City University of Macau (CityU) welcomed its 44th anniversary today (March 28). The University held a flag-raising ceremony this morning at the platform garden of the Tai Fung Building, aiming to cultivate patriotism and love for Macao among faculty and students while conveying best wishes for the nation and the Macao SAR.
On the same day, CityU held the Inauguration Ceremony of the 44th Anniversary of City University of Macau cum 2025 International Forum on Urban Science and the Inauguration Ceremony of Academy for Seniors cum University-Enterprise Collaboration Agreement Signing Ceremony, at the Cultural Centre, Taipa Campus, 9:30 a.m.
Local officials and the University’s management officiated the event. They included O Lam, the representative of the Chief Executive of the Macao SAR and Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture; Li Xuefei, director of the Education and Youth Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Gao Yuan, director of the Department of Information and Public Diplomacy of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Macao; Kong Chi Meng, director of the Education and Youth Affairs Bureau; Chan Meng Kam, chancellor and council chairman; Yan Zexian, vice chairman of the University Council; Kong Fanqing, vice chairman woman of the University Council; and Rector Jun Liu.
Rector Jun Liu stated that CityU, as an applied metropolitan university with “Macao’s Characteristics, China’s Soul, Global Vision,” has built an academic hub centered on the humanities and social sciences based on the “four new disciplines,” with artificial intelligence as a guiding force, while reinforcing interdisciplinary construction and the integration of technology. He mentioned the University’s commitment to expand international cooperation, especially exchanges with the Portuguese-speaking countries (PSCs), through its dual strength of “Global network + distinctive PSC features.”
Rector Liu highlighted that the establishment of the “Institute of Urban and Sustainable Development” on the occasion of its 44th anniversary aimed to create a world-class urban research think tank and an innovative platform for sustainable development; while the launch of the “Academy for Seniors” aimed to support the objectives of the Healthy Macao Blueprint, the construction of a happy Macao, a healthy Greater Bay Area, and to serve the Healthy China 2023 goals. He proposed that CityU’s “advanced development plan” to strengthen faculty development, deepen curriculum reform, and enhance research and innovation capabilities, extend its educational reach, establish itself as an international education hub and a talenthub in the Greater Bay Area. “Going forward, CityU will continue to cultivate more outstanding talents with a patriotic sentiment and an international perspective, guided by the needs of the nation and the strengths of Macao,” said Rector Liu.
In his speech, Director Kong Chi Meng spoke highly of and congratulated CityU on its achievements in recent years. He affirmed CityU’s mission of “Serving Macao, Integrating into the Bay Area,” highlighting its role in cultivating a wealth of academic and applied professionals. He underscored CityU’s efforts in enhancing its academic structure in recent years, aligning it with current demands and helping talents enhance their innovation. Additionally, he emphasized the University’s active collaboration with enterprises in areas such as smart cities, the internet, and big data to promote integrated development in educational advancement, technological innovation, and talent cultivation.
Kong highlighted the SAR government’s priority on the well-being of both seniors and youth, as well as its ongoing efforts to improve the livelihood security system across various fields. He noted that the establishment of the Institute of Urban and Sustainable Development (IUSD) and the Academy for Seniors was significant, providing intellectual support for future environmental and social development. He stated that these initiatives would create better living and ecological environments, encouraging residents to pursue lifelong education and cultivate skills to adapt to future changes in society. He also encouraged CityU to continue forging ahead with its legacy and nurturing more practical talents for the development of China and the Greater Bay Area.
Subsequently, the guest of honor unveiled the plaque of the “Institute of Urban and Sustainable Development.” The ceremony also included the launch of the “Academy for Seniors” and a signing ceremony for collaboration between CityU and the enterprises. Rector Jun Liu, along with Ng Siu Lai, president of the General Union of Neighbourhood Associations of Macau; Lau Kam Ling, president of the Women’s General Association of Macau; Si Ka Lon, president of the Macau United Citizens Association; Chio Lan Ieng, vice president of the Board of Directors of Macau Federation of Trade Unions; Pun Chi Meng, secretary general of Caritas Macau; and Iu Hei Man, administrative director of the Sin Meng Charity Association, signed cooperation agreements, aiming to create a diversified learning and social platform for the well-being of local seniors.
With the establishment of the Institute of Urban and Sustainable Development, CityU kicked off the 2025 International Forum on Urban Science following the anniversary ceremony. This event brought together urban science experts, scholars, and professionals from around the world to share cutting-edge insights on the theme “Historical Legacy and Modern Visions: Sustainable Urban Development in Metropolitan Areas.” contributing to global wisdom.
The forum will last for two days and features multiple sub-forums. The first day includes the Master’s Forum led by several internationally renowned experts and academicians. Tomorrow, there will be Greater Bay Area Enterprise Forum, Greater Bay Area Dean’s Forum, Young and Senior Scholars’ Forum, and Student’s Forum, bringing together business leaders, academic deans, young scholars, and students to discuss research findings, innovative practices, and future directions in urban sustainable development.
