A delegation from the University of Macau (UM) has embarked on a comprehensive tour of leading UK universities, to strengthen international partnerships and explore collaborative opportunities in research, talent cultivation, and student exchanges. The delegation members included Chunming Wang, Director of the Global Affairs Office, Kiran Lei, Functional Head, and Aimee Tam, Administrative Assistant, and Hongtao Zhou from the Department of Arts and Design. The team aims to enhance existing relationships and establish new connections with institutions recognized for their innovation and academic excellence.
At Brunel University of London, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Trevor Hoey and Director of the Brunel Design Research Centre Professor Hua Dong. Discussions focused on collaboration in design, leveraging the strengths of both institutions in creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary education.
The delegation then visited the Royal College of Art, where they met with Assistant Dean Tom Sowden and other faculty representatives. They toured the new Battersea design and innovation campus, engaging in productive discussions on educational programs that combine the strengths of both institutions to nurture exceptional talents in artistic practice and design thinking.
The visit to Imperial College London marked a significant step in deepening collaboration, with the delegation received by Alex Page, Head of Strategic Projects and Senior Partnerships Manager (Asia). Since establishing their partnership in 2019, both institutions have made considerable progress in student exchange programs and inter-faculty cooperation.
At Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), the delegation was welcomed by Ceri Bevan, Deputy Head of Global Partnerships and Opportunities and other key representatives. Productive exchanges facilitated discussions on expanding student mobility programs and interdisciplinary collaboration. Both institutions eagerly look forward to the establishment of dual degree programs between QMUL’s Centre for Commercial Law Studies and UM’s Faculty of Law.
The delegation also visited King’s College London, where they met Wei Liu, Professor of Design Engineering and Innovation, who shared her cutting-edge research in design engineering. This sparked discussions on innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration, concluding with a guided campus tour that offered insights into King’s vibrant academic environment.
At Oriel College, University of Oxford, the delegation engaged with Oriel College’s Treasurer, Margaret Jones, and Director of Office of International Programmes & Partnerships, George Connolly while touring the historic college grounds. Both parties expressed enthusiasm about the mutual student exchanges scheduled for this summer, reinforcing their shared commitment to meaningful international partnerships. Under the leadership of Professor Desmond Lam, College Master of Lui Che Woo College (LCWC) at UM, twenty students from LCWC are poised to participate in a summer programme at Oriel College, University of Oxford, where they look forward to experiencing the college’s historic quads and picturesque gardens this June.
On the same day, Hongtao Zhou visited the University of Warwick, where he met with Emily Lim, Associate Director of International Strategy and Relations, and colleagues. During his time on campus, Zhou toured the University of Warwick’s Business School and the Warwick Innovation District, gaining insights into the university’s dynamic approach to interdisciplinary education and innovation.
At University of Sheffield, the delegation were warmly received by Ben Short, Head of International Partnerships and Global Opportunities. The team explored the iconic Diamond Building and the innovative iForge, a student-led makerspace that fosters creativity and hands-on learning. Several immediate initiatives were discussed, and both parties agreed to continue these discussions at an upcoming leading European Summit to explore further.
At the University of Leeds, the delegation was welcomed by Lisa Beare, Deputy Head of Global Opportunities, and other key faculty members. The parties held productive discussions regarding the status quo of student participation in dual degree programs, summer programs and exchange programs between the two institutions.
At Durham University, Simon Litchfield, Deputy Head of Global Opportunities & Experience, and Peter Bainbridge, International Partnerships Manager, facilitated valuable discussions that explored shared goals and deepened institutional connections. The delegation visited Durham’s Science Site and the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
As the programme drew to a close, the team was treated to a poignant and symbolic moment—a rainbow arching across the sky on the final day of the trip. This natural spectacle served as a fitting conclusion to the UK visit, embodying a spirit of renewal and optimism, and symbolising the bright future that lies ahead for all involved.The UM delegation’s UK visit has paved the way for expanding partnerships and enhancing UM’s international profile. As the university continues to cultivate high-end talent with a global perspective, it remains committed to strengthening collaborations with higher education institutions worldwide.
