The Macao Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM) is to become ‘Macao University of Tourism’, with its Portuguese name being ‘Universidade de Turismo de Macau’ (UTM), from 1 April 2024. It follows Macao’s Legislative Assembly approving a new legal framework for the higher education institution
In a momentous development, the Macao Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM) is to become ‘Macao University of Tourism’ with effect from 1 April. It follows the approval by the Legislative Assembly on 5 February of a new legal framework for the higher education institution.
Ms. Ao Ieong U, Macao’s Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, attended the plenary meeting of the Legislative Assembly that made the decision, outlining the exciting opportunities the change would bring. She also underscored the potential for establishing a supplementary campus on neighbouring Hengqin Island. The Secretary characterised it as a strategic move to nurture tourism professionals for the whole of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, a step that would contribute to the long-term development of tourism and hospitality sector talent at a national level.
Secretary Ao Ieong also disclosed plans to expand the Taipa Campus by allocating to the higher education establishment buildings currently utilised by City University of Macau. The latter recently reached an agreement with the Macao SAR Government for the granting of land to construct its own new campus.
The Secretary stated: “For a world-class tourism city, it is essential to develop more facilities for education and training in the fields of tourism, conventions and exhibitions.”
Dr. Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan, President of IFTM, expressed pride in the institution’s renaming to university. With a keen eye on the growing demand for skilled tourism professionals on the Mainland, the future Macao University of Tourism is to introduce new postgraduate and doctoral programmes in the field, Dr. Vong said.
“As we expand our presence in Hengqin and the Greater Bay Area, we are committed to increasing student-enrolment capacity and to building highly-qualified faculty teams,” she added.
In a congratulatory message to the students and to her colleagues, Dr. Vong acknowledged the collective efforts contributing to the Institute’s growth over its almost 30-year history since its establishment in 1995. The President expressed gratitude to all who played a role in reaching the new milestone, highlighting the unity and teamwork that has propelled the institution.
As IFTM prepares for a new chapter and fresh responsibilities under a new name, Dr. Vong encouraged the institution to continue its dedication to nurturing talent and to ensuring its alignment with the evolving needs of Macao and of the country. The name change represents not only a symbolic shift but also a strategic alignment with the broader goals of education and professional development in the region.
