A delegation from Macao University of Tourism (UTM), led by Dr. Fanny Vong, Rector of UTM, with Dr. Connie Loi, Vice-rector for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Clara Lei, Dean of Faculty of Innovative Hospitality Management, visited France and Switzerland to strengthen collaboration with international higher education institutions at the end of November 2024.

The first stop for the delegation was the renowned École Ducasse in Paris, France. Dr. Vong signed an important memorandum of understanding with Karine Hyon-Vintrou, Managing Director of École Ducasse. Eligible students of the Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts Management programme at UTM will not only be exempted from the internship requirement of the diploma course at École Ducasse, but will also be offered scholarships.

UTM delegation as well visited institutions rated among the top 10 QS World University Rankings by Subject (Hospitality and Leisure Management), namely Glion Institute of Higher Education, Les Roches Global Hospitality Education, Swiss Hotel Management School, César Ritz Colleges Switzerland, and Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland. The delegation reviewed current collaboration and planned future cooperation with the management of these institutions.

Additionally, UTM delegation met with students enrolled in the 3+1 Dual Bachelor Programme and the 4+1 Master Progression Pathway to understand their learning experiences. The students expressed that these programmes have broadened their international perspectives, enhanced their knowledge and cultural literacy, and created more opportunities for their future careers.

This trip not only strengthened the connections between UTM and international higher education institutions but also provided more academic and career development opportunities for students.

UTM will continue to focus on improving educational quality and promoting collaboration with institutions worldwide to cultivate professionals with an international perspective.