40 人物專訪 • EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 澳大新語 • 2024 UMAGAZINE 30 Serving as a Bridge Between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries ‘The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.’ This adage resonates with Guilherme Júnior’s journey, illustrating how the sweet fruits of education can ripple outward like a butterfly effect. Eighteen years ago, carried by the winds of the friendship between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, Guilherme Júnior arrived in Macao. During his time at the old UM campus, he served as an ambassador of African culture and shared African music with his peers in the East Asia Building. Today, he stands as a bridge between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, making contributions to the common development of higher education on both sides. His visit to UM has not only reinforced the consensus on collaboration between UEM and UM, but has also forged a sustainable and comprehensive international partnership between them. ‘This close relationship will not only benefit the long-term development of both UEM and UM, but will also enhance their respective teaching strengths. It will also provide faculty and students from both universities with more opportunities for academic exchanges and research collaboration, leading to a win-win situation for both sides. I hope that students will cherish their learning experiences and equip themselves to contribute to the common development of China and Portuguese-speaking countries in the future.’ from Africa, Portugal, mainland China, Macao, and FLL professors who are from different parts of the world. These experiences brought the concept of a ‘global village’ to life. He adds, ‘The classroom was like a microcosm of the entire world. Learning alongside students and professors from different places and cultures broadened my worldview and the way I think.’ Guilherme Júnior’s educational journey at UM has instilled in him a strong belief in the importance for students to develop a global perspective and cross-cultural competence. He believes that one of the objectives of higher education is to address challenges faced by humanity as a whole. In today’s world, marked by global warming, artificial intelligence, and digital technology, it has become even more crucial for students to cultivate a strong sense of commitment and make contributions to the development of Africa and the wider world. Therefore, his education philosophy not only emphasises students’ concern for their society and the world, but also stresses the development of integrity and honesty. While academic and research skills are essential, he believes that a strong sense of responsibility, a law-abiding spirit, integrity, and empathy are equally important core values of university education. He reflects, ‘These are some of the lessons I learned at UM: to acquire knowledge, to be compassionate, and to aspire to make the world a better place.’ 蒙德拉內大學代表團到訪澳大 The UEM delegation visits UM 葡文版 Article in Portuguese Artigo em português
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