In a significant moment for higher education in Macao, the first batch of students acknowledged as Macao University of Tourism (UTM) graduates has received completion certificates. UTM, previously known as the Institute for Tourism Studies, marked its 2024 graduation ceremony in style, signifying a new era for its educational mission
On 13 June, a total of 421 universally jubilant UTM students proudly accepted completion certificates at the Graduation Ceremony 2024, held at the Tap Seac Multisport Pavilion. The ceremony was of particular significance for the institution, as it was the first under the UTM banner, symbolising a new identity as University, but also continuity in terms of commitment to excellence.
The graduating class of 2024 included students completing programmes at, respectively, doctoral, master’s, and bachelor’s degree level.
This year’s graduation ceremony was “unique as it is the first to be held since the institution became the Macao University of Tourism,” remarked UTM Rector, Dr. Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan, during her address.
Dr. Vong pointed that, over the past few years, what is now UTM had undergone several changes. “During your years of study here, I believe you have witnessed the rapid transformation of our university,” she said, addressing the graduating class. Dr. Vong noted significant advancements in study programmes, establishment of university-enterprise partnerships, and introduction of international exchange schemes.
“As the ‘first graduates’ of the Macao University of Tourism, you are at the forefront of wonderful opportunities in Macao’s development,” Dr. Vong continued. “I sincerely hope you will stay attuned to the times,” adopt a “global” perspective, “and explore new opportunities in Macao and elsewhere,” she added.
The ceremony was headed by the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Ms. Ao Ieong U, representing the Chief Executive and UTM Chancellor, Mr. Ho Iat Seng. Also attending was the Chair of the UTM Council, Mr. Chan Chak Mo.
Ms. Ao Ieong emphasised UTM’s “indispensable role” in Macao’s higher education landscape. She praised the institution’s efforts in training skilled professionals capable of propelling the city’s ‘tourism+’ strategy, which integrates tourism with various other sectors.
The Secretary highlighted that renaming as university had granted UTM “greater flexibility” for academic and infrastructural development, further cementing its reputation as a premier institution for tourism and hospitality education in the Asia-Pacific region. She assured those present of the Macao Government’s continued support for UTM’s internationalisation and pursuit of academic and research excellence.
Graduating class representative Mary Sun Rongqie, who studied for a Tourism Business Management Bachelor’s Degree, called the ceremony “a truly momentous occasion”. She reflected on the challenges and triumphs of academic life at UTM, attributing student success to the unwavering support of professors and undergraduates’ own perseverance.
Mary added that during her time as a UTM student, she had tried to make the best of the many opportunities offered by UTM. She recounted her enriching experiences from a one-year exchange programme at Beijing International Studies University and East China Normal University in Shanghai. “It greatly broadened my horizons and allowed me to gain valuable cross-cultural experiences,” she explained.
Representing the postgraduate cohort, Ms. Sophia Zhou Huizhi spoke of the honour of receiving a PhD in UTM’s first graduating class. She recalled her “intense but rewarding” journey, focusing on her research topic, ‘Collective memory in the tourism industry’.
Ms. Zhou encouraged her fellow graduates to embrace new challenges and step out of their respective comfort zone. She said pursuing dreams required courage, but it was “also exciting because it gives us the freedom to shape our own destiny”.
“The future is ours to create,” she concluded, addressing the 2024 UTM graduating class.
Editor: UTM Public Relations Team
