The first International Conference on Macaology, which is co-organized by the University of Macau (UM), Macao Foundation, Institute of European Studies of Macau, Macau Society of Social Sciences, and Union of Macao Scholars, will open at the UM Library at 9:00 AM from 15 April to 16 April. Attendees will discuss the status quo and future development of Macaology.

 
Macaology is an international and synthetic discipline based on Macao’s abundant historical archives and cultural heritage. In search of the Macao’s uniqueness, Macaology takes its unique culture and history as the object of study. In order to promote the development of Macaology, UM has already established a series of projects about this subject. It is now positioned as a key branch in social sciences and humanity and hopefully, a future “academic brand name” for Macao.
 
Experts and scholars from around the world such as the Chinese Mainland, Portugal, America, Germany, Brazil, Italy, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macao will attend the conference. Attendees will include Prof. Jin Guoping and Prof. António Vasconcelos de Saldanha from Portugal; Prof. Roderich Ptak from Germany; Prof. Hok-lam Chan from America; Prof. Geoffrey C. Gunn from Japan; Prof. Zhuo Xinping, Dr. Geng Sheng, Prof. Huang Hongzhao, Prof. Zhang Xiping and Prof. Qi Yinping from the Chinese Mainland; Prof. Lee Yinghui from Taiwan; Prof. Cheng Wai Ming from Hong Kong; Prof. Hao Yufan, Prof. Zhu Shoutong and Prof. Tang Kaijian from UM; Prof. Ieong Wan Chong, Prof. Tam Sai Po and Prof. Li Changsen from Macao Polytechnic Institute; Mr. Chan Su Weng from the Association of Macau History; and Mr. Choi San from the Cultural Affairs Bureau.
 
More than 80 scholars will discuss a range of issues such as the status quo, academic framework and future development of Macaology. Latest findings in the field will also be presented at the conference. This is a relatively large international conference in recent years to focus on Macaology and will play an important role in promoting the development of Macaology as well as the academic prosperity of Macao.

Conference discussions will revolve around 6 topics: 1. Macao and Macaology, 2. The Academic Characteristics and System of Macaology; 3. Macao in a Global Perspective, 4. The Consolidation of Historical Archives, 5. History and Culture, and 6. Religion and Society. Attendees will also have the opportunity to have interactive discussions with keynote speakers regarding relevant topics. The conference will be conducted in Mandarin and English. All are welcome. For enquiries, please contact Ms. Winnie Lo at 83978130.