From August 27 to September 1, 2024, teachers and students from the Faculty of Law of MUST traveled to Beijing to participate in the 2024 Peking University - “One Country, Two Systems” Study Camp for Young Law Students from Beijing and Macao. This initiative aims to provide exceptional students from Peking University Law School and the Faculty of Law of MUST with a platform for in-depth understanding and mutual advancement. Participants will explore each other’s social development comprehensively and from multiple perspectives, including politics, economics, culture, and ecology. At the same time, through on-site visits to the current situation at the grassroots level, and inviting well-known domestic scholars and experts from practical departments to hold special lectures and other activities, the study camp provide teachers and students of the two faculties with the opportunity to communicate and analyze the differences in system design between the current situation at the grassroots level and theoretical construction levels in the two places, as well as their respective practical problems, and discuss them together from point to area the differentiated solutions.
The leader of this activity was Assistant Professor Wong Weng Kuok, and eight students from the Faculty of Law participated: Huang Si Hao, Chu Wai Ian, Yang Siting, Sun Song Mou, Xie Wenqian, Chen Kedi, Wang Yanbo, and Hu Shang.
Figure I
Students from the Faculty of Law of MUST took a group photo at Peking University.
With careful arrangements made by the organizers, students from the Faculty of Law attended lectures on the Basic Law and Constitution, delivered by Professor Chen Duanhong and Assistant Professor Zuo Yilu from Peking University Law School. They also visited renowned law firms for practical exchanges. During their stay in Beijing, the teachers and students of the Faculty of Law, accompanied by their counterparts from Peking University, explored various historical and cultural attractions, including Yanyuan Garden, Peking University Law School, the China Court Museum, Imperial College, and Shichahai. This experience not only deepened academic exchanges between the two institutions but also allowed the students to immerse themselves in the local customs and appreciate the Hutong culture of old Beijing.
Figure II
Students from the Faculty of Law of MUST took a group photo at the China Court Museum.
Over the years, the Faculty of Law of Macau University of Science and Technology and the Peking University Law School have engaged in close exchanges and cooperation. This year, for the first time, an exchange project between the two faculties was initiated. This project provided teachers and students with the opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the developmental achievements of Chinese Mainland. While enhancing their connection to the motherland through these interactions, it also strengthened exchanges and cooperation between the two regions in politics, economics, culture, and other areas through in-depth legal education research. These efforts contributed to laying a solid and broad foundation for youth engagement in promoting the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, fostering the moderate diversification of Macao’s economy, supporting Macao's better integration into the overall development of the country, and realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
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Event Highlights
Impressions of the Activities of Students from the Faculty of Law of MUST:
Huang Si Hao (Student in the Bachelor of Laws Program)
I am honored to represent the Faculty of Law of MUST in the “One Country, Two Systems” for Beijing-Macao Young Law Students Study Camp, which aims to promote exchanges between young people from Macao and the Chinese Mainland. During this program, I attended a lecture by Mr. Chen Duanhong on the temporal nature of “One Country, Two Systems” and learned that legal anniversaries can enhance national cohesion. I also participated in a lecture by Mr. Zuo Yilu on the history of the New China Constitution. Additionally, we visited Tian Yuan Law Firm and Merits & Tree Law Office in Beijing, where we engaged with lawyers and learned about their journey from grassroots practitioners to partners. This experience inspired me to work harder in the legal profession in Macao. During my brief stay in Beijing, I also visited Tiananmen Square and witnessed the flag-lowering ceremony, which provided a fitting conclusion to this enriching trip. This study camp deepened my understanding of the legal cultures of both regions.
Chu Wai Ian (Student in the Bachelor of Laws Program)
Thanks to the law course of MUST, I was fortunate to participate in the Beijing-Macau Law Study Camp. This trip to Beijing allowed me to experience the academic rigor of Peking University Law School and engage in stimulating discussions with my classmates. We explored various legal issues, visited law firms, and deepened our understanding of legal practice. The lectures at Peking University expanded my intellectual horizons, and the professor's insights enriched my comprehension of legal theory. During my visit to the Peking University campus, I was captivated by its cultural atmosphere and felt the heritage of Chinese higher education. The visits to law firms provided valuable insights into the workings of legal practice, and my interactions with lawyers were instrumental in shaping my future career plans. Additionally, Beijing’s cultural attractions offered me a richer understanding of its history. The friendly interactions and independent explorations among classmates strengthened our friendships. This trip not only enhanced my academic knowledge but also had a profound impact on my legal studies and career aspirations.
Yang Siting (Student in the Bachelor of Laws Program)
I am very happy to have participated in the Peking University - “One Country, Two Systems” Study Camp for Young Law Students from Beijing and Macao, where I gained a wealth of knowledge. Under the guidance of Professor Chen Tuanhong, I developed a new understanding of the temporal nature of “One Country, Two Systems,” particularly the relationship between Article 31 of the Constitution and the Macao Basic Law. I also came to realize the concepts of “change” and “unchange.” Professor Zuo Yilu provided a comprehensive review of the history of the Constitution of New China, which helped me understand its development process. Additionally, we visited Tianyuan Law Firm and Merits & Tree Law Office in Beijing, where we engaged in in-depth discussions with lawyers and gained fresh insights into career development. Our visits to the China Lawyers Museum and the China Court Museum further enriched our understanding of the evolution of law. This experience also allowed me to explore famous scenic spots in Beijing and gain a deeper appreciation of local customs. I am grateful to the Faculty of Law at the Macau University of Science and Technology for this opportunity, which has clarified my goals regarding “One Country, Two Systems” and my personal development. I am determined to become an outstanding young lawyer in the future.
Sun Song Mou (Student in the Bachelor of Laws Program)
This study at Peking University has benefited me a lot and I feel deeply honored. I gained a deep understanding of the law and inspiration for the future. The professor vividly explained the development of the Constitution and “One Country, Two Systems”, especially the concept of “temporality”, which has provided me with a new perspective on political decision-making. Visiting the law firm and consulting with the lawyers addressed my questions about the legal field and reinforced my vision for a career in law. Additionally, exploring Beijing’s famous landmarks has left me with cherished memories. This experience has strengthened my determination to pursue a career in the legal profession. I am grateful to everyone who has supported me, and I will continue to work diligently.
Xie Wenqian (Student of the Master’s Program in International Economic and Commercial Law)
As a prestigious institution of higher learning, Peking University has always been a dream destination for many students. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to explore the campus and attend lectures by esteemed professors. Professor Chen Duanhong focused on the temporal nature of “One Country, Two Systems” and explained the significance of “decision” in legal changes in a clear and insightful manner, emphasizing the pursuit of long-term development amidst change and stability. Professor Zuo Yilu provided a detailed overview of the history of the New China Constitution and patiently addressed our questions, leaving a lasting impression on me. Following this, we visited Tianyuan Law Firm and Merits & Tree Law Office in Beijing, where we met with senior lawyers to seek career guidance. These experienced professionals shared their invaluable insights, particularly their recommendations regarding foreign-related and non-litigation fields, which greatly benefited me. As a graduate student on the brink of entering the professional world, I feel extremely fortunate. The guidance from my seniors has bolstered my confidence to continue advancing on my path in law.
Chen Kedi (Student in the Juris Master Program)
“Read ten thousand books, travel ten thousand miles.” Peking University - “One Country, Two Systems” Study Camp for Young Law Students from Beijing and Macao has significantly enhanced my theoretical and practical knowledge. The professors’ engaging lectures broadened my understanding of legal principles and deepened my appreciation for the spirit of the law. The thoughtful responses from lawyers at prominent law firms provided me with a clearer perspective on my future career path, allowing my youthful exuberance to mature into a deeper sense of purpose. Under the guidance of Professor Wong Weng Kuok, eight students from various regions participated in lectures, campus tours, and visits to law firms. The interactive teaching methods made time fly by. Through the experiences shared by our predecessors, I have come to understand the profound truths of life and continue to embrace it wholeheartedly. As the writer Lu Yao stated, “Only the passion of first love can lead to a successful career.” As law students at MUST, we must cultivate our passion through practical experiences and strive to honor that love.
Wang Yanbo (Doctoral Student in Philosophy of Law)
During my four-day visit to Beijing, I had an enriching experience of the academic atmosphere at Peking University and engaged with professionals at Tianyuan Law Firm and Merits & Tree Law Office in Beijing, which proved to be highly rewarding. Through lectures delivered by Professors Chen Duanhong and Zuo Yilu, I gained a deeper understanding of the design of “One Country, Two Systems” and the evolution of the constitution. I came to realize that law is not merely a collection of rules; it is also a comprehensive reflection of culture and history. During my visits to Tianyuan, Merits & Tree, and Yingke Law Firms, I witnessed the forefront of China's legal practice. The modern facilities and professional services offered by these firms showcased the vitality and innovation of the legal market. Additionally, we explored Nanluoguxiang and the China Court Museum, experiencing the harmonious blend of history and modernity. The coexistence of tradition and modernity in Beijing merits our contemplation.
Hu Shang (Doctoral Student in Philosophy of Law)
In August 2024, I had the privilege of participating in the “Beijing-Macao Legal Study Camp”, a week of exchange activities at Peking University. This opportunity was invaluable, allowing me to broaden my horizons, enhance my theoretical knowledge, and gain insight into the role of law across various industries. The campus of Peking University is breathtaking, with its secluded stone carvings and natural landscapes adding to its charm. During my study, listening to lectures given by Professor Chen Duanhong and Professor Zuo Yilu allowed me to deeply understand legal theory from different perspectives. Visiting the China Lawyers Museum and the China Court Museum made me realize the importance of law and clarified the meaning of learning. This experience not only allowed me to experience the learning process, but also made me meet many like-minded partners and feel the power of youth. This experience will become a valuable asset in my life, inspiring me to continuously pursue excellence and contribute to society.
