The University of Macau, Macao Polytechnic University, and Macao University of Tourism jointly opened the new academic year on Tuesday at the first-phase campus of the Macao-Hengqin International Education (University) Town, welcoming its inaugural cohort of students.

The opening of the first-phase campus marks a substantial step towards the goal of extending Macao's higher education institutions into Hengqin, a Macao Special Administrative Region government spokesperson said.

More than 1,450 postgraduates have been admitted to the first-phase campus this academic year, studying in fields including artificial intelligence, microelectronics, big data, internet of things, and cultural and creative industries management, according to the Macao SAR government.

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The Macao government said the university town will boost the integrated development of Macao’s education, technology and talent cultivation. The city will use this momentum as a springboard, while also pooling resources from both Macao and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, to play a bigger role in national growth, the Macao government said.

Macao Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture O Lam, together with the heads of the universities, welcomed the students, saying they are embarking on a "two city learning experience".

They encouraged the students to pursue academic excellence and make the most of the integrated Macao-Hengqin development for personal growth while contributing to the nation's progress.

Contact the writer at gangwen@chinadailyhk.com