing Municipal Education Commission, Sichuan Provincial Department of Science and Technology, and Chongqing Science and Technology Bureau, and was co-hosted by Sichuan University, Talent Work Leading Group Office of the CPC Chengdu Municipal Committee, and Tencent. It was held on the Tencent AI Arena Open Research Platform. Themed ‘From Games to Reality’, the competition aimed to foster the cultivation of AI professionals in higher education institutions, deepen industry-academia collaboration, and promote the development of AI research and application.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/59901/

UM SKL-QRCM, Hubei Shizhen Laboratory co-organise seminar

The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine (SKL-QRCM) of the University of Macau (UM) and Hubei Shizhen Laboratory co-organised the Traditional Chinese Medicine Frontier Seminar. The seminar aimed to explore new directions in the advancement of Chinese medicine, promote the development and innovation of Chinese medicine, and provide an exchange platform for clinical research and basic research in Chinese medicine. It was well attended by Chinese medicine experts, researchers, faculty, and students.

The seminar featured five academic presentations, which were given by Chinese medicine expert Zhang Liutong, President Chen Gang, and Professor Xiang Nan from Hubei University of Chinese Medicine; Chen Xin, director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences and director of SKL-QRCM of UM; and Wang Shengpeng, assistant director of SKL-QRCM of UM. In addition, UM Rector Yonghua Song met with the delegation from Hubei Shizhen Laboratory and held in-depth discussions on cooperation in research and development of Chinese medicine, talent cultivation, transformation of research results, and collaborative innovation. Both parties expressed their commitment to leveraging the science and technology talent, technology platforms, and natural resources of Macao and Hubei to promote academic exchanges in Chinese medicine, accelerate the integrated development of the Chinese medicine industry in the two places, and enhance the international influence of Chinese medicine.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/campus-news/detail/59898/

Diploma programme jointly organised by UM and Sands China concludes with success

The Centre for Continuing Education (CCE), the Business Research and Training Center and the Executive Education of the Faculty of Business Administration of the University of Macau (UM), in collaboration with Sands China Limited, organised the seventh edition (2023-2024) of the one-year diploma programme in business management. A graduation ceremony was held to present certificates to 24 participants who completed the programme.

The participants were from various departments at Sands China, including asset and facilities management, food and beverage, security, and concierge. The diploma programme was specifically designed to meet the needs of Sands China staff. Based on the experience of previous editions, the programme was adjusted throughout the study period to accommodate the learning progress and work schedules of the participants.

CCE has offered the diploma programme since the 2014/2015 academic year. To date, more than 200 Sands China staff have completed the programme.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/59897/

UM professor Xu Qingsong honoured as IEEE Fellow

Xu Qingsong, professor in the Department of Electromechanical Engineering of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), University of Macau (UM), has been elected a fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the design and control of robotic micro- and nano-positioning and manipulation systems. Prof Xu is the first scholar from Macao to receive this honour from the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society. His election not only reflects his significant contributions to scientific research but also highlights UM’s growing reputation in the international academic community.

IEEE, formed in 1963, is the world’s largest and most prestigious non-profit international society in the fields of electronics, electrical engineering, computer science, communications, and automation engineering. IEEE currently has over 460,000 members across more than 190 countries and regions, and IEEE Fellow is the highest grade of membership in IEEE. The selection process for IEEE Fellows is rigorous, with no more than 0.1% of the total voting membership being elevated to Fellow grade each year. This prestigious title is awarded to distinguished scholars who have made significant contributions to the advancement of science and technology and have had a profound impact on society.

Prof Xu is a professor in the Department of Electromechanical Engineering of FST at UM and is the founding director of the Smart and Micro/Nano Systems Laboratory (SMNSL) of FST. He obtained his PhD in electromechanical engineering from UM in 2008, joined UM as an assistant professor in 2010, and was promoted to associate professor and full professor in 2015 and 2019, respectively. In 2021, Prof Xu was elected a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), becoming the first scholar from Macao to receive this honour. Together with the IEEE Fellowship, he has become one of the few Chinese scholars to hold fellowships from both ASME and IEEE.

Prof Xu has published four monographs in English and over 400 papers in international journals and conferences. His research has earned him numerous awards, including several Macao Science and Technology Awards. Prof Xu has been listed among the top 2% of scientists in the world for six consecutive years, from 2019 to 2024. He currently serves as an associate editor for IEEE Transactions on Robotics and has held editorial positions for more than ten prestigious international journals, including IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics, IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, and IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters. Prof Xu’s achievements have enhanced UM’s reputation in the international academic community and given new impetus to robotics and automation research worldwide. His success will continue to inspire more students to pursue excellence, explore the unknown, and contribute to societal progress.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/presss-release/detail/59876/