Five students from the University of Macau (UM) Faculty of Business Administration (FBA) presented their research thesis to more than 100 local industry executive leaders, educators, professionals and students, at Mastering Cotai, a seminar co-organised by the FBA and the Asia-Pacific Academy of Economics and Management (APAEM) of UM, and sponsored by Galaxy Entertainment Group. The theme of the seminar was ‘bridging the gap between academia and Macao’s hospitality and gaming industry”.
The inaugural seminar aimed to provide greater insight and postgraduate scientific research related to some of the issues and challenges surrounding the development of the Cotai Strip and Macao as a tourism destination. It provides an opportunity for UM students and local industry executives to exchange ideas, and helps to bridge the gap between academic studies of integrated resorts and practical applications of those studies.
The event was emceed by Andrew W Scott, CEO of O Media Ltd., and co-coordinated by Prof Glenn McCartney, associate professor from the FBA and acting programme director of the APAEM. Prof McCartney gave a presentation on the need for more strategic research not only to help address current challenges, but also to predict possible outcomes and scenarios for the Cotai Strip.
The five students who presented their research thesis were Ge Zhu Ying, Si Tou Chi Fai, Cheong Su Man, Aurélie Simone Carré, and Fong Wai Chio. The feedback was very supportive, with a plan to develop the seminar in the future to maintain the link between student research and industry needs and concerns.