To deepen academic cooperation between the two universities, broaden students’ international horizons and foster cross‑regional academic exchanges, the Faculty of Data Science, City University of Macau recently received a group of exchange students from Griffith University, Australia. Launched in the 2024‑2025 academic year, this marks the third cohort under the bilateral exchange programme. Initiated by Griffith University, this exchange programme aims to build a bridge for cross‑cultural learning and interaction for young students from both universities and inspire diverse intellectual exchanges among teachers and students.
Eight undergraduate students from Griffith University are joining City University of Macau for one‑semester exchange studies this semester. Among them, seven are local Australian students and one is from India. The exchange students will take courses related to data science, actively participate in faculty academic activities, and discuss cutting‑edge industry topics with local teachers and students.
Upon their arrival, student representatives from the faculty led all exchange students on a campus tour. Drawing on their own campus experience, the student representatives showed visitors key campus facilities, introduced campus culture and daily‑life resources in Macao. They also had casual conversations about living habits and academic routines, helping exchange students get familiar with the campus and ease the disorientation brought by studying in a new place.
Following the campus tour, a welcome meeting between teachers and students was held in Meeting Room N510. Professor Zhu Tianqing, Dean of the Faculty of Data Science, Associate Dean Chia-Wei Chu and Program Coordinator Liu Chi attended the event. Three faculty members, Assistant Professor Lai Shuying, Assistant Professor Zhang Bonan and Assistant Professor Wang Minghao, have been appointed as academic supervisors for these exchange students. Professor Zhu extended a warm welcome to the students who travelled to Macao. He encouraged them to seize this valuable cross‑cultural learning opportunity, engage actively in classes and campus community, gain new knowledge and build precious friendships with peers from diverse backgrounds.
To ensure a smooth exchange experience, the Faculty of Data Science, together with the International Training and Testing Centre and other departments, has made thorough preparations. Support services include course selection guidance, academic supervisor matching and introduction to campus resources, to help exchange students organise their study plans and clarify their research interests.
During the meeting, exchange students had face‑to‑face discussions with their three assigned academic supervisors. The supervisors elaborated on the faculty’s curriculum structure, key research areas and practical study tips, and encouraged students to voice their ideas and take part in academic activities. Each exchange student shared their academic background and research interests, and expressed their anticipation for the upcoming study and campus life.
Towards the end of the event, the faculty presented souvenirs to the eight exchange students and went through important notes for their stay. The faculty will keep close track of their academic progress and daily wellbeing, respond to their needs in a timely manner, and provide full‑scale academic guidance and logistical support. It is expected that the exchange students will have a rewarding and memorable study experience at City University of Macau.
