A Bosom Friend Afar Brings a Distant Land Near:
Outstanding Students from Renowned Universities
Around the World Gathers at
University of Macau’s
Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College
This summer, the University of Macau (UM) hosted the “Summer Camp for Outstanding Students of UM Partner Universities” and “East Lighthouse Talent Development Scheme — Learning Experience Summer Program for International Students.” These activities attracted more than 100 outstanding students from nearly 60 universities across 13 countries and regions. As the supporting unit for the College life experience of the summer camp, Ma Man Kei and Lo Pak Sam College (MLC) made every effort to assist students in launching a week-long journey of academic and cultural exploration.
MLC warmly welcomed students from various countries with thoughtful care and services, assisting them in settling into the college, familiarizing themselves with the facilities, and addressing any urgent issues or daily needs.
To enhance international students’ understanding of the college system and cultural features of the University of Macau, MLC arranged a special guided tour. Professor YANG Liu, the College Master personally welcomed the students, while Associate Master Gary Fung and Resident Fellows introduced the college’s characteristics, educational philosophy, and facility arrangements. In the college lobby, students were delighted to read the displayed collection titled “Ma Man Kei’s Patriotic Poetry Anthology,” through which they experienced Mr. Ma’s cultural spirit and patriotism, thereby deepening their understanding of the history and values behind the college’s name.
Afterward, they visited the college’s signature educational project “Academy of Aesthetic Education.” This space not only showcases the College’s philosophy of aesthetic education but also serves as a vital place for students to explore aesthetic awareness and engage in humanistic inquiry. The delegation showed great interest in the student photography and installation art displayed on the walls, pausing to admire and praise the works.
The students continued their visit to the warmly designed “Double Three Café” — a space that has become an important place for daily communication and mental relaxation between college staff and students. International students particularly appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the literary ambiance of the space, expressing that it felt “like being in their own living room, so comfortable and leisurely.”
The students visited the college’s “MLC Encyclopedia Library” and expressed great admiration for its collection of books that blend Chinese and Western cultures, as well as its warm and inviting learning environment. They were especially fascinated by the mini-exhibition of traditional costumes from China’s 56 ethnic groups and the display of authentic Chinese ink paintings, offering praise in various ways. Passing through the serene and elegant college courtyard, the students arrived at the fitness area. Eager to try it out, they were deeply impressed by the advanced facilities and the healthy lifestyle promoted within the University of Macau’s residential college.
Throughout the guided tour, students shared their observations and experiences, commending the thoughtful arrangements and the warm atmosphere of the college facilities. They were particularly impressed by the integration of art, culture, and community spirit in the overall design of the space, expressing hope for future opportunities to experience life at the University of Macau more deeply.
During the summer camp, students also participated in several cultural interactions and academic exchange activities organized by the university. They engaged in games and team challenges within the college, and at the invitation of the Global Affairs Office, College Master Professor YANG Liu personally presented awards to the students, creating a warm and ceremonial atmosphere that made their time in the college even more memorable and reflected the college’s recognition and encouragement of the students.
As the summer camp drew to a close, Typhoon “Wipha,” classified as a strong level 10 storm, was approaching. MLC promptly activated its “Typhoon Care Action,” during which the academic team engaged in conversations with students to alleviate the mental and physical stress caused by the severe weather, ensuring the safety of all resident students.
MLC sincerely expresses gratitude to the University of Macau and the Global Affairs Office for their trust, as well as to the students from various regions for their active participation. We also appreciate the hard work of all staff involved in the reception and activities. MLC will continue to uphold its caring spirit and educational mission, providing a warm, supportive, and multicultural growth environment for more international students, thereby promoting the ongoing development of the college system in a global context.
Student Testimonials:
Cui Likun, University of Science and Technology of China:
I feel very honored to have participated in this summer camp. Thank you, UM, for providing this learning opportunity. I look forward to coming back!
Thank you, MLC, for taking care of us these past five days. I’ve been very happy here — I love everything about the college! I’ll remember you all!
Mevin Babu, University of Warwick, United Kingdom:
This is a wonderful experience! I love UM. MLC is well-managed — everything is perfect!
Percida Albino Langa, Eduardo Mondlane University, Mozambique:
Thank you for the thoughtful snacks and support—it brought real comfort during the unforgettable typhoon experience!
Appreciation from Various Parts of the World
The Love and Reflections of Portuguese-speaking Students Staying in the College During the Typhoon
