FHS Hosts Camp for PRA Scheme Students to Inspire Future Health Science Stars

FHS held a two-day, one-night camp for nine students under “Principal’s Recommended Admission Scheme” who will enrol in the undergraduate programmes at FHS for the 2025/2026 academic year. The event aims to allow students to experience the university’s rich academic atmosphere and vibrant campus life in advance, while gaining an in-depth understanding of the cutting-edge developments and future learning directions in the field of health sciences.

At the opening ceremony, Assistant Dean (Student Affairs) Xuanjun ZHANG warmly welcomed all participants and provided a detailed introduction to the Faculty’s research directions, enhancing the students’ understanding of FHS and its programmes. He encouraged students to engage with professors and to explore different laboratories early on to discover their research interests. He also cautioned them that the learning methods in university differ significantly from those in high school, advising students to adjust their study approaches accordingly to improve learning efficiency. Following this, participants engaged in face-to-face discussions with Prof Henry KWOK, Department Head of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Prof Ying ZHENG, Department Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Both professors introduced their respective research areas, joint training programmes, and opportunities for overseas exchange, patiently answering the students’ questions.

Subsequently, under the guidance of the faculty technicians and current students, participants took part in various experiments related to biomedical sciences and pharmaceutical sciences, gaining a deeper appreciation of the scientific theories behind them and honing their experimental skills. During the closing ceremony, Prof Terence POON led the students on a tour of FHS Core Facilities, providing a detailed introduction to the advanced research equipment and encouraging students to absorb more research knowledge during the camp to prepare for their future academic paths.

In addition to academic experiences, participants visited the Stanley Ho East Asia College, where they personally experienced the college’s facilities and accommodation environment under the guidance of Resident Fellow Dr Saul CHAN. Furthermore, the college arranged for them to have lunch with undergraduate students from UM, allowing everyone to sit together to discuss campus life and share study experiences in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Wai Ian MAK, a student from Escola Choi Nong Chi Tai, is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology. She stated that the camp provided her with a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical sciences and technology programme. With a keen interest in hands-on experiments, she was excited to choose FHS as her destination. She noted in particular that the Macao government has been vigorously promoting the health industry in recent years, and she hopes to contribute to this field.

Iok Fong LIU, from Escola Kao Yip, is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. According to him, the camp intensified his interest in biomedical sciences, particularly in oncology. He is well aware of the UM’s strong research capabilities in the field of oncology, which has motivated him to pursue further studies in Macao. He said, “This camp has shown me the vast prospects in the field of biomedical sciences and has strengthened my determination to engage in research.”

FHS is committed to sparking students’ interest in health sciences in Macao, providing opportunities to learn about biomedicine knowledge and techniques, and broadening their research horizons. The camp for students under “Principal’s Recommended Admission Scheme” allows participants to experience university life first-hand and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen specialisation. Through interaction with professors and current students, they receive valuable advice and inspiration for their academic and career planning, enabling them to better adapt to university life. Attendees at the event also included Prof Edwin CHEUNG and Dr Bei LI.