To deepen students’ understanding of the financial industry, the Faculty of Business at Macao Polytechnic University (MPU) recently organized a study tour to the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin (Cooperation Zone). Through on-site visits to various types of financial institutions, students gained valuable insights into the development process and financial ecosystem of the Cooperation Zone, laying a solid foundation and gaining practical experience for their future careers in finance.

The study tour was led by Huang Guihai, Dean of the Faculty of Business, and Dr. Song Chen, together with postgraduate students from the Master of Science in Finance and Data Analytics program. The group first visited Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin Planning Exhibition Halls to gain a comprehensive understanding of Hengqin’s current development and strategic planning. They then visited GF Fund Management Co., Ltd. (public fund), Hengqin JinTou International Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (local financial institution), and Hillhouse Investment (private equity fund), concluding the trip with a meeting at the Hengqin Financial Development Bureau.

During the visit to GF Fund Management Co., Ltd., the company’s Human Resources representative provided an in-depth introduction to the operation model of public funds and shared key skills and competencies required for prospective job applicants. At Hengqin JinTou International Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., company representatives explained the practical operations of operating and financial leasing, and encouraged MPU students with interdisciplinary backgrounds to consider joining the firm. Later, at Hillhouse Investment, the company’s representatives hosted an on-site recruitment session, introducing the firm’s private equity business and potential career paths, and warmly invited students to apply—eliciting an enthusiastic response. The final stop was the Hengqin Financial Development Bureau, where senior officials introduced the Cooperation Zone’s advantages and potential in financial innovation, talent policies, and employment development. They also extended a warm invitation to MPU students to pursue internships and career opportunities in Hengqin, further sparking students’ professional aspirations.

Dean Huang Guihai remarked that the study tour represents an important initiative by the Faculty to bridge academic learning and industry practice. The study tour aims to help students gain a first-hand understanding of how different financial institutions operate, broaden their professional perspectives, enhance employability, and explore diversified career opportunities. Participating students expressed that the visit was highly rewarding—not only did it deepen their understanding of the financial sector, but it also allowed them to directly interact with industry professionals, learn about employers’ recruitment needs and expectations, and gain clearer guidance for their future career planning and job search.