The 1^st Clare Hall, University of Cambridge – University of Macau Forum was held from March 31 to April 1, 2025 at the Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences of the University of Macau (UM). The forum was a great success, bringing together scholars from both institutions to discuss sustainable development and innovative solutions to global challenges. Clare Hall and UM also renewed their cooperation agreement for the Visiting Fellowship Programme at Clare Hall, which aims to promote joint research projects and collaborative innovation in research. The partnership between Clare Hall and UM has been longstanding, with 23 UM scholars as visiting fellows of Clare Hall since 2006.

In his opening remarks for the forum, UM Rector Professor Younghua Song emphasised that interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation are essential for promoting sustainable development amidst global challenges. He also expressed hope that the forum would serve as a bridge for East-West academic dialogue. President Alan Short noted that the forum, as the first interdisciplinary event jointly hosted by Clare Hall and UM, was a continuation of their long-term partnership and reflected the importance of integrating diverse perspectives.

The forum featured two plenary sessions and three parallel sessions, covering a diverse range of topics including sustainable architecture and smart cities, artificial intelligence, engineering, social sciences and education, and Chinese studies. Over 20 scholars from the University of Macau, Cambridge University, and Chongqing University showcased their cutting-edge research.

On 1 April, representatives from Clare Hall visited Lui Che Woo College of UM, where they were warmly welcomed by the College Master, Professor Desmond Lam, who is also a Clare Hall Life Member. There was an opportunity to meet college students and learn about their UM experience, along with touring campus landmarks including the University Gallery and the Wu Yee Sun Library. The visit concluded with an alumni meeting with UM faculty members who were formerly part of the Visiting Fellowship Programme at Clare Hall. President Short was delighted to share recent developments and achievements at Clare Hall, and reconnect with Life Members.

We look forward to following the continued academic exchange and collaboration between Clare Hall and University of Macau for years to come.