To celebrate the 75^th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 25^th anniversary of the anniversary of the Macao SAR, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau organized a music video (MV) shoot of the national anthem, “March of the Volunteers”, at the World Heritage site, Mount Fortress. Most participants were the college’s “Two Laws” ambassadors and members of “Student Group for Nurturing the Spirit of Loving our Country and Macao”. In this special “Double Celebrations”, students used sign language to perform the national anthem with a distinct rhythm, high melody, and majestic force, conveying the national spirit of protecting the homeland, defending the country, moving forward courageously and fearlessly.

On 30^th November 2024, the MV production team arrived at the venue at 8 a.m. for the shoot. The students had been practicing diligently, and with clear skies and solemn national anthem, they gesticulated and loudly sang the national anthem. The music video was directed by Resident Fellow, Alice Hong, filmed by student Mathew Ieong and edited by student Iek Pek Iok. Sign language instruction was provided by Rebecca Lao, a sign language interpreter from the Macau Deaf Association. Here, Moon Chun Memorial College presents the sign language song “March of the Volunteers,” wishing Macao prosperity, success and peace under the support and care of the motherland!

“March of the Volunteers” MV: https://vod.um.edu.mo/rc_mcmc/anthem.mp4

Sign language instructor demonstrating the “Great Wall” sign language word

Sign language instructor providing one-on-one guidance to the student

Students learning sign language together regardless of each other’s ethnic differences

Students listening to the national anthem and practicing sign language at the same time

The MV production team arriving at shooting venue at 8 a.m.

The production crew is in the process of shooting

Students “signing” “The March of Volunteers” in sign language at the fortress

Group photo of MV production team

On 4^th December 2024, the “Along with Alzheimer’s” Elderly Cognitive Assessment Service-Learning Project Award Ceremony was held at Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, to recognize the research assistants who provided cognitive assessments for the elderly from September to November 2024. This service-learning project was a collaboration between Moon Chun Memorial College and the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Macau, in partnership with the Complexo de Serviços de Apoio ao Cidadão Senior “Pou Tai” – Lar De Idosos Pou Tai and Macau Senior Vounteer Service Association. The aim was to cultivate professional psychological research assistants by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for cognitive assessment of the elderly through professional training, and conduct field research at elderly service centers in Macao to collect cognitive health data of the elderly.

This research-based service-learning project successfully trained ten Cantonese-speaking research assistants who performed excellently in the 13-hour training workshops, passed the assessments, and acquired the ability to conduct field research. Throughout the implementation of the project, Prof. Liu Lulu (College Affiliate) and Mr. Henry Lao (Clinical Superviser) provided weekly online supervision, ensuring the research assistants applied the knowledge and skills learned in training effectively. Their support enabled the research assistants to accurately record and organize assessment data, establishing a comprehensive cognitive health database for 64 elderly individuals, which will support future research efforts.

The award ceremony recognized the dedication and hard work of these research assistants, highlighting their contributions to the field of elderly cognitive health. This service-learning project not only provided valuable data for the elderly cognitive assessment research in Macao, but also fostered the development of skilled professionals in psychological research.

“As a psychology student, I have accumulated experience in field research and data collection, gained more understanding of future research directions, and developed an interest in Alzheimer’s disease research. Through interactions with the elderly, I have changed my previous prejudices and can now communicate with them more naturally and patiently, mastering many communication skills.” ─ Siliva Zhang

“This service-learning project experience has not only given me a deeper understanding of Alzheimer’s disease but also made me realize the stories behind each elderly person and the loneliness they endure. This activity has truly made me feel that every effort will be rewarded, and every interaction is a precious connection.” ─ Jacky Yang

“Over the past three months, this service-learning project has benefited me greatly. I have not only learned how to identify the potential for Alzheimer’s disease in the elderly through some daily behaviors, allowing for early treatment to prevent the condition from worsening, but I have also gained a deeper understanding and respect for the lives of the elderly.” ─ Marrisa Fong

“For me, service-learning is not just an activity; it is a responsibility and a mission. In the future, I hope to continue paying attention to the lives of the elderly and help those in society who need assistance. Everyone can start with small actions, embracing empathy and care, and use their modest efforts to change the world around them.” ─ Joanna Zhu

Group photo of the research team at the launch ceremony of the service-learning project

Participating in a series of professional training workshops

Simulating Elderly Cognitive Assessment

Providing elderly cognitive assessment services

Iris Dai, Resident Tutor hosting the Service-Learning Project Award Ceremony

Alice Hong, Resident Fellow giving a welcome speech

Prof. Liu Lulu sharing the effectiveness of the service-learning project

Silvia Zhang, Research Assistant sharing what she learned and gained in supervision

Prof. Liu Lulu awarding certificates to outstanding research assistants

(Silvia Zhang, Jacky Yang, Marrisa Fong and Joanna Zhu)

Group photo of the research team at the award ceremony of the service-learning project

On 20^th November 2024, four “Two Laws” trainees from Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau conducted a trial lesson after participating in a training course regarding the Constitution of China and the Basic Law of Macao SAR. The course was jointly organised by UM’s Centre for Constitutional Law and Basic Law Studies, ten residential colleges of the university, and local association Divulgação da Associação de Lei Básica de Macau (ADLBM). 

Oscar Wang outlined the key points and contents of Constitutional Law and Basic Law. Rachel Zhan introduced the development and current situation of China’s national security. Ada Wu shared the new governance model of “One Country, Two Systems” in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Coby Chen shared the unitary state structure and the people’s congress political system under the republican system. Finally, Dr. Henry Ho, lecturer of Faculty of Law conducted on-site performance evaluations for the four trainees, and gave feedback on the content of the talk.

Oscar Wang explaining the characteristics of “Two Laws”

Rachel Zhan explaining the development process of national security

Ada Wu sharing the new connotation under “One Country, Two Systems”

Coby Chen explaining the function of the State Council

Q & A Session

Dr. Ho giving feedback on the content of the talk

On 30^th November 2024, students from Mandarin House, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau visited the Macao Museum of Art to view a special exhibition from the Palace Museum. The exhibition features over 130 treasured items.  The exhibition is divided into four sections: “Born to Be an Emperor”, “Marriage and Family”, “The Flourishing Era of Civilian Rule” and “Efficient Governance and Harmonious Nation”.

The exhibition comprehensively showcases Emperor Qianlong’s image as a filial son and a loving husband, as well as his ideals in governing the country and securing the borders. Through these exhibits, visitors can gain a deep understanding of Emperor Qianlong’s wisdom in governance and cultural elegance, revealing the rich historical and cultural significance carried by the Palace of Double Brilliance. This visit not only enhanced the students’ understanding of traditional Chinese culture but also sparked their strong interest in history and art.

“Today, I had the privilege of visiting the Macao Museum of Art, and this experience left a deep impression on me. In the exhibition halls, I admired a variety of exhibits that not only showcased the charm of art but also revealed the history of the Qing Dynasty. This visit gave me a deeper understanding of human civilization and development.”─  Javier Zhang

“Today, I had the rare opportunity to see many artworks from the Palace Museum that have never been displayed to the public. Through the guide’s explanations, I gained a deeper understanding of the historical stories behind the exhibits. This event not only included a museum visit, where I learned a lot of new things, but also a relaxing and enjoyable meal, which made me very happy.” ─  Daisy Deng

Text: Jeffrey Jiang (Mandarin House Resident)

Christmas is just around the corner! On 30 November, 2024, University of Macau Moon Chun Memorial College Dom Pedro V House hosted a Christmas craft workshop designed to bring students together in the spirit of the holiday season. Participants created Twist Stick Christmas Trees, built Christmas-themed LEGO, and wrote personalized Christmas postcards. This event aims to immerse everyone in the joyful spirit of Christmas by fostering creativity, camaraderie, and celebration in a warm and welcoming environment. After the creative session, participants gathered to chat and lay out future plans. Most of the participants commented that the event provided a great opportunity to connect with friends through crafts under the festive atmosphere.

Text: Hoi Kai Cheng

On 1^st December 2024, the resident assistant from Guia House, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau led a group of students to visit to the Macao Grand Prix Museum.

To celebrate the 71^st Macau Grand Prix, students eagerly learned about the history and cultural significance of various racing events in Macao. The museum featured a dazzling array of high-tech displays and interactive experiences, with the Formula 3 racing simulation driving experience (on the first floor) as the favorite among students.

Through the introduction by the museum staff, students learned that the Macau Grand Prix began in 1954, conceived by a few car enthusiasts living in Macao. Initially, it was a race for amateur drivers but quickly developed. In 1967, the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix was officially added, making the combination of two-wheel and four-wheel races a unique feature of the Macau Grand Prix.

Text: Dominic Chang (Guia House Resident)

The University of Macau’s Moon Chun Memorial College Resident Tutor, Benson Lin, held the second tutorial on Microeconomics on 1st December, 2024; provided students with practical insights into key economic concepts. This tutorial offered a clear explanation of the knowledge framework and summarized important topics for microeconomics final exam, helping students understand the logic and connections between concepts and topics.

The session focused on both theory and real-world applications, enabling students to analyze economic models and charts, which enhanced their ability to apply theories to real-world phenomena and strengthened knowledge integration. The interactive Q&A session was particularly valuable, helping students clarify doubts, fill knowledge gaps, and improve independent thinking, enabling them to approach economic problems more effectively.

Overall, the tutorial prepared students well for future coursework and exams, providing valuable insights into the production theory and different market structures.

Text: Benson Lin

On the afternoon of November 28, 2024, Camões House hosted MCMC’s inaugural Thanksgiving celebration at W31 dining hall. The event, designed by Camões House Resident Tutor, Stephanie Andaluz, brought friends together for a joyous celebration of gratitude and friendly competition.

The evening began with a delicious traditional Thanksgiving dinner thoroughly enjoyed by all participants. It was accompanied with an explanation of the roots of this wonderful American tradition, and the atmosphere was filled with warmth and appreciation for each other’s company.

Students from different cultures and backgrounds sat side by side and exchanged their traditions, ending the dinner saying appreciative words to each other. A game of “musical charades” started after dinner, and soon, everyone quickly began bonding over laughter and friendly rivalry, further enhancing their respective cultural understanding and social connections.

Through this event, students not only enjoyed a memorable first Thanksgiving dinner, but also had the opportunity to cultivate a sense of community, respect for diverse traditions and build strong friendships through lighthearted competition.

The evening ended with laughs, hugs, new friends and a sense of gratitude and belonging to our college that were accompanied by a wonderful group karaoke time that encored the feeling of one big, united family in MCMC.

Text: Stephanie Andaluz

On November 23rd, a group of sixteen dedicated students from Moon Chun Memorial College at the University of Macau embarked on a meaningful journey to Masdaw, an animal welfare organization. Our mission was to dedicate our time and energy to walking and caring for dogs in need, an endeavor that transcends a simple service activity.

Upon arrival, we spent over an hour in the courtyard, learning the nuances of interacting with the dogs. This initial period was crucial for understanding their behavior and building trust. After becoming acquainted with the dogs, we proceeded to take them out for walks, either individually or in pairs, ensuring each dog received personalized attention.

Our volunteer service at Masdaw not only brought care and companionship to the dogs, but also enriched our own lives.

Text: Helen, Lu Yingjia

On November 20, Camões House RA Feng Yongqin successfully organized a Chinese chess experience learning activity. The event began with friendly matches among participants, allowing everyone to exchange and share their understanding of Chinese chess, thereby enhancing their skills.

The players actively participated, showcasing their basic chess skills. The atmosphere was lively, and everyone was eager to learn and improve through the games. Participants were grouped for simulated matches, which not only elevated their chess abilities but also deepened the friendships among chess enthusiasts.

In summary, this activity provided participants with an excellent opportunity to integrate knowledge, teamwork, and a love for traditional culture in a supportive environment.