The start of 2026 marked a double celebration at the MPU campus. Held under the theme “Innovation and Excellence in Science and Technology”, the University’s Open Day welcomed more than 4,800 visitors, including secondary school students, parents, educators, professionals and members of the public from Macao and abroad, to explore MPU’s academic strengths and campus life. The event coincided with the Scholarship Awards Ceremony, which recognised 600 outstanding students for excellence in academic and professional fields, while also expressing heartfelt appreciation to community partners and organisations that have long supported the University’s development.
Discovering Opportunities at the Open Day
The Open Day was officially launched by Chu Zhiwen, Representative of the Education and Youth Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Teng Sio Hong, Deputy Director of the Education and Youth Development Bureau of the Macao SAR Government; Vivian Lei, Acting Rector of MPU; along with principals and representatives from over 30 Macao secondary schools.
In her address, Acting Rector Vivian Lei noted that 2026 coincides with MPU’s 45th anniversary, a milestone that reflects the University’s long‑standing commitment to serving Macao through education, research and innovation. She highlighted that MPU’s achievements, now recognised both nationally and internationally, have been made possible through sustained community support, and reaffirmed the University’s dedication to nurturing future talent.
Throughout the day, academic units opened teaching and research facilities, offering programme briefings, exhibitions, workshops and hands‑on experiences across disciplines including innovative technologies, health sciences and sports, language and translation, arts and creative industries, humanities and social sciences, and business and finance. Informal “Chit‑Chat with MPU” sessions, where academics discussed study pathways and industry trends with visitors, were particularly well received.
The strong turnout of school leaders highlighted the close partnership between secondary and higher education in Macao. These schools have long supported MPU’s recruitment and talent‑development efforts while guiding students in their academic progression.
From Macao and Hengqin to the World
In line with the Macao SAR Government’s vision for the Macao-Hengqin International Education (University) Town, MPU announced its development plan during the Open Day. The first phase will begin between August and September 2026, with postgraduate programmes in health and wellbeing, advanced technologies and Chinese-Portuguese studies launching at the initial Hengqin teaching site. Construction of the Hengqin campus is scheduled to start in 2027, creating new opportunities for cross‑regional and international collaboration.
Prospective students shared that Open Day activities, including programme briefings and “AI+” experiential sessions, provided valuable insight into MPU’s curriculum design and multicultural campus environment, helping them make more informed decisions about their study and career paths.
Celebrating Student Excellence
At the 2026 Scholarship Awards Ceremony, 600 students were recognised for their academic and professional accomplishments. Rector Professor Marcus Im expressed sincere appreciation to scholarship donors and community partners, noting that MPU graduates now contribute across diverse sectors, supporting both Macao’s development and the nation’s broader goals. He emphasised that the University will continue to work closely with society, strengthening its role within the national development framework.
Student representatives thanked the University and donors for their support, which enables them to focus on learning and personal growth. Through expanded international exposure, internships and interdisciplinary initiatives under the “AI+” framework, MPU stays committed to enhancing students’ technological literacy and career readiness.
A Shared Journey of 45 Years
Behind every academic achievement and research breakthrough lies the steadfast support of the wider community. MPU extends its sincere appreciation to the organisations whose long‑standing commitment has helped nurture generations of students. Their partnership has played a vital role in advancing education, innovation and talent development at MPU, empowering students to pursue excellence and contribute meaningfully to Macao, the nation and the wider global community.