The Macao University of Tourism (UTM) held its 10th Tourism Education Student Summit yesterday at Studio City in Cotai, where 45 undergraduate and postgraduate students presented their projects and theses.
This year themed “Tourism in the Digital Age: Embracing Change and Innovation”, the annual event marked its 10th anniversary and was co-hosted with Melco Resorts & Entertainment.
During her welcome address yesterday morning, UTM Acting Rector Connie Loi Kim Ieng highlighted the evolving industry amidst rapid technological advancements and the public university’s efforts in preparing students for the future.
“The impacts of rapid technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), cannot be overstated. AI has the potential to revolutionise how we approach tourism, from enhancing customer experiences to optimising operations and streamlining decision-making processes. At UTM, we are fully aware that equipping our students with the skills to harness these advancements is crucial for their future success”.
She added: “By integrating AI and digital elements into our curriculum, we are not just teaching students how to adapt; we are empowering them to lead”.
Research papers were presented by UTM students, as well as invited students from institutions across other Greater Bay Area (GBA) cities, throughout the day, covering a raft of topics in hotel management, event management, cultural heritage, tourism marketing, and technological innovation in front of a panel of academics and industry experts. Keynote speeches were also held.
The day culminated in the Best Paper Awards. Six students received the awards.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters prior to the start of the awards, Loi said that the number of students enrolling in courses for the new academic year has increased compared to the previous year. She also mentioned that UTM will expand its recruitment of students from “Belt and Road” (B&R) countries and Portuguese-speaking countries (PSCs).
UTM Acting Rector Connie Loi Kim Ieng (centre) poses with six students who received the Best Paper Awards at Studio City, Macau in Cotai.
A student delivers a presentation of her research at Studio City in Cotai. – Photos: Rui Pastorin
