In June, when lotus leaves are jade-green and the scent of lotus fills the air, Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College (MLC) at the University of Macau welcomed its sister college — a delegation from Tsinghua University’s Rixin College. The 14-member delegation was led by   Professor Gu Tao, College Master of Rixin College and warmly received by Professor Yang Liu, College Master of Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College. The two sides engaged in a series of heart-warming and meaningful activities.

Warm and Touching Opening Remarks

The first event took place in the afternoon at MLC’s Evergreen Dining Hall. Master Yang Liu delivered a warm and heartfelt welcoming speech, beginning with the words, “Our sister college has arrived!”—instantly setting a cordial and uplifting tone. She emphasized that since the establishment of the sisterhood between the two colleges in 2024, they have engaged in multiple exchange visits, laying a solid foundation for cooperation. Master Yang fondly recounted the origins and memorable highlights of the colleges’ exchanges, praised Tsinghua University as a paragon of excellence, and acknowledged Rixin College’s remarkable achievements in residential education. She noted that MLC’s holistic educational philosophy aligns naturally with Rixin’s emphasis on nurturing top-tier innovative talent, and expressed strong confidence that future collaborations would produce fruitful and meaningful results.

The opening was followed by Master Gu Tao’s affectionate and sincere speech. He said, “it is truly delightful to kick off our activities in this scenic and vibrant ‘Evergreen’ setting! From first hearing about MLC to late-night conversations with Master Yang envisioning a sister college partnership, and now finally seeing the beautiful MLC in person — we are thrilled and excited.” He introduced Rixin College’s educational approach, particularly the “one person, one plan” model. He expressed his hope for deeper and richer cooperation between the two colleges in the future, promoting more profound sister-college exchanges.

“Twin Lotus Blossoms” Symbolize Deep Sisterly Bonds

During the grand plaque exchange ceremony, both colleges presented specially designed commemorative plaques. They feature twin lotus blossoms, rich in symbolism: the words for “lotus” and “harmony,” as well as “connection,” are homophones in Chinese. The twin lotus symbolizes harmony, peace, collaboration, unity, and joint effort. Above the lotus are five golden stars representing national aspirations and glory. A bridge in the center connects the two colleges, signifying a heartfelt bond. The elegant twin-lotus plaques represent the shared efforts of the sister colleges in building a harmonious and peaceful academic community. The ceremony was solemn yet warm, witnessed by faculty and students of both colleges. To commemorate this moment of profound significance, both parties exchanged souvenirs.

Insightful Keynote Speech

Subsequently, Professor Gu Tao delivered an impressive keynote speech titled “The Three Ancient Capitals in Chinese History: Xi’an, Hangzhou, and Beijing.” He pointed out that understanding Chinese history requires a long-term and broad geographical perspective, observing the development context of China through the geographical and historical characteristics of these ancient capitals. He first elaborated on the important positions and historical changes of these three ancient capitals in Chinese history. He then further discussed the historical continuity between the “Belt and Road” initiative and the ancient Silk Road, proposing that Macau plays a prominent role in the integration of Chinese and Western cultures, suggesting that it can serve as an important node for studying the relationship between Chinese and world history. Professor Gu’s speech was lofty and expansive, with deep implications, providing profound insights and teachings to the faculty and students of both colleges. Master Yang Liu presented a certificate of appreciation to Master Gu Tao.

In-depth and Nuanced Exchanges

At the subsequent teacher-student forum, Associate Professor Xiong Ying from Rixin College introduced the College’s educational philosophy and practices. She shared her experience as a freshman advisor and Introduction to Literature instructor, emphasizing the importance of deep communication with students in building college culture. Dr. Stanley Chan from MLC presented the “Four-in-One” educational model of UM’s colleges, the “Seven Competencies” training goals, and MLC’s core values of “Grand Beauty, Great Love, and Great Truth,” and promoted its signature initiatives such as the “Aesthetic Education Academy,” the “Love China, Love Macau Exhibition Hall,” as well as its vibrant student life and facilities.

Student representatives from both colleges spoke actively. Rixin College counselor Ying Wenmin reflected on his participation in multiple joint events from undergraduate to PhD level and expressed his commitment to supporting education and services at the college. Shan Jiayi shared how Rixin’s rich academic atmosphere and dedicated mentors gave her a strong sense of belonging. MLC student representative Lai Zhenni described MLC as a warm and reliable harbor, where the College Master and College Fellows support students holistically, patiently listen, and help students find direction and confidence for the future.

Site Visits Deepen Understanding

In the latter part of the event, the delegation toured MLC’s student activity areas and educational exhibits, gaining first-hand experience of the College’s dedication to cultural development and student nurturing. Master Yang introduced the “Love China, Love Macau Exhibition Hall,” describing it as an important base for understanding national and local history. The exhibits and practical outcomes offer valuable guidance to students and foster a unique cultural atmosphere and sense of belonging. The delegation also experienced the “Aesthetic Education Academy,” a hallmark of MLC’s approach to cultivating noble character and aesthetic sensitivity through art. They viewed traditional Chinese art such as paintings, wood carvings, and porcelain works, as well as photos of student workshops, gaining a deep understanding of MLC’s aesthetic education in practice. In the evening, MLC further conducted exchanges with its sister college, further deepening mutual understanding and friendship through relaxed exchanges.

This sister-college exchange not only strengthened substantive collaboration between the two institutions but also laid a solid foundation for future cooperation in educational philosophy, cultural interaction, and talent development. Both sides look forward to more exciting activities in Beijing and Macau in the future!