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FST showcased its teaching and research achievements on 2024 open day
澳大科技學院2024年開放日展出教研成果反應熱烈

2024-01-14|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

The open day of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) at the University of Macau (UM) concluded successfully today (14th). Through introduction sessions, course presentations, academic consultations, thematic exhibitions, laboratory tours, workshops, booth games, and alumni sharing, the faculty showcased its distinctive features in education, research achievements, social services, and international collaborations. This year also marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of the faculty, attracting the enthusiastic participation of many secondary school students, professionals, parents, and hundreds of alumni.

Parents and students who attended the open day expressed that it provided an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the courses and research achievements of the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Macau, experience university and campus life, and immerse themselves in a diverse campus culture.

During the open day, the faculty organized various activities, including science booth games that demonstrated the faculty’s research and innovation achievements, allowing the general public to experience the charm of science. Laboratory tours provided visitors with in-depth knowledge of the faculty’s research facilities and technological projects. Scientific lectures were conducted to provide participants with insights into various scientific topics. Alumni sharing sessions allowed current students to interact with alumni and learn from their experiences and career development.

FST has been committed to nurturing outstanding talents in science and technology and has achieved remarkable results in scientific research and innovation. The successful organization of the open day not only showcased the academic strength and faculty advantages but also provided an excellent opportunity for potential students to learn about the faculty.

The Faculty sincerely expresses its gratitude to all the participants of the open day and it will continue to enhance research quality and educational standards and cultivate more professionals in the field of science and technology with an innovative spirit and international perspectives.

澳門大學科技學院開放日今 (14日) 圓滿結束，學院透過介紹會、課程講解會、升學諮詢、專題展覽、實驗室導覽、工作坊、攤位遊戲及校友分享等，向社會各界展示科技學院的辦學特色、教研成果、社會服務和國際合作的成果。今年同時也是學院成立35週年，吸引不少中學生、社會菁英、家長及校友數百人參與，反應熱烈。

參與開放日的家長及學生表示，開放日可以進一步了解澳門大學科技學院的課程、教研成果，體驗大學及學院的生活，感受多元校園文化。

開放日期間，學院舉辦了各種活動，包括科學攤位遊戲，展示了學院在科研和創新方面的成就，讓社會大眾感受科技的魅力；實驗室導覽，讓參觀者深入了解學院的研究設施和科技項目；科學講座，提供參與者了解各項科技議題；以及校友分享會，讓現有學生與校友交流經驗和職業發展。

澳門大學科技學院一直致力於培養優秀的科技人才，並在科學研究和創新方面取得了卓越的成果。開放日的成功舉辦不僅展示了學院的學術實力和師資優勢，同時也為潛在的學生提供了一個了解學院的絕佳機會。

對於參與開放日的所有家長、學生和社會各界人士，澳門大學科技學院表示衷心感謝。學院將繼續提高研究品質和教育水準，培養更多具有創新精神和國際視野的科技專業人才。

如需進一步了解澳門大學科技學院的課程和招生資訊，請聯繫學院辦公室8822 4963 或 fst.enquiry@um.edu.mo

The Department of Mathematics arranged many mathematical games for visitors
數學系安排不少數學遊戲予參觀者

DPC arranged experiential activities which were well received by participants
物理及化學系安排體驗活動深受參加者歡迎

FST held an introduction session to explain the development of the Faculty and its courses to the public
學院辦介紹會向大眾講解學院發展及現有課程

EME student explained the operation of the robotic arm to visitors
機電工程系學生向參觀者講解機械臂運作

From engineer to entrepreneur: UM alumnus Ken Cheong charts a path for success
從工程師到傑出企業家 澳大校友張嘉和繪出成功軌跡

2023-12-15|Tags: , , , |

Two decades ago, Ken Cheong was a year one student who just started his studies of electromechanical engineering at the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Macau (UM), with limited knowledge about the field. However, his relentless curiosity led him on a journey of continuous learning, honing his problem-solving skills and logical thinking. He progressed from a part-time drafter to an engineer, and eventually established his own business. Today, Cheong holds the positions of co-founder, chairman, and CEO in a listed engineering company, demonstrating the growth and leadership potential for aspiring engineers.
 
Enduring bonds between professors and students
In 1997, following his graduation from the science stream at Pooi To Middle School in Macao, Cheong set his sights on pursuing higher education in the field of science. He was admitted to the Department of Electromechanical Engineering at UM, which at that time had existed for about seven years and had small class sizes of approximately ten students. Beyond the classroom, the students formed strong bonds, often participating in extracurricular activities together.
 
Even today, Cheong still maintains close connections with his UM classmates and teachers, a testament to the lasting relationships formed during his time at UM. Despite their busy schedules, they try to gather two to three times a year, upholding a cherished tradition. Cheong shares, ‘When I was studying at UM, there were just about a dozen students in my class in the Department of Electromechanical Engineering. I have learned that the class size has now grown to dozens of students, which indicates the increasing popularity of the field. As the number of graduates has grown, alumni from the Department of Electromechanical Engineering have set up a messaging group to connect with one another. Each year, there are new graduates joining the group. Through this platform, senior alumni share the latest industry news and job openings, offering valuable advice and support to our young alumni.’
 
During his university years, Cheong was fortunate to have the guidance of several mentors, with Prof Tam Lap Mou standing out as a pivotal figure. Prof Tam supervised Cheong’s graduation project, leaving a lasting impression on Cheong. ‘Prof Tam consistently addressed my questions with patience and clear explanations. Our relationship has extended well beyond my university days; he often joins me and my former classmates at gatherings. His guidance has been priceless, especially when facing professional challenges. To me, Prof Tam is not just a former teacher; he’s a highly respected elder friend,’ Cheong fondly recalls.
 
From gaining experience to establishing a business
The electromechanical engineering sector in Macao has seen rapid growth over past few decades. Knowledge that was considered cutting-edge twenty years ago is barely applicable in the present day. Reflecting on his learning journey at UM, Cheong says, ‘Back in my university days, our professors emphasised the importance of approaching challenges with the right mindset. They played a crucial role in developing our logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which have proven to be invaluable in my career. It also highlights the high-quality education I received at UM.’
 
During the interview, Cheong often mentioned that he is a lucky person. When he was still a university student, he had the opportunity to gain professional experience working part-time as a drafter at an engineering company. Following his graduation in 2001, he joined a company as an electromechanical system design engineer, where he was responsible for designing plans and other preliminary work. Two years later, he moved to another company, focusing on construction projects. He also gained experience working in the engineering department of a public higher education institution and a private engineering firm. In 2011, with about ten years of experience in electromechanical engineering, he decided to start his own business and co-founded Kento Engineering Co. Ltd. The parent company of Kento—Macao E&M Holding —was established in 2017, and subsequently listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2020.
 
Participation in Macao infrastructure projects 
Cheong has steered his company through a variety of significant projects in Macao, ranging from public housing and entertainment venues to hotels and infrastructure. Among them, the completion of the Guia Hill Pedestrian Tunnel in September 2022 stands out as a remarkable achievement. Linking the Guia Hill, Zape, and Avenida de Horta e Costa, this tunnel has significantly reduced pedestrian travel times, and received positive feedback from local residents. Cheong’s firm played a crucial role in this project; it oversaw vital aspects such as power supply, ventilation system design, and construction. Reflecting on the tunnel’s success, Cheong says, ‘The positive response from the public, evident in the many visitors who went to the tunnel to take photographs, fills us with pride. It is rewarding to see the recognition of our contributions to the city’s landscape.’
 
Learning is the key to entrepreneurship
In the rapidly evolving electromechanical engineering industry, where technology and equipment are continually advancing, Cheong underscores the importance of acquiring new knowledge and skills to stay competitive. He also believes that developing expertise in different fields is crucial for career advancement. Cheong states, ‘General staff members only need to complete the assigned tasks without being concerned about business operations. However, as a manager, I have to be responsible for the company’s financial performance. This leads to a significant increase in my duties and accountability.’
 
Drawing experience from his first forays into business, Cheong notes, ‘Continuous learning is crucial for success in entrepreneurship.’ He admits that he felt overwhelmed when he started his business, as he had to handle everything—from administration to finance—single-handedly. However, the knowledge and experiences he gained from previous positions proved to be beneficial. The operational insight he acquired from former employers and colleagues allowed him to overcome the challenges.
 
‘Zero births one. One creates two.’ Cheong reiterates this motto throughout the interview. Starting everything from scratch, Cheong attributes his success in electromechanical engineering to his diligence and persistence. Operating in the fiercely competitive construction industry in Macao, he recognises the need for his team to work tirelessly to earn client trust. Cheong asserts, ‘To succeed in this industry, it is not enough to just offer fair prices. We must also ensure the high quality of our projects. Only by showing our dedication and sincerity to our clients can we maintain long-term relationships with them and ensure our long-term development.’
 
Outstanding young entrepreneur in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
In September 2023, the 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Outstanding Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony took place simultaneously in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Macao. Organised by the Guangdong-HK-Macao Bay Area Entrepreneurs Union, the event drew the participation of over 1300 entrepreneurs competing for the title. Among the contenders, 100 exceptional young entrepreneurs were recognised and honoured, including 14 from Macao. Seven of these awardees are UM alumni, and Cheong is one of them.
 
Feeling honoured and motivated by this distinction, Cheong also expressed his heartfelt thanks to UM. ‘Aside from the honour, this award also brings more responsibilities. It serves to remind me of the importance of making continuous improvement in my work and setting a positive example for the younger alumni.’ 
 
Source: My UM Issue 129
20多年前，張嘉和開始他在澳門大學科技學院機電工程系的學習之路。當時身為一年級生，他對機電工程所知甚少。然而，憑藉強烈的好奇心，他不斷學習專業知識，逐漸掌握工程師的解決問題能力和邏輯思維，並從一名兼職圖則繪圖員起步，成為機電工程師，再創立公司。今日他已成為一家上市工程公司的聯合創辦人、主席兼行政總裁，為有志創業的工程師樹立榜樣。
 
師生情誼代代相傳
1997年，張嘉和從澳門培道中學理組畢業後，決心深造理科相關領域，選擇澳大機電工程系。該系於1990年成立，初時每班學生僅有十餘人。他們不僅共同上課，還經常聚餐和參加各類課外活動，建立牢固友誼。
 
時至今日，張嘉和仍與當年的同學和老師保持密切聯繫，工作再忙每年也會相聚兩到三次，這份情誼更代代相傳。張嘉和表示：「我在澳大就讀時，機電工程系一班只有十多人，現在一班有幾十人，反映出機電工程專業越來越受歡迎，且隨著畢業生增加，畢業生們建立了一個澳大機電工程系校友的社交群組，每年都有新畢業生持續加入。群組內，學長姐會分享行業最新資訊、實習及招聘機會，幫助後輩獲得行業的重要資訊。」
 
在大學歲月裡，張嘉和有幸得到很多老師循循善誘，當中譚立武教授對他的影響最深。譚教授是他畢業項目的指導老師。懷著感激之情，張嘉和回憶說：「不論何時，當我向譚教授尋求指導時，他總會耐心解惑。即便畢業多年，我們仍保持聯繫，他也時常出席我和同學們的聚會。在我的職業生涯中遇到挑戰時，他也總能提供寶貴意見。對我來說，譚教授不僅是老師，更是一位備受尊敬的長輩。」
 
從積累經驗到開創事業
過去數十年，澳門機電工程行業迅速發展，與科技的進步齊頭並進，20年前所學的知識難以完全用於當前環境。回想在澳大的學習經歷，張嘉和感慨地說：「當時老師深入指導我們以正確態度面對難題，使我得到許多鍛鍊邏輯思維和解決問題能力的機會，這些經驗至今仍對我大有幫助，可見澳大能為學生提供高質素教育。」
 
訪問期間，張嘉和常說自己很幸運。大學時，他已在一家工程公司任兼職圖則繪圖員，積累專業經驗。2001年畢業後，他加入了一家公司，擔任機電系統設計工程師，主要負責設計圖則及其它前期工作。兩年後，他轉投另一家公司，專注於施工領域的工作。他又先後在一所公立高等院校的工程部及一家私人工程公司任職。2011年，憑藉在機電工程行業積累的約10年經驗，他選擇創業，與夥伴創立了建滔工程有限公司。到2017年，建滔工程的母公司濠江機電控股有限公司成立，並於2020年在香港交易所掛牌上市。
 
參與澳門基建項目
張嘉和帶領公司參與過很多項目，包括公共房屋、娛樂場、酒店和基礎設施的建設， 其中在2022年9月竣工的松山行人隧道令他印象深刻。該隧道連接松山、新口岸及高士德大馬路，大大縮短步行距離。在此項目中，張嘉和的公司負責隧道供電、通風等方面的設計與施工工作。他表示：「隧道受到市民廣泛好評，很多人還特地前來拍照。看到我們參與的項目受市民認可，令我感到自豪。」
 
學習：創業路上的關鍵
 
在機電工程技術和設備不斷更新換代的當下，張嘉和認為，要在行業中保持競爭力，就必須學習新知識和技能。如要在職涯中取得更大進步，還要學習其它領域的知識。他坦言：「一般員工只需完成上司分配的任務，不必操心太多企業的營運。但成為管理層後，我要對公司的盈虧負責，使我的責任重了許多。」
「若想成功創業，不斷地學習絕對是關鍵。」談及創業初期的經歷，張嘉和說，他曾獨自處理諸如行政、財務等事務，壓力很大。幸運的是，在之前的工作經驗中，他從僱主和同事身上學到許多寶貴的營運知識。
 
「有零才會有一，有一才會有二。」在訪問中，張嘉和反覆強調這點。他坦言自己白手興家，事業上的成就全憑努力一步步累積，關鍵在於勤奮。面對澳門競爭激烈的建造業，他的團隊必須付出巨大努力才能獲得客戶信任：「要在這個行業成功，僅提供合理價格是不夠的；嚴格確保工程質素同樣重要。我們必須讓客戶真切感受到我們的用心和誠意。他們才會與我們長期合作，生意才得以持續增長。」
 
粵港澳大灣區傑出青年企業家
 
2023年9月，第四屆粵港澳大灣區傑出青年企業家頒獎典禮在香港、深圳、澳門三地同步舉行。這項由粵港澳大灣區企業家聯盟主辦的活動吸引了1300多名參評者，其中100位青年企業家脫穎而出，包括14位來自澳門的獲獎者。在這些獲獎者中，七位是澳大校友，張嘉和便是其中之一。
被選為傑出青年企業家，他感到光榮、深受鼓舞，也不忘對母校表示感謝：「獲得這個獎項，讓我感覺自己肩負了更多責任，我必須不斷提升工作表現，繼續為學弟妹樹立榜樣。」
 
來源：《澳大人》第129期

Cheong’s company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2020
張嘉和公司於2020年在香港交易所掛牌上市

Cheong (left) was awarded the Outstanding Young Entrepreneur title
張嘉和（左）獲選傑出青年企業家

Cheong (first from left), other award-winning UM alumni, and UM management at the 4th Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Outstanding Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony.
第四屆粵港澳大灣區傑出青年企業家頒獎典禮得獎澳大校友與澳大領導合照，左一為張嘉和。

Cheong believes that continuous learning is crucial for success in entrepreneurship
張嘉和認為若想成功創業，不斷地學習是關鍵。

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