SJM Resorts and the Macao University of Tourism (UTM) have recently launched the SJM “Forge My Own Journey” Development Programme, with the signing and inauguration ceremony held last week at the Grand Pavilion in the Grand Lisboa Palace (GLP) in Cotai.
An SJM statement yesterday noted that the programme combines theoretical education with practical work experience. SJM Managing Director Daisy Ho Chiu Fung and UTM Rector Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the programme.
The signing was witnessed by Sun Yaohua, director of the Economic Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR; Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) Director Chan Un Tong; and Tang Wai Keong, director of the Education Resources Department of the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ).
The statement highlighted that the programme will last four years and provide students with internships in various SJM departments, including Hotel Operations and Food and Beverage (F&B) Management. Students will receive monthly salaries and fringe benefits during their internships, helping them gain work experience. Graduates will receive full tuition sponsorship for their studies at UTM and opportunities for junior management roles at SJM.
The programme will welcome 70 Form 6 graduates in the 2025 academic year. The statement noted that there was strong interest, with over 2,000 students and parents attending 30 information sessions organised with 26 local secondary schools. Some of the successful applicants ranked among the top of their classes, with some choosing this programme over direct admissions to universities in the mainland, the statement said.
Ho emphasised SJM’s commitment to nurturing local talent, stating, “This collaboration aims to leverage SJM’s extensive experience in the integrated tourism and leisure industry alongside UTM’s strong academic foundation.” She also highlighted the goal of cultivating the next generation of professionals equipped with both international vision and professional competence.
Vong echoed this sentiment, noting that the programme equips students with comprehensive knowledge through a blend of theoretical learning and practical application. “This programme enables students to swiftly embark on professional paths within the integrated tourism and leisure industry,” she said.
The statement indicated that SJM plans to work closely with local educational institutions in the future to “support talent development and enhance employee skills” in Macau’s tourism and leisure sectors.
This handout photo taken on March 12 and provided by SJM yesterday shows UTM Rector Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan (third from left) and SJM Managing Director Daisy Ho Chiu Fung (fourth from left) officiating the“Forge My Own Journey” Development Programme launch ceremony at Grand Lisboa Palace (GLP) in Cotai.
