SJM Resorts Ltd, the Macau operations unit of Hong Kong-listed casino firm SJM Holdings Ltd, and the Macao University of Tourism (UTM) have jointly established the SJM “Forge My Own Journey” Development Programme, according to a Thursday press release.
“This programme introduces an innovative approach to integrated learning and work experience, offering local youths a unique opportunity that combines theoretical education with practical experience, thereby building a talent pipeline and injecting new energy into Macau’s integrated tourism and leisure industry,” stated the casino firm.
A ceremony to sign the agreement and launch the initiative took place last week at the casino group’s Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau.
The programme is said to adopt a “four-year innovative approach to integrated learning and working experience and aims to cultivate specialists in tourism, leisure, and hotel management for Macau”.
During the training period, students will undertake internships in various departments of SJM, including hotel operations, food and drink management, retail management, and events planning.
While they are interns, “students will also receive monthly salaries and benefits, allowing them to gain valuable work experience that provides a solid foundation for their future career development,” said the announcement.
The update said that graduates successfully completing the programme and obtaining a bachelor’s degree in hotel or tourism management from UTM “will also be awarded full tuition fee sponsorship for four years from SJM”.
“Upon graduation, students may choose to continue their careers at SJM and will be presented with opportunities for advancement to junior management positions,” it added.
The inaugural programme will commence in the 2025 academic year, welcoming 70 high school graduates. Since its launch, the programme has received an enthusiastic response.
The release cited Daisy Ho Chiu Fung (seated, right), managing director of SJM, as saying: “This collaboration aims to leverage SJM’s extensive experience in the integrated tourism and leisure industry, alongside UTM’s strong academic foundation, to create a pathway for young professionals.”
She added: “We endeavour to cultivate the next generation of tourism and hospitality professionals with international vision and professional competence.”
Fanny Vong Chuk Kwan (seated, left), rector of UTM, said the programme was “an innovative approach to integrated learning and working experience”.
Ms Vong added: “This programme enables students to swiftly embark on professional paths within the integrated tourism and leisure industry, fostering exceptional talents with both theoretical foundations and practical abilities for Macau.”
