Author: Li Weimiao, Chang Kaili, Lin Ziqi, He Xueling 

Publisher: Publicity Office of the CPC Jinan University Committee 

Date: December 22, 2024

On December 20, 2024, Macao celebrated the 25th anniversary of its return to China, marking a period of unique vitality and development under the One Country, Two Systems framework. As a leading institution for overseas Chinese, Jinan University has consistently nurtured outstanding talents and cultural ambassadors for Macao, earning its reputation as the Macau Talent Pool. The university actively promotes scientific and technological cooperation between Guangdong and Macao, contributing significantly to the high-quality development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

 Jinan University: The Heart of Macao's Talent Development

With a population of over 600,000, Macao boasts more than 30,000 alumni from Jinan University—an impressive figure that translates to one Jinan graduate in every six families. These alumni excel in various fields, including media, finance, and healthcare, playing pivotal roles in the region's prosperity and stability. Notably, nearly 70% of professionals in Macao's public healthcare system are Jinan graduates. 

(He Shunfa and his classmates gether at Jinan University.)

One such alumnus, He Shunfa, Director of Urology at Renjue General Hospital, has made significant contributions to the medical field since graduating in 1983. He pioneered innovative surgical techniques for bladder dysfunction and was recently honored with the World Outstanding Chinese Physician Henry Fok Award, where he credited Jinan University for shaping his medical knowledge and character.

In finance, the Bank of China, Macao's largest financial institution, employs nearly 300 Jinan alumni. Vice President Chen Xiaoping, a 1987 graduate, has been instrumental in the bank's development, including its role as a key RMB settlement bank overseas.

Jinan University has also made its mark in Macao's media, education, law, and tourism sectors, with alumni serving in significant roles, including seven members elected to the 2021 Legislative Council.

 Innovative Educational Models to Foster National Identity

To cultivate steadfast patriots, Jinan University has developed the Two Integration and Three Immersion education model, which combines classroom learning with cultural activities. This approach encourages students from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and mainland China to engage deeply with their national identity. Student Wu Songzheng, who participated in cultural learning activities, expressed his aspiration to contribute to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's development after graduation.

 Promoting Technological Cooperation Between Guangdong and Macao

Since Macao's return to China, Jinan University has leveraged its overseas Chinese characteristics to foster high-level scientific and technological collaboration with Macao's universities and enterprises. The university has undertaken 16 Guangdong-Macao science and technology cooperation projects, with funding exceeding 10.68 million yuan.

Professor Yang Guanghua (third from the right) receives the 2023 Zhuhai Science and Technology Innovation Star award.

Shao Min (third from left) is elected as a Fellow of the Chinese Society of Environmental Sciences for 2024.

One notable project involves the development of smart tourism solutions, addressing current challenges in the industry. Collaborating with the University of Macau, Jinan University's research team has successfully applied their findings to enhance local tourism services through Aomi, Macao's largest lifestyle app.

 Cultural Exchange and the Role of Alumni

Jinan University remains committed to spreading traditional Chinese culture globally, in line with General Secretary Xi Jinping's vision. The university's Cultural Construction Plan Outline (2021-2025) includes various programs that immerse students in Chinese cultural studies. Alumni like Li Huiyin, who studied Kunqu Opera, and Lu Zhipeng, a senior consultant at the Macau Archives, exemplify the impact of Jinan's education in promoting Chinese culture in Macao.

(Li Huiyin participates in the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Macau's return to China in Zhongshan City.)

(Lü Zhipeng attends his own work press conference.)

Over the past 25 years, Jinan University has transformed many Macao students from cultural learners into cultural ambassadors, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their heritage. Moving forward, the university aims to cultivate more cultural sparks and messengers to enhance cultural exchanges between Guangdong and Macao, reinforcing its mission as the highest institution for overseas Chinese in the new era.