MACAU, February 19 - The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) of the University of Macau (UM) held a camp for nine Form Six students who will be enrolled in FHS undergraduate programmes in the 2025/2026 academic year through the Principal’s Recommended Admission Scheme. The two-day, one-night camp allowed the students to experience UM’s rich academic atmosphere and vibrant campus life in advance, while gaining insight into the latest developments and future learning directions in the field of health sciences.

At the opening ceremony, Zhang Xuanjun, assistant dean of FHS, gave a detailed introduction of the faculty team and research directions of FHS to enhance the participants’ understanding of the faculty and its programmes. He encouraged the students to interact with professors and visit laboratories to acquire relevant knowledge and explore their research interests. He also pointed out that the learning approach at university is different from that at secondary school, and advised the students to adapt their study methods accordingly to improve learning efficiency.

Henry Kwok Hang Fai, head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Zheng Ying, head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences of FHS, had face-to-face discussions with the participants. The two professors introduced their respective research directions, joint training programmes, and opportunities for overseas exchange. They also answered questions from the students. In addition, the participants took part in several experiments related to biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, gaining knowledge of the underlying scientific theories while honing their experimental skills. Terence Poon Chuen Wai, associate professor in FHS, led the students on a tour of the core facilities at FHS and gave a detailed introduction to the advanced research facilities. He encouraged the students to acquire more scientific knowledge during the camp to prepare them for their academic journey ahead.

The participants also visited Stanley Ho East Asia College, where they experienced the college’s facilities and living environment. They had lunch with UM undergraduate students and discussed campus life and shared learning experiences.

Mak Wai Ian, a student from Escola Choi Nong Chi Tai, will be enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology programme. She said that she chose this programme because of her interest in hands-on experiments, and that the camp gave her a deeper understanding of the programme. She also noted that the Macao government has been vigorously promoting the health industry in recent years, and expressed hope that she can contribute to the field.

Liu Iok Fong, a student from Kao Yip Middle School, will be enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences programme. He said that the camp increased his interest in biomedical sciences, especially oncology. He is well aware of UM’s strong research capabilities in oncology, which has motivated him to pursue further studies at UM.

FHS is committed to sparking Macao students’ interest in health sciences, providing them with opportunities to acquire knowledge and techniques in the field, and broadening their research horizons. The camp gave participants a glimpse of university life and a deeper understanding of their chosen specialisation. Through interaction with professors and current students, the participants received valuable advice and inspiration for their academic and career planning, enabling them to better adapt to university life.