The Global Exchange Office of City University of Macau has been devoted in promoting international exchange programs to develop students' international vision and multicultural competence. Last year, MOU was signed with the University of Minho, Portugal to co-organize the "Portuguese Language and Culture” exchange program, offering students the opportunity of a four-week study in Portugal.

This year's Portuguese Language and Culture exchange program was held in Braga, Portugal, from July 3 to July 28, 2017, with students from different faculties participated in this program. On July 2, 20 Students from City University of Macau arrived at Braga and received warm welcome by teachers and students of University of Minho. During the welcoming ceremony, Prof. Carla Martins, Pro Rector of the University of Minho, Portugal, introduced the course and development of the university. The students then took a proficiency test and were assigned to the classes with respect to their language level. Students of City University of Macau attended Portuguese classes with international students from all over the world. In addition to classroom lectures, the students also visited Peneda-Gerês, National Park in Northern Portugal, Viana do Castelo and a number of famous attractions.

During the program, the students learned through classroom lectures, study tours, cultural exchanges etc., which provides them with in-depth understanding of the Portuguese traditional culture, customs and social development. At the same time, Ms Esther Kou, Lecturer of City University of Macau and Chaperone of the program, visited a number of academic scholars. Meeting with Prof. Carla Martins, Pro Rector of University of Minho, Portugal, and her colleagues to discuss on various cooperation projects are held. Ms Kou also visited University of Porto, and had a fruitful discussion of potential collaboration with their Vice-Rector, Prof. Maria de Fatima Marinho. The students all remarked that the 26-day exchange program provided them an opportunity of a fruitful experience. It deepened their understanding of Portuguese history and European culture and further enhanced their Portuguese speaking ability as well as self-confidence.