MEA launches economy research training program

The Macau Economic Association (MEA) has launched the latest edition of its “Macau Economic Research Talent Training Program.”

Launched for the first time a decade ago, the training program aims to “cultivate the next generation of economic researchers in Macau,” the association said in a statement.

The program aims to help participants strengthen their global analysis of local economic issues, enhance their economic research capabilities and skills, gain a systematic understanding of the dynamics of local economic and social operations, and deepen their understanding of the Macau Special Administrative Region government’s policy direction regarding the economy sector.

The MEA noted that, for this year’s program, a total of 25 participants were selected through a merit-based process for the training sessions, which kicked off late last week.

In his opening remarks, MEA chairman Joey Lao encouraged all participants to apply what they learn in practice and take on responsibilities related to local development and strategies defined by the local and central governments. He also urged them to aim high while remaining down-to-earth, stay eager for knowledge, and maintain a humble and studious attitude on the path toward realizing their ideals. Lastly, he encouraged participants to adopt a problem-oriented and goal-oriented approach and integrate knowledge with action.

Joey Lao noted that the goal of this training program is to take participants beyond the theoretical level of the “Economic Research Program” by encouraging them to apply what they learn and develop a comprehensive understanding.

As part of the launching ceremony of the new edition of the training program, MEA president Lao Pun Lap delivered the inaugural lecture on the theme of “The Framework of Macau’s ‘Third Five-Year’ Plan,” focusing on the background behind the plan’s formulation, its overall development blueprint, the path toward moderate economic diversification, key priorities for the construction of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, and other topics related to Macau’s integration into China’s overall development strategy.