To propel Macao to the forefront of developments in smart tourism, IFTM and Senge Data Technology will create a ‘Joint Laboratory on Culture and Tourism Metaverse’ via a strategic partnership
IFTM continues to solidify its position as a major educational and research hub focusing on information technology applied to hospitality and tourism. After recently launching a series of postgraduate programmes in smart technologies applicable to hospitality and tourism, as well as programmes in digital marketing and analytics, the Institute is to establish a research facility to explore opportunities presented by the metaverse in relation to the cultural and tourism sectors.
In late October, IFTM formed a strategic partnership with Senge Data Technology Macao Ltd to create a “Joint Laboratory on Culture and Tourism Metaverse”. The signing ceremony involved Dr Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan, President of IFTM, and Mr. Leo Chong Chi Kuan, Chairman and General Manager of Senge.
The collaboration aims to set up a demonstration base for metaverse-related culture and tourism initiatives in Macao. By combining IFTM’s educational and research expertise with Senge’s resources in information technology, the partnership aims to function as a bridge connecting academia, industry, and the market.
The deal’s primary objective is development of smart tourism and to explore the integration of information science into tourism, to enhance Macao’s position as a “World Centre of Tourism and Leisure”.
Senge and its Shenzhen-based parent are recognised for their terrestrial and space-borne remote-sensing platforms. Senge plans to utilise these capabilities to construct a metaverse view of Macao, using collected data combined with real-scene 3D modelling and employing artificial intelligence. This approach aims to enable the aggregation, analysis, and calculation of urban ‘big data’, leading to precise models.
The joint laboratory will be a focal point for cooperation regarding industry-education integration, talent cultivation, and the commercial application, promotion, and generalisation of smart tourism, according to the partners.
Additionally, by utilising Senge’s expertise, IFTM plans to establish a digital campus using metaverse technology. This initiative will introduce new digital education methods and utilise metaverse technology for innovative applied practices in education. The goal is to enhance the educational experience and skills of students, fostering professionals with versatile sets of skills in smart tourism information services, management, product development, and e-commerce marketing.
The Joint Laboratory on Culture and Tourism Metaverse will also engage in exchanges and cooperation with tourist destinations, educational institutions, and enterprises, particularly in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area as well as nationwide. It will also be used to provide students with valuable internship opportunities.
