Dear Graduates,

Today, I wish to begin with a simple truth: you are all heroes. Each and every one of you has demonstrated the virtue of fortitude—persevering through challenge, uncertainty, and temptation to reach this moment of completion. In choosing to pursue your Postgraduate Diploma in Education, and in seeing it through, you have rejected easier paths in favour of something more demanding and more meaningful. And for that, Macao—and China more broadly—owes you a debt of gratitude. Because it is precisely your kind of commitment that is needed now: to form the minds and characters of a new generation with seriousness, integrity, and care.

Here at USJ, your formation as teachers has not been neutral. It has been grounded in a particular vision of the human person: one in which every child is seen as possessing sacred, inalienable worth; one in which education is not merely about performance or outcomes, but about forming the whole person. You have been entrusted with a craft—one that joins intellect and heart. Yours is the task of working alongside parents to help children grow into who they are truly meant to be: to flourish, to be happy in the deepest sense, to become the people God created them to be, and to have life—and have it in abundance.

You may have been told—or perhaps already knew—that the word “educate” comes from the Latin educere, meaning “to lead out.” Not to indoctrinate, not to pour information into empty vessels, but to draw out curiosity, to guide students towards the joy of learning, and to lead them into wisdom. That is your calling.

Let me share a story that has stayed with me since I first saw it. In 1965—the year I was born—a remarkable film was released: A Man for All Seasons, based on the life of St Thomas More. Written by Robert Bolt, the film tells of a man who stood against a king, at the cost of his life, in defence of conscience and of his faith. It is a film rich with moral depth, full of moments that linger in the mind.

One such moment concerns a young man, Richard Rich, eager for power, wealth, recognition. He pleads with More—then a senior judge and statesman—for help gaining a prestigious post at court. More pauses and says, with real compassion, “Why not be a teacher? You’d be a fine teacher; perhaps a great one.” Rich scoffs, “If I were, who would know it?” More replies, simply: “You; your pupils; your friends; God. Not a bad public, that.”

And so to you, dear graduates: I say again—you will be fine teachers, many of you perhaps great ones. You will know it. Your pupils will know it. Your friends and families will know it. And—most importantly—God will know. Not a bad audience for a life’s work.

Congratulations. You alone can truly measure how much you have grown during your time at USJ. But your graduation today is visible proof that you are changed, matured, formed. We are proud of you—more than words can say. And more than proud, we are grateful: grateful for your generous “yes” to the question Thomas More once posed to Richard Rich, and which now echoes to each of you: Why not be a teacher?

Through the prayers of St Thomas More, may God bless you abundantly. May you be a credit to yourselves, your families, and your students. May you be a blessing in every classroom you enter.

Thank you, and congratulations.

親愛的畢業生們：

今天，我想以一個簡單的事實開場：你們都是英雄。每一位畢業生都展現了堅毅的美德—克服了種種挑戰、不確定性和誘惑，走到了今天的畢業時刻。選擇攻讀學位後教育文憑課程，並堅持完成學業，意味著你們放棄了更容易的選擇，選擇了更具挑戰性和有意義的道路。因為這一點，澳門—以及更廣泛的中國—對你們表示感激。正是你們這種承諾，為當今社會所需：以嚴謹、正直和關懷的態度去塑造新一代的思想和品格。

在聖大，你們的教師培訓並不僅僅是中性的，而是根植於對人的特定理解：每一位孩子都被視為擁有神聖且不可剝奪的價值；教育不僅僅是關於表現或結果，而是關於塑造整個人。你們被賦予了一門結合智慧與心靈的手藝。你們的任務是與家長攜手，幫助孩子們成長為他們真正應該成為的人：讓他們茁壯成長，找到快樂的深層意思，成為天主所創造的那個人、擁有生命—並擁有豐盛的生命。

或許有人告訴過你們，或者你們已經知道，「教育」這個詞源於拉丁文educere，意指「引導出來」。教育並不是灌輸，也不是將知識灌入空虛的容器，而是引發好奇心，引導學生享受學習的樂趣，並引領他們走向智慧。這就是你們的使命。

我想分享一個故事，這個故事自我第一次看到以來一直令我難忘。1965年，也就是我出生的那一年，一部出色的電影上映了：《日月精忠》（又名《良相佐國》、《四季之人》）（英語：A Man for All Seasons），改編自聖人湯瑪斯 ‧ 摩爾（St Thomas More）的生平。這部電影由羅伯特 · 鮑特（Robert Bolt）編寫，講述一個人為了捍衛良知和信仰，不惜犧牲自己的生命來反抗國王。這部電影充滿了道德深度，許多片段令人印象深刻。

其中一幕講述了一位年輕人李察 · 瑞奇，他渴望權力、財富和認可，向當時的資深法官和政治家摩爾請求幫助，以在法院獲得一個崇高的職位。摩爾停頓了一下，帶著真摯的同情說：「為什麼不當一名教師呢？你會是一位優秀的教師，或許還會是一位偉大的教師。」瑞奇不屑一顧地回應：「如果我成為教師，誰會知道呢？」摩爾簡單地回答：「你、你的學生、你的朋友、天主。這可是不錯的觀眾了。」

所以，親愛的畢業生們，我再重申一次：你們將成為優秀的教師，你們中許多人或許會成為偉大的教師。你們會自知，學生們會感知，朋友和家人也會認同。而最重要的是，天主會知道。對於一生的事業來說，這是相當不錯的觀眾。

祝賀你們。只有你們自己才能真正衡量在聖大這段時間的成長。但今天的畢業證明你們已經改變、成熟、成形。我們為你們感到無比驕傲，無以言表。除了驕傲，我們更是感激：感謝你們對湯瑪斯 ‧ 摩爾當年對李察 · 瑞奇提出的問題慷慨地回答了「是」，這個問題如今也回響在你們每一位的心中：為什麼不當一名教師呢？

藉聖湯瑪斯 · 莫爾的轉禱，願天主豐厚地祝福你們。願你們成為自己、家人和學生的驕傲。願你們成為每間教室的祝福。

謝謝你們，恭喜你們。

Caros Graduados,

Hoje, gostaria de começar com uma verdade simples: todos vós sois heróis. Todos vós demonstraram a virtude da coragem – persistindo no desafio, na incerteza e na tentação para chegar a este momento de conclusão. Ao escolherem prosseguir o vosso Diploma de Pós-Graduação em Educação e ao levarem-no até ao fim, vocês rejeitaram caminhos mais fáceis em favor de algo mais exigente e mais significativo. E por isso, Macau – e a China em geral – tem uma dívida de gratidão para convosco. Porque é precisamente o vosso tipo de empenho que é necessário agora: formar as mentes e o carácter de uma nova geração com seriedade, integridade e cuidado.

Aqui na USJ, a vossa formação como professores não foi neutra. Tem sido baseada numa visão particular da pessoa humana: uma visão em que cada criança é vista como possuidora de um valor sagrado e inalienável; uma visão em que a educação não é meramente sobre desempenho ou resultados, mas sobre a formação de toda a pessoa. Foi-vos confiado um ofício – um ofício que une o intelecto e o coração. É vossa a tarefa de trabalhar ao lado dos pais para ajudar as crianças a crescerem e a tornarem-se naquilo que realmente devem ser: florescer, ser felizes no sentido mais profundo, tornar-se nas pessoas que Deus as criou para serem e ter vida – e tê-la em abundância.

Talvez vos tenham dito — ou talvez já soubessem— que a palavra “educar” vem do latim educere, que significa “guiar para fora”. Não se trata de doutrinar, nem de verter informação em recipientes vazios, mas sim de despertar a curiosidade, de guiar os alunos para a alegria do aprender e de os conduzir à sabedoria. Essa é a vossa vocação.

Permitam-me partilhar uma história que me ficou na memória desde que a vi pela primeira vez. Em 1965 — o ano do meu nascimento — foi lançado um filme notável: A Man for All Seasons (Um Homem para Todas as Estações), baseado na vida de São Tomás More. Escrito por Robert Bolt, o filme conta a história de um homem que enfrentou um rei, ao custo da sua vida, em defesa da consciência e da sua fé. É um filme rico em profundidade moral, cheio de momentos que permanecem na mente.

Um desses momentos envolve um jovem, Richard Rich, ávido por poder, riqueza e reconhecimento. Ele implora a More — então juiz sénior e estadista — que o ajude a obter um cargo prestigioso na corte. More pausa e diz, com verdadeira compaixão: “Por que não ser professor? Serias um bom professor; talvez um grande.” Rich escarnece: “Se eu fosse, quem o saberia?” More responde, simplesmente: “Tu; os teus alunos; os teus amigos; Deus. Não é um mau público, esse.”

E a vós, caros graduados, digo novamente — sereis bons professores, muitos de vós talvez grandes. Vós o saberão. Os vossos alunos saberão. Os vossos amigos e famílias saberão. E — o mais importante — Deus saberá. Não é mau público para uma vida de trabalho.

Parabéns. Só vós poderão verdadeiramente medir o quanto cresceram durante o vosso tempo na USJ. Mas a vossa graduação hoje é prova visível de que mudastes, amadurecestes, formastes-vos. Estamos orgulhosos de vós — mais do que as palavras podem expressar. E mais do que orgulhosos, estamos gratos: gratos pelo vosso generoso “sim” à pergunta que Tomás More fez a Richard Rich, e que agora ecoa para cada um de vós: Por que não ser professor?

Pelas orações de São Tomás More, que Deus vos abençoe abundantemente. Que sejam um orgulho para vossos próprios, para as vossas famílias e para os vossos alunos. Que sejam uma bênção em todas as salas de aula que entrarão.

Obrigado e parabéns.

Good morning everyone, my name is Michael Ma and I am from the English section of PGDE secondary education. As we finish up our incredible journey in PGDE, I am honored to be able to stand before this community of future educators, and I would like to express my deepest gratitude to those who have made our experience at USJ an innovative experience. 

To our professors and mentors, especially Dr. Connie Lau and Dr. Ng and others I cannot list here, on behalf of our class, thank you. Not only have you taught us the theories necessary to become outstanding teachers, you have also led by example on what it means to be a successful and inspiring teacher. Your patience in guiding us on our reflection papers and your willingness to stay after class just to ensure we would leave the classroom satisfied and our questions answered showed us what it means to be a teacher. You showed us something beyond just our certificates, but also the purpose and goals of being a teacher. 

To my fellow future teachers, I offer you my gratitude as well. Our class felt like a large family, from discussing our teaching simulations in class or designing an effective lesson plan as a group, your diligence and creativity has been an inspiration both to me and to teachers anywhere. Within these assignments, we pushed each other to be better and to celebrate any small wins whenever we made a breakthrough. To me, the class of 2025 has shown me that being a teacher also means to be a lifelong learner that must shift with the times.

Most importantly of all, in our PGDE journey, our class has really transformed from simply being subject specialists to being educators. We not only learned how to teach our respective subjects, we also rewired our mindsets into always being ready to change for any educational needs, and to assess growth and innovation besides grades in classes. I am confident that this new way of thinking will push us into being better guides for our students.

As we step into classrooms or other professions of our own, we will remember the legacy of this program. We will honor your guidance and teachings by creating a safe space where every student is seen, challenged and valued. Thank you for preparing us not only to teach, but also to innovate and help shape the next generation in Macau. Let’s strive to make a difference together. One student, one lesson, and one community at a time, thank you.

各位上午好，我是學位後中學教育文憑課程（英文）的馬哲仁。在我們完成這段精彩旅程之際，能夠站在這群未來教育工作者面前發言，我感到無比榮幸。在此，我想向所有讓聖若瑟大學成為創新學習殿堂的人們，表達最誠摯的謝意。

首先，我要代表全班感謝我們的教授與導師們，特別是Dr. Lau、Dr. Ng等（恕我無法一一列舉）。您們不僅教授我們成為優秀教師所需的理論知識，更以身作則向我們展示何謂成功且啟發人心的教育家。您們耐心指導我們完成教學反思報告，課後不厭其煩地解答疑問直到我們完全理解，這些都讓我們深刻體會到教師的真諦。您們讓我們看到的，不僅是一紙文憑，更是教育的使命與目標。

我也要感謝我的同學們——未來的教育夥伴們。我們的班級就像一個大家庭，無論是課堂上的教學模擬討論，還是小組教案設計，你們的勤奮與創意不僅激勵著我，也將啟發未來的學生。在這些任務中，我們互相砥礪進步，為每個小小突破共同慶賀。2025屆的你們讓我明白，教師同時必須是終身學習者，與時俱進。

最重要的是，在這段旅程中，我們真正完成了從「學科專家」到「教育者」的蛻變。我們不僅學會如何教授專業科目，更重塑了思維模式——隨時準備因應教育需求調整教學，並懂得評估成績之外的成長與創新。我深信，這種新思維將推動我們成為學生更好的引路人。

當我們踏入各自的教室或其他專業領域時，必將銘記這個課程傳承的精神。我們會通過創造讓每個學生都被看見、被挑戰、被重視的安全學習空間，來實踐您們的教誨。感謝您們不僅培養我們成為教師，更讓我們具備創新能力，共同塑造澳門的下一代。讓我們攜手創造改變，從影響一位學生、完善一堂課、建設一個社區開始。

謝謝大家。

尊敬的校長、各位教授、各位家長、親愛的同學們：

大家早上好！今天能作為學生代表站在這裡發言，我感到無比榮幸與感恩。回望在聖若瑟大學這一年的學習時光，每一堂課、每一次實習、每一位老師的教誨，都在我們心中留下了深刻的印記，為我們的教育之路奠定了堅實的基礎。

首先，衷心感謝USJ教師團隊的悉心教導和無私奉獻！你們用創新的教學方式，為我們打開了教育的新視野。無論是多元教學策略的運用，還是透過小組合作能力，都讓我們親身感受到專業教師的實踐過程。

其中特別感謝陳庭鋒教授。在您的課堂上，我們不僅學習到如何因應中學生特點設計教學計劃，更透過深入探討澳門教育政策與教學法，讓我們具備了更宏觀的教育視野。您特別強調的”師生關係建立”和”家長溝通技巧”，都是我們未來教學中最實用的工具。

同時，在化地瑪聖母女子學校實習期間，我親身體驗了”以愛育人”的教育理念。溫馨的校園氛圍中，師生互動真摯有愛，環保意識更融入日常教學。這段經歷讓我深刻體會到，教育不僅是知識傳授，更是生命影響生命的過程。

我要特別感謝我的實習指導老師鄭蘊雯教授。記得有次我急著引導學生說出「標準答案」，您課後輕聲提醒：「教學不是填空題，要留給學生思考的空間。」這句話讓我明白，真正的教學在於耐心與信任。從教案設計到課堂管理，您總是用細緻的觀察和溫暖的鼓勵，幫助我從慌亂的新手逐漸找到教學節奏。

身為一位中文系的學生，這一年的教育文憑課程讓我獲益良多，讓我們這群來自不同學科的學生，掌握了教育的專業知識。從課程設計到班級管理，從教學策略到評量方法，我們學會將各科知識轉化為有效的教學實踐。實習期間與學生的每一次互動，都讓我們真切領悟到「因材施教」的深意。這些寶貴經驗，將成為我們教學中最實用的指南。

同學們：站在這個新的起點，我們滿懷感恩與期待。感謝所有老師用專業與愛心為我們樹立榜樣，感謝大家這一年的互相幫助，更要感謝我們的父母及家人們，是您們無私的支持讓我們能全心投入學習。未來，我們將秉持教育初心，以熱誠與專業在教學路上堅定前行。

親愛的同學們，願我們帶著這一年的收穫勇敢前行。願我們在教育路上綻放光彩，前程似錦！

謝謝大家！

Respected Dean, Professors, Parents, and Dear Fellow Graduates,

Good morning! It is both an immense honor and a heartfelt privilege to stand here today as a student representative. As I reflect on this past year at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ), every lecture, every internship, and every lesson from our professors has left a profound mark on our hearts, laying a solid foundation for our journey in education.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to the faculties of USJ for their dedicated guidance and selfless devotion. Through your innovative teaching methods, you have broadened our educational horizons. Whether through diverse pedagogical strategies or collaborative group work, you have allowed us to experience firsthand the practical process of professional teaching.

A special thanks to Professor Stephen Chan. In your class, we not only learned how to design teaching plans tailored to secondary school students but also explore Macao’s educational policies and teaching methodologies, equipping us with a more comprehensive perspective on education. Your emphasis on “building teacher-student relationships” and “parent-teacher communication skills” has provided us with invaluable tools for our future teaching careers.

During my internship at Our Lady of Fatima Girls’ School, I personally experienced the educational philosophy of “nurturing with love.” The warm and caring atmosphere, the genuine interactions between teachers and students, and the integration of environmental awareness into daily teaching left a lasting impression on me. This experience taught me that education is not merely the transmission of knowledge but a process of life influencing life.

I would also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my internship mentor, Professor Isabel Tchiang. I remember one instance when I was eager to guide students toward the “correct answer.” After class, you gently reminded me, “Teaching is not about filling in the blanks—it’s about leaving room for students to think.” This simple yet profound insight made me realize that true teaching lies in patience and trust. From lesson planning to classroom management, your keen observations and warm encouragement helped me grow from a nervous beginner into a more confident educator.

As a student from this one-year programme of Post-Graduate Diploma in Education, the study journey (Chinese) has been immensely rewarding. It has equipped us—students from diverse academic backgrounds—with professional knowledge in education. From curriculum design to classroom management, from teaching strategies to assessment methods, we have learned how to transform subject knowledge into effective teaching practices. Every interaction with students during our internships deepened our understanding of “teaching students according to their aptitude.” These invaluable experiences will serve as practical guides in our future teaching careers.

Fellow graduates, standing at this new beginning, we are filled with gratitude and hope. We thank all our professors for setting an example through their professionalism and compassion. We thank each other for the mutual support over this past year. And most importantly, we thank our parents and families—your unconditional support allowed us to devote ourselves wholeheartedly to our studies.

As we move forward, we will uphold our original aspiration of education, advancing with passion and professionalism on our teaching journey.

Dear classmates, may we carry the lessons of this year with courage and determination. May we shine brightly in our educational endeavors and embrace a future full of promise!

Thank you all!

The Most Reverend Bishop Stephen Lee Bun-sang, Bishop of Macao and Grand Chancellor of the University of Saint Joseph,
Distinguished guests, benefactors, colleagues,
Graduands, families, and friends,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to today’s Graduation Ceremony for the conferral of bachelor’s degrees. Today we celebrate the academic achievements of our bachelor’s and graduates—talented, capable individuals who have met the intellectual challenges of their programmes with rigour and resilience. But this ceremony is about more than academic success. It is a recognition that you are now ready to contribute meaningfully to the academic and professional communities—locally, nationally, regionally, and globally.

I remember your arriving at USJ in September 2021. We were deep in COVID. Your final year in high school had been conducted under the shadow of uncertainty and you came to university unsure of what kind of world you would be living in. It’s hard to remember now but your first couple years were marked by class-suspensions for vaccination programmes – the summer of 2022 saw us undergo 21 rounds in 46 days – online classes, inaccessible facilities. Two years on it all seems like a rather unreal memory, but it was real, horribly, frustratingly real. You, however, transcended that experience. You may not recognise it in yourselves but I recognise it and so do the professors and staff of the university: you are a remarkable, resilient, brave, clever, funny and determined group of students. We are immensely pleased, privileged to have had you here at USJ.

But what is it to have been a student at USJ?

At the heart of our identity as a Catholic university is the affirmation of the sacred dignity and inalienable value of every human person. This foundational belief shapes our educational ethos, rooted in the pursuit of truth, goodness, unity, and beauty. These transcendentals, grounded in the Catholic intellectual tradition, are not abstract ideals. They are the guiding stars of our curriculum and the spirit that animates our community. Our purpose is not merely to transmit knowledge, but to form individuals capable of genuine human flourishing, of lives ordered towards fulfilment and, ultimately, beatitude.

Throughout your studies, you have been challenged not only to acquire knowledge but to grow in critical, creative, and ethical thought. Our goal has been to cultivate not only intellects, but character—minds of integrity, and hearts capable of sound judgment and generous action. We believe these qualities are essential in navigating the complexities of today’s world. And more than that, they are essential to building a life of purpose and meaning.

Equally important has been our commitment to fostering collaboration and embracing diversity. In a world ever more interconnected, the ability to work with others across lines of culture, language, and belief is not optional—it is essential. We hope that your time at USJ has prepared you not only to lead, but to listen; not only to contribute, but to cooperate.

Yet, as a Catholic university, our mission does not end with academic formation. We aim to shape men and women of moral responsibility—individuals who embody empathy, compassion, humility, justice, and service. The world is in great need of such leadership. You are now equipped to offer it—and more than equipped, you are called to do so. You carry not only a qualification, but a vocation.

You are drawn from many backgrounds, nationalities, and languages. You leave us ready to serve the common good—whether here in Macao, in China, or as ambassadors of friendship around the world. Though the world you enter is complex, it is also full of possibility. Your education at USJ has prepared you to navigate its challenges and seize its opportunities with clarity, courage, and conscience.

To the families and friends gathered here—and to those joining us online or supporting from afar—on behalf of the entire university community, I extend our deepest thanks. The graduates we honour today have worked hard and grown immensely, but none of them have done so alone. Your encouragement, your patience, and your love have made their achievements possible. Today is your celebration too. And if, along the way, they have sometimes been too tired, too busy, or even too stressed to say thank you—let me say it for them now. Your support has made all the difference.

In conclusion, to our graduands: let the knowledge, values, and friendships you have gained at USJ accompany you in the years ahead. Only you can truly measure the transformation you have undergone—but your graduation today stands as public testimony that you are not the same as when you began. May you go forward with confidence, with humility, and with joy.

Congratulations on your achievement. We look forward—with real hope and expectation—to the impact you will make in the world.

Thank you.

澳門教區主教兼聖若瑟大學校監李斌生主教
尊敬的各位嘉賓、贊助人、同事，
親愛的畢業生、家屬及朋友們：

我非常高興地歡迎大家出席今天的學士學位頒授典禮。今天，我們慶祝學士學位畢業生的學術成就—他們是才華橫溢、能力出衆的年輕人，以嚴謹的態度和堅韌的毅力應對了課程中的挑戰。這場典禮不僅是對學術成功的認可，更是對你們準備好爲學術和專業社群（無論是地方、國家、區域，還是全球）做出有意義貢獻的肯定。

我記得你們在2021年9月來到聖若瑟大學時的情景。那時我們正處於新冠疫情的深淵之中。你們的高中最後一年在不確定的陰影下度過，當你們來到大學時，心中充滿了對未來的疑慮。雖然現在很難回憶，但在最初的幾年裡，你們經歷了因疫苗接種而導致的停課—2022年夏季我們在46天內進行了21輪核酸檢測—在線上課和無法使用校園設施。兩年後的今天，這一切似乎成了虛幻的回憶，但它卻是真實的，令人沮喪而又可怕。然而，你們超越了那段經歷。你們可能未能察覺，但我和大學的教授、工作人員都看到了：你們是一群非凡、堅毅、勇敢、聰慧、幽默且果斷的學生。我們非常高興並感到榮幸，你們來到了聖若瑟大學。

那麼，作爲聖若瑟大學的學生意味着什麼呢？

作爲一所天主教大學，我們的核心在於肯定每個人的神聖尊嚴和不可剝奪的價值。這個基本信念塑造了我們的教育精神，根植於對真、善、合一和美的追求。這些基於天主教知識傳統的超越性標準並非抽象理想，而是指引我們課程的燈塔，是我們社區的精神源泉。我們的目標不僅是傳授知識，而是培養能夠實現真正人類繁榮的個體，使他們的生活有序地朝向滿足，最終獲得幸福。

在你們的學習過程中，面對的挑戰不僅是獲取知識，還包括在批判性、創造性和倫理思想上的成長。我們的目標是培養不僅具備智慧的人，更要塑造品格—正直的思維和能夠做出明智判斷及慷慨行動的心靈。我們深信這些品質對於應對當今複雜的世界至關重要，更是建立有目標、有意義人生的必要條件。

同樣重要的是，我們致力於促進合作與包容多樣性。在這個日益相互聯繫的世界中，能夠跨越文化、語言和信仰的界限與他人合作並非可有可無，而是不可或缺。我們希望你們在聖若瑟大學的學習，讓你們不僅能夠領導，還能傾聽；不僅能貢獻，還能協作。

然而，作爲一所天主教大學，我們的使命並不止於學術培養。我們致力於塑造具備道德責任感的男性和女性——體現同理心、同情心、謙遜、正義和服務精神的個體。世界迫切需要這樣的領導力。你們不僅具備提供這種能力，更被召喚去這樣做。你們不僅具備資格，更肩負着使命。

你們來自不同的背景、國籍和語言，無論是在澳門、中國，還是作爲友好的大使走向世界，你們都已準備好爲共同利益服務。儘管你們進入的世界複雜，但也充滿了機遇。你們在聖若瑟大學接受的教育，使你們能夠以清晰的思維、勇氣和良知迎接挑戰，抓住機會。

對在場的家人和朋友們，以及那些在線上觀看或遠道而來支持我們的人，我謹代表整個大學社區向你們致以最誠摯的感謝。今天我們所表彰的畢業生努力不懈、成長茁壯，但這一切都不是他們單獨完成的。你們的鼓勵、耐心和愛心讓他們得以取得成就。今天同樣是你們的慶典。如果在這段旅程中，他們有時太疲憊、太忙，甚至因壓力而未能向你們表達感謝，那麼請讓我現在代他們對你們說聲謝謝。你們的支持讓一切變得不同。

最後，親愛的畢業生們：願你們在聖若瑟大學所獲得的知識、價值觀和友誼伴隨你們走過未來的歲月。只有你們自己能真正衡量你們的轉變—但你們今天的畢業無疑是對你們成長的有力見證，證明你們已經與剛入學時大相徑庭。願你們滿懷信心、謙遜和喜樂邁向未來。

祝賀你們的成就。我們懷着真誠的希望與期盼，期待你們在世界上產生的影響。

謝謝大家。

Reverendíssimo Bispo Stephen Lee Bun-sang, Bispo de Macau e Grão-Chanceler da Universidade de São José

Distintos convidados, benfeitores, colegas, graduados, familiares e amigos,

É com grande prazer que vos dou as boas-vindas à Cerimónia de Graduação de hoje, dedicada à outorga dos graus de licenciatura. Hoje celebramos as conquistas académicas dos nossos bacharéis e graduados — indivíduos talentosos e capazes que enfrentaram os desafios intelectuais dos seus cursos com rigor e resiliência. Contudo, esta cerimónia representa mais do que o sucesso académico. É o reconhecimento de que estão agora preparados para contribuir de forma significativa para as comunidades académicas e profissionais — local, nacional, regional e globalmente.

Recordo-me da vossa chegada à USJ em setembro de 2021. Estávamos no auge da pandemia de COVID-19. O vosso último ano do ensino secundário decorreu sob a sombra da incerteza e chegaram à universidade sem saber que tipo de mundo iriam encontrar. Hoje é difícil recordar, mas os primeiros anos foram marcados por suspensões de aulas para programas de vacinação — no verão de 2022, tivemos 21 rondas em 46 dias — aulas online, instalações inacessíveis. Dois anos atrás, tudo parece uma memória quase surreal, mas foi real, horrivelmente real e frustrantemente real. Contudo, vocês transcenderam essa experiência. Talvez não o reconheçam em si próprios, mas eu reconheço, e também o fazem os professores e funcionários da universidade: são um grupo notável, resiliente, corajoso, inteligente, divertido e determinado. Sentimo-nos imensamente honrados e privilegiados por vos ter tido na USJ.

Mas o que significa ter sido estudante na USJ?

No cerne da nossa identidade enquanto universidade católica está a afirmação da dignidade sagrada e do valor inalienável de cada pessoa humana. Esta crença fundamental molda o nosso ethos educativo, enraizado na busca da verdade, da bondade, da unidade e da beleza. Estes transcendentais, alicerçados na tradição intelectual católica, não são ideais abstratos. São as estrelas-guia do nosso currículo e o espírito que anima a nossa comunidade. O nosso propósito não é meramente transmitir conhecimento, mas formar indivíduos capazes de um verdadeiro florescimento humano, de vidas orientadas para a realização plena e, em última análise, para a beatitude.

Ao longo dos vossos estudos, foram desafiados não só a adquirir conhecimento, mas a crescer no pensamento crítico, criativo e ético. O nosso objetivo tem sido cultivar não apenas intelectos, mas carácter — mentes íntegras e corações capazes de juízo sensato e ação generosa. Acreditamos que estas qualidades são essenciais para navegar nas complexidades do mundo atual. E mais do que isso, são essenciais para construir uma vida com propósito e significado.

Igualmente importante tem sido o nosso compromisso em fomentar a colaboração e abraçar a diversidade. Num mundo cada vez mais interligado, a capacidade de trabalhar com outros, ultrapassando barreiras culturais, linguísticas e de crença, não é opcional — é essencial. Esperamos que o vosso tempo na USJ vos tenha preparado não só para liderar, mas para escutar; não só para contribuir, mas para cooperar.

No entanto, enquanto universidade católica, a nossa missão não termina na formação académica. Procuramos formar homens e mulheres de responsabilidade moral — indivíduos que encarnem empatia, compaixão, humildade, justiça e serviço. O mundo precisa urgentemente de uma liderança assim. Vocês estão agora preparados para a oferecer — e mais do que preparados, chamados a fazê-lo. Carregam não só uma qualificação, mas uma vocação.

Vocês vêm de diversas origens, nacionalidades e línguas. Partem prontos para servir o bem comum — seja aqui em Macau, na China, ou como embaixadores da amizade pelo mundo fora. Embora o mundo que agora entram seja complexo, está também cheio de possibilidades. A vossa educação na USJ preparou-vos para enfrentar os seus desafios e aproveitar as suas oportunidades com clareza, coragem e consciência.

Às famílias e amigos aqui presentes — e àqueles que nos acompanham online ou apoiam à distância —, em nome de toda a comunidade universitária, apresento o nosso mais profundo agradecimento. Os graduados que hoje homenageamos trabalharam arduamente e cresceram imensamente, mas nenhum o fez sozinho. O vosso incentivo, paciência e amor tornaram estas conquistas possíveis. Hoje é também a vossa celebração. E se, por vezes, ao longo do caminho, eles estiveram demasiado cansados, ocupados ou até stressados para agradecer — deixem que eu o faça agora por eles. O vosso apoio fez toda a diferença.

Para concluir, aos nossos graduandos: que o conhecimento, os valores e as amizades que adquiriram na USJ vos acompanhem nos anos vindouros. Só vós podeis verdadeiramente medir a transformação que experienciastes — mas a vossa graduação hoje é um testemunho público de que já não sois os mesmos de quando começastes. Que sigam em frente com confiança, humildade e alegria.

Parabéns pela vossa conquista. Esperamos, com verdadeira esperança e expectativa, o impacto que terão no mundo.

Muito obrigado.

尊敬的來賓、教授、同學、家人，還有朋友們，

大家好！我係林子艾。今日我好榮幸可以作為傳播與媒體學士的準畢業代表，來為大家致感謝詞。在這段於 USJ 的旅程中，我深深感受到呢個地方有幾包容。我哋慶祝彼此的相似之處和差異，並且互相尊重。

我哋學生背景好多樣化，有啲同學可能在學習語言上遇到困難，但我哋從來冇停過互相幫助。不論係做翻譯，定係單純支持對方，我哋的團結令我好驕傲。呢種互助精神不單止促進咗我哋的學習，仲令我哋建立咗深厚的友誼。每位同學的努力都令我哋的學習環境更加豐富。

在USJ，我第一次寫劇本，第一次做導演，第一次同同學組合拍一套屬於我地嘅劇。在USJ，我第一次學3D Modeling，第一次學Coding，所有嘅第一次都係新嘅嘗試，新嘅體驗。

展望未來，我哋即將開始新的旅程，但我哋要記住，繼續擁抱彼此的差異，釋放潛力，互相支持，追求最好。我特別想提到 USJ 給我哋的創意自由有幾重要。在這個藝術冇界限、創造力無邊界的世界裡，我哋可以在教授的支持下實現唔同的想法。他們讓我哋相信，只要有期望，就一定能做到，鼓勵我哋追尋夢想。

講到現實，我哋都會面臨挑戰。無論係學習同生活間找平衡，定係熬夜趕截止日期，這些都令我哋變得更強大。尤其係創意藝術類的科，完成一個看似簡單的project其實好耗時。但每次挑戰都是學習的機會，教會我哋堅韌，明白到成功唔會輕易到來。

最後，我真心想多謝在座的每一位，因為大家共同塑造咗 USJ 成為一個有趣的學習環境。我哋分享咗無數笑聲、搞笑的時刻，這些珍貴的回憶永遠留喺我地心中。

多謝教授們，我哋對偶爾遲交作業感到抱歉，但你們總係能找到方法應對我哋的困難。多謝你們理解並接受我哋的個性，根據我哋的需要調整學習。你哋的努力使我哋能夠在這個充滿挑戰的環境中成長，你哋不僅係知識的傳遞者，更係我哋人生旅途中的指導者。

多謝家人和朋友，感謝你哋提供無盡的支持，推動我哋成為更好的自己。你們的鼓勵和愛讓我哋能夠堅持，勇敢面對每一個挑戰。你哋的信任係我追求夢想的強大後盾，讓我哋有勇氣面對未知的未來。

未來無論我哋身在何處，希望大家都能保持聯繫，互相激勵，共同成長。讓我哋攜手邁向未來，繼續書寫我哋的故事，創造屬於我哋劇本。

恭喜2025屆畢業生！讓我哋一齊迎接更加燦爛的明天！

Good morning! I am Peony Lam, a representative of the Bachelor’s programme in Communication and Media. It is my greatest honor to stand before you today to deliver this message of gratitude.

My journey at the University of Saint Joseph has shown me the true meaning of inclusion. Here, we don’t just tolerate differences – we celebrate them. We’ve created a community where mutual respect forms the foundation of every interaction.

Our student body represents a beautiful tapestry of backgrounds. Some of us struggled with language barriers, yet we never hesitated to help one another – whether through translation or simple acts of support. This solidarity fills me with immense pride. Our collaborative spirit hasn’t just enhanced our academic experience; it has forged lifelong friendships. Each of you has contributed to making this learning environment truly special.

At USJ, I experienced countless firsts: writing my first screenplay, directing my first short film, and collaborating on creative projects. I discovered 3D modeling, learned coding, and embraced challenges I never imagined attempting. Each new experience expanded my horizons.

As we embark on our next chapter, let’s carry forward the values we’ve learned here. Let’s continue embracing diversity, unlocking potential, and supporting one another. The creative freedom USJ afforded us has been invaluable. In this space where arts know no boundaries, our professors encouraged us to turn even our most unconventional ideas into reality. They taught us that vision paired with perseverance can move mountains.

Of course, our journey wasn’t without challenges. Balancing academics with personal life, those inevitable all-nighters before deadlines – each obstacle strengthened our resilience. In creative fields especially, we learned that even “simple” projects demand extraordinary effort. But every challenge became an opportunity for growth.

To everyone here today: thank you. You’ve made USJ more than just a university – you’ve made it a vibrant community. The laughter we’ve shared, the unforgettable moments – these memories will stay with me forever.

To our professors: we apologize for those late submissions, but your patience never wavered. You adapted to our individual needs, challenged us to grow, and became more than teachers – you have become mentors who shaped not just our education, but our character.

To our families and friends: your unconditional support has been our anchor. Your belief in us has given us courage when we doubt ourselves.

Wherever life takes us next, let’s stay connected. Let’s continue inspiring each other as we write the next chapters of our stories.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! Together, let’s step boldly into our bright future.

Thank you!

The Rector of the University of Saint Joseph, Reverend Professor Stephen Morgan; Distinguished guests, professors, fellow graduates, friends, and families. Good afternoon. 

“Every journey begins with a single step, and every step forward shapes who we become.” Today, I stand here, filled with gratitude and pride, to share this moment with all of you. 

My name is Daniel, a proud graduate of the Bachelor of Education program. It is an honor to represent my fellow graduates and express our heartfelt thanks to the University of Saint Joseph for guiding us through this transformative chapter of our lives. 

Four years ago, I arrived at USJ as a young dreamer, full of curiosity but unsure of the path ahead. I was inspired by my family, especially my parents, who always believed in the power of education to change lives. Growing up, I saw how their encouragement and sacrifices gave me the courage to pursue my passion for teaching. Like many of you, my journey wasn’t without challenges. The sudden shift to online learning during the Covid restrictions tested our resilience. There were moments of doubt, late nights, and endless assignments, but with the support of our professors and peers, we persevered. Those struggles taught me that education is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about growing through adversity and discovering what we’re truly capable of. 

The professors at USJ have been more than educators; they’ve been mentors who saw potential in me even when I couldn’t see it myself. Their patience, experience, and dedication helped me uncover my strengths and develop the skills to inspire others as an educator. They challenged me to think critically, to embrace differences, and to approach teaching with compassion and purpose. Because of them, I’m leaving this university not just with a degree, but with a mission to make a difference in the lives of my future students. 

Beyond academics, USJ gave me opportunities to grow personally. I found my voice through group projects, campus activities, and the friendships I built here. This international community made the world feel smaller, connecting me with people from all walks of life who broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding. I learned that it’s okay to stumble, to question, and to grow through every experience—whether it’s a success or a moment of quiet reflection. 

Today, as I stand here as a graduate, I’m filled with gratitude for the University, my professors, my family, and my friends who never stopped believing in me. To my classmates, thank you for sharing this journey with me—we laughed, we learned, and we grew together. 

As we move forward, let’s carry the lessons we’ve learned at USJ with us: the importance of hope, the power of education, and the courage to shape the future. We’re not just graduates; we’re educators, dreamers, and changemakers ready to leave our mark on the world.

Thank you, University of Saint Joseph, for this incredible journey. To the class of 2025, let’s go out and make a difference—together.

下午好。

「千里之行，始於足下；每一步前行，都在塑造未來的自己。」今天，我懷著感恩的心, 自豪地站在這裡，與各位共享這重要時刻。

我是教育學士畢業生Daniel，很榮幸代表全體畢業生，向聖若瑟大學表達誠摯謝意，感謝學校引領我們完成這段蛻變的成長旅程。

四年前，我懷著憧憬踏入聖大校園，滿心好奇卻對前路迷茫。我的父母始終相信教育能改變人生，他們的鼓勵與付出，讓我有勇氣追尋教學熱忱。與在座許多人一樣，這段旅程並非坦途——疫情期間突然轉為線上教學，考驗著我們的應變能力；那些充滿自我懷疑的夜晚、堆積如山的作業，在師長同儕扶持下，我們終究堅持到底。這些挑戰讓我領悟：教育不僅是獲取知識，更是在逆境中成長，發現自己的無限可能。

聖大的教授們不僅是教育工作者，更是發掘我潛能的引路人。他們的耐心、經驗與奉獻精神，幫助我發現自身優勢，培養成為教育工作者所需的技能。他們教會我批判思考、擁抱多元，並以熱忱與使命感投入教學。正因如此，今天我帶走的不只是一紙文憑，更是改變未來學子生命的使命。

在學術之外，聖大更提供我個人成長的沃土。透過小組報告、校園活動與珍貴友誼，我找到自我價值。這個國際化的大家庭讓世界變得更親近，來自不同背景的同窗拓展了我的視野，讓我明白：無論成功或反思，每一次跌倒、質疑與成長，都是生命的必修課。

此刻站在畢業典禮的舞台上，我要感謝大學領導、師長、家人與始終信任我的朋友們。親愛的同學們，感謝你們共度這段歲月——我們共同歡笑、學習、成長。

展望未來，讓我們銘記在聖大學到的珍貴課題：懷抱希望、相信教育的力量、勇於塑造未來。我們不僅是畢業生，更是準備改變世界的教育家、追夢人與革新者。

感謝聖若瑟大學賜我這段非凡旅程。2025屆的夥伴們，讓我們攜手同行，共創美好未來！

The Most Reverend Bishop Stephen Lee Bun-sang, Bishop of Macao and Grand Chancellor of the University of Saint Joseph,
Distinguished guests, benefactors, colleagues,
Graduands, families, and friends,

It is a particular pleasure to welcome you to today’s Graduation Ceremony for the conferral of master’s and doctoral degrees. This occasion marks the culmination of years of dedicated study, research, and personal growth, and it is a privilege to share in your celebration.

This ceremony honours the academic achievements of a cohort of exceptionally talented and capable graduates from our postgraduate and doctoral programmes. But it is more than a celebration of scholarly accomplishment. It also marks your readiness to contribute with distinction to the academic, professional, and civic communities—locally, nationally, regionally, and globally.

At the heart of the University of Saint Joseph’s identity as a Catholic institution is our commitment to the sacred dignity and intrinsic worth of every person. This foundational belief shapes all we do. It inspires an educational framework rooted in the pursuit of truth, goodness, unity, and beauty—those transcendent properties that, in our tradition, reflect the very nature of God. These are not abstract ideals; they are the standards by which we measure human flourishing, and they are the values to which our intellectual life aspires.

Our academic programmes aim not only to impart knowledge, but to cultivate rigorous, critical, and creative thought, together with personal integrity and character. We seek to form graduates who are not only informed, but also reflective, ethically grounded, and capable of responsible and imaginative leadership. This formation equips you not just for success in a competitive world, but for lives ordered towards truth and justice, beauty and goodness.

Collaboration and openness to difference are likewise central to our educational mission. In an interconnected world, the ability to understand and engage diverse perspectives is essential. You, our graduates, are prepared to work across boundaries—intellectual, cultural, and professional—guided by both competence and compassion.

As a Catholic university, our mission extends beyond academic excellence. We are committed to nurturing morally responsible individuals who embody the values of empathy, compassion, service, self-sacrifice, and justice. In a time of urgent need for ethical leadership, these virtues are not optional—they are essential. You now carry the responsibility to lead with integrity and to serve with conscience.

To our doctoral graduates in particular, I say this: the knowledge you have gained, the research you have undertaken, and the insights you have developed do not belong to you alone. You now bear a responsibility to share the fruits of your study with others, and to live, learn, and lead not only with the gown, but with the mind and heart of a scholar.

Our graduands today come from a rich diversity of backgrounds, languages, and cultures. You leave us equipped to serve your communities—here in Macao, across China, and around the world as friends of Macao and friends of China. We celebrate your accomplishments today with pride, and we recognise that the path ahead of you will not always be simple. The world remains complex, but it is full of possibilities for those who are prepared. And you are prepared.

It is with the greatest admiration and respect that we recognise Professor Ruth Hayhoe today with the conferral of the degree of Doctor of Education, honoris causa. Over the course of seven decades, Professor Hayhoe has made an extraordinary contribution to education as a scholar, institution-builder, diplomat, and public intellectual. Her work has profoundly shaped the global field of comparative and international education, particularly in fostering mutual understanding between China and the wider world. 

Professor Hayhoe’s leadership is marked not only by academic excellence but by institutional vision. As the founding Director of the Tai Po campus of the Hong Kong Institute of Education—now The Education University of Hong Kong—she led with a rare combination of scholarly insight and administrative courage. Under her stewardship, the institution advanced rapidly in its research, professional preparation, and international engagement, becoming a recognised leader in teacher education across Asia. Her secondment as Cultural Attaché to the Canadian Embassy in Beijing further reflects her unique ability to act as a bridge between traditions, communities, and nations. Time and again, Professor Hayhoe has used education not merely as a field of study but as a means of reconciliation and cultural dialogue.

Above all, Professor Hayhoe’s legacy is visible in the generations of scholars, educators, and students she has mentored, many of whom have gone on to shape the field of education themselves. Her writing—on Chinese higher education, cultural exchange, and the philosophy of education—has left an indelible mark on the intellectual landscape. For her service to education, for her unparalleled scholarly contribution, and for her quiet but transformative leadership, we are honoured to welcome Professor Ruth Hayhoe into the academic community of the University of Saint Joseph. We add nothing her her lustre by granting her an honorary doctorate today; it is she who honours us today. Ruth: Thank you.

Many of you are graduating with Master’s degrees or doctorates in Education today. You could hardly do better than take Professor Hayhoe for your model. She is a dedicated educator, whose love for and commitment to education in this part of the world, half a world away from her home is a sign of a sense of mission and vocation that should inspire you.

A word to the families and friends gathered here—whether in person, online, or supporting from afar—I offer the warmest thanks of our entire university community. The achievements we celebrate today would not have been possible without your encouragement, your sacrifices, and your constant support. This is your day, too. On behalf of your graduates, I thank you—and I offer an apology for the times they may have been too tired, too distracted, too stressed, or too absorbed in their work to fully acknowledge all that you have done. Today, I know they share their joy with you, and their gratitude runs deep.

In conclusion, to those of you graduating today: let the values, knowledge, and friendships you have gained here at USJ guide you in the years ahead. Only you can truly measure how much you have changed—but your graduation today is visible testimony that you are not the same as when you began.

May you continue to learn with humility, lead with wisdom, and serve with joy. May you find fulfilment in your work, and may you always take pride in being part of the ongoing legacy of the University of Saint Joseph.

Congratulations on your achievements. We look forward with confidence and hope to the contributions you will make in the world.

Thank you.

澳門教區主教兼聖若瑟大學校監李斌生主教
尊敬的各位嘉賓、贊助人、同事，
親愛的畢業生、家屬及朋友們：

我非常高興地歡迎大家出席今天的碩士及博士學位授予典禮。這一時刻標誌着多年努力學習、研究與個人成長的頂峯，能夠與大家共同慶祝，我深感榮幸。

今天的典禮是為了表彰本校碩士和博士課程畢業生的卓越學術成就。但這不僅是對學術成就的慶祝，它也標誌著你們已準備好為學術、專業和公民群體（無論是地方、國家、區域還是全球）做出卓越的貢獻。

作爲一所天主教院校，聖若瑟大學的核心理念是尊重每個人的神聖尊嚴及其內在價值。這一基本信念塑造了我們的所有工作。它啟發了一個教育架構，這個架構植根於對真、善、合一和美的追求—在我們的傳統中，這些超越性質反映了天主的本質。這些並非抽象的理想；它們是我們衡量人類繁榮的標準，也是我們知識追求的價值。

我們的學術課程不僅傳授知識，更致力於培養嚴謹、批判性與創造性思維，以及個人誠信與品格。我們希望培養出不僅知識淵博，而且能夠反思、具備道德基礎、負責任且富有想象力的領導者。這種教育不僅使你們在競爭激烈的世界中獲得成功，更能引導你們的人生朝向真理與正義、美與善的方向發展。

合作和包容差異同樣是我們教育使命的核心。在這個相互關聯的世界中，理解和接觸不同觀點的能力至關重要。你們這些畢業生將能夠在能力和同情心的引導下，跨越知識、文化和專業的邊界，積極參與各領域的合作。

作爲一所天主教大學，我們的使命超越了學術卓越。我們致力於培養具備道德責任感的個體，體現同理心、同情心、服務、自我犧牲和正義的價值觀。在當前急需道德領導的時代，這些美德並非可有可無，而是不可或缺。你們肩負着以誠信領導和良知服務的責任。

尤其對我們的博士畢業生，我想說：你們所獲得的知識、進行的研究以及發展出的見解，並不只屬於你們自己。你們現在有責任與他人分享你們的研究成果，生活、學習和領導的方式要有學者的態度，更要體現學者的心智與情懷。

今天的畢業生來自不同的背景、語言和文化。你們離開校園時，已經準備好以“澳門之友”和“中國之友”的身份服務澳門、中國及世界各地的社區。我們自豪地慶祝你們的成就，同時也理解未來的道路並不總是一帆風順。世界依然複雜，但對於有準備的人來說，充滿了無限可能。你們已經做好了準備。

今天，我們懷着崇高的敬意，向Ruth Hayhoe教授授予榮譽教育博士學位。七十年來，Hayhoe教授作爲學者、機構建設者、外交家和公共知識分子，爲教育做出了卓越貢獻。她的工作深刻地影響了全球比較和國際教育領域，特別是在促進中國與世界的相互理解方面。

Hayhoe教授的領導能力不僅體現在學術卓越上，更體現在她的機構遠見。作爲香港教育學院（現爲香港教育大學）大埔校區的創校校長，她以卓越的學術洞察力和非凡的行政勇氣推動該校的發展。在她的領導下，學院在研究、專業準備和國際交流方面迅速崛起，成爲亞洲公認的師資教育領導者。她作爲文化隨員被借調至加拿大駐北京大使館，進一步體現了她在傳統、社區和國家之間架起橋樑的獨特能力。一次又一次，Hayhoe 教授不僅視教育為研究領域，還將其作為和解與文化對話的手段。

最重要的是，Hayhoe教授的遺產體現在她所指導過的無數學者、教育者和學生中，他們中的許多人已在教育領域嶄露頭角。她在中國高等教育、文化交流和教育哲學方面的著作，給學術界留下了深遠影響。爲了她對教育的貢獻、無與倫比的學術成就，以及她低調卻具有轉化性的領導力，我們非常榮幸地歡迎Ruth Hayhoe教授加入聖若瑟大學的學術社區。今天頒發給她的榮譽博士學位並非爲她增添光彩，而是她爲我們帶來了榮耀。Ruth，感謝你。

今天許多畢業生將獲得教育學碩士或博士學位。你們可以將Hayhoe教授作爲榜樣。她是一位全心投入教育的教育家，她對這片遠離家鄉的土地的熱愛與奉獻，彰顯了她的使命感與召叫，值得你們深受鼓舞。

我還想對在場的家人和朋友說幾句話，無論你們是親臨現場、在線上，還是遠道而來支持的，我謹代表整個大學社區向你們致以最誠摯的感謝。今天我們所慶祝的成就，離不開你們的鼓勵、犧牲和持續支持。今天也是你們的日子。我謹代表所有畢業生向你們致謝，並爲他們有時因疲憊、分心、壓力或專注工作而未能充分表達對你們的感激而道歉。今天，我相信他們與你們分享喜悅，深深感恩。

最後，對今天的畢業生們：讓你們在聖若瑟大學所獲得的價值觀、知識與友誼指引未來的道路。只有你們能真正衡量自己的改變，但你們今天的畢業證明了你們已與最初的自己截然不同。

願你們繼續以謙遜學習、智慧領導、喜樂服務。願你們在工作中找到滿足感，並始終以成爲聖若瑟大學延續傳承的一部分爲榮。

祝賀你們的成就。我們滿懷信心與希望，期待你們爲世界做出的貢獻。

謝謝大家。

Reverendíssimo Bispo Stephen Lee Bun-sang, Bispo de Macau e Grão-Chanceler da Universidade de São José

Distintos convidados, benfeitores, colegas,

Diplomandos, famílias e amigos,

É com particular prazer que vos dou as boas-vindas à Cerimónia de Diplomação de hoje, para a atribuição dos graus dos mestrados e doutorados. Esta ocasião assinala o culminar de anos de estudo dedicado, investigação e crescimento pessoal, e é um privilégio partilhar convosco esta celebração.

Esta cerimónia honra os feitos académicos de um grupo de diplomados excepcionalmente talentosos e competentes dos nossos programas de pós-graduação e doutoramento. Mas é mais do que uma celebração do mérito académico. Marca também a vossa prontidão para contribuir com distinção para as comunidades académicas, profissionais e cívicas — local, nacional, regional e globalmente.

No cerne da identidade da Universidade de São José, enquanto instituição católica, está o nosso compromisso com a dignidade sagrada e o valor intrínseco de cada pessoa. Esta crença fundamental orienta tudo o que fazemos. Inspira um quadro educativo enraizado na busca da verdade, bondade, unidade e beleza — propriedades transcendentais que, na nossa tradição, refletem a própria natureza de Deus. Estes não são ideais abstratos; são os parâmetros pelos quais medimos o florescimento humano e os valores a que a nossa vida intelectual aspira.

Os nossos programas académicos visam não só transmitir conhecimento, mas também cultivar um pensamento rigoroso, crítico e criativo, juntamente com integridade pessoal e carácter. Procuramos formar diplomados que sejam não apenas informados, mas também reflexivos, eticamente fundamentados e capazes de uma liderança responsável e imaginativa. Esta formação prepara-vos não só para o sucesso num mundo competitivo, mas para vidas orientadas pela verdade e justiça, beleza e bondade.

A colaboração e a abertura à diferença são igualmente centrais à nossa missão educativa. Num mundo interligado, a capacidade de compreender e envolver-se com perspetivas diversas é essencial. Vós, nossos diplomados, estais preparados para trabalhar além das fronteiras — intelectuais, culturais e profissionais — guiados tanto pela competência como pela compaixão.

Como uma universidade católica, a nossa missão vai para além da excelência académica. Estamos comprometidos em formar indivíduos moralmente responsáveis que encarnem os valores da empatia, compaixão, serviço, auto-sacrifício e justiça. Num tempo de urgente necessidade de liderança ética, estas virtudes não são opcionais — são essenciais. Agora carregais a responsabilidade de liderar com integridade e servir com consciência.

Aos nossos diplomados de doutoramento, em particular, digo o seguinte: o conhecimento que adquiriram, a investigação que realizaram e as perceções que desenvolveram não vos pertencem apenas a vós. Agora tendes a responsabilidade de partilhar os frutos do vosso estudo com os outros, e de viver, aprender e liderar não apenas com a beca, mas com a mente e o coração de um académico.

Os nossos diplomandos de hoje provêm de uma rica diversidade de origens, línguas e culturas. Partem daqui preparados para servir as vossas comunidades — aqui em Macau, por toda a China e pelo mundo fora, como amigos de Macau e da China. Celebramos hoje as vossas conquistas com orgulho e reconhecemos que o caminho que vos espera não será sempre simples. O mundo continua complexo, mas está cheio de possibilidades para aqueles que estão preparados. E vocês estão preparados.

É com a maior admiração e respeito que hoje reconhecemos a Professora Ruth Hayhoe com a atribuição do grau de Doutora em Educação, honoris causa. Ao longo de sete décadas, a Professora Hayhoe tem dado uma contribuição extraordinária à educação enquanto académica, construtora de instituições, diplomata e intelectual pública. O seu trabalho moldou profundamente o campo global da educação comparada e internacional, particularmente na promoção do entendimento mútuo entre a China e o mundo.

A liderança da Professora Hayhoe distingue-se não só pela excelência académica, mas também pela visão institucional. Como Diretora fundadora do campus de Tai Po do Hong Kong Institute of Education — atualmente The Education University of Hong Kong — liderou com uma rara combinação de perspicácia académica e coragem administrativa. Sob a sua direção, a instituição progrediu rapidamente na investigação, preparação profissional e envolvimento internacional, tornando-se líder reconhecida na formação de professores em toda a Ásia. A sua comissão como Adida Cultural na Embaixada do Canadá em Pequim reflete ainda a sua capacidade singular de atuar como ponte entre tradições, comunidades e nações. Repetidamente, a Professora Hayhoe usou a educação não apenas como campo de estudo, mas como meio de reconciliação e diálogo cultural.

Acima de tudo, a legada da Professora Hayhoe é visível nas gerações de académicos, educadores e estudantes que orientou, muitos dos quais vieram a moldar o campo da educação. A sua escrita — sobre o ensino superior chinês, intercâmbio cultural e filosofia da educação — deixou uma marca indelével no panorama intelectual. Pelo seu serviço à educação, pela sua contribuição académica incomparável e pela sua liderança discreta mas transformadora, temos a honra de acolher a Professora Ruth Hayhoe na comunidade académica da Universidade de São José. Não acrescentamos nada ao seu brilho ao conceder-lhe hoje um doutoramento honoris causa; é ela que nos honra a nós. Ruth: muito obrigado.

Muitos de vós hoje se diplomam com mestrados ou doutoramentos em Educação. Não poderiam ter melhor modelo do que a Professora Hayhoe. É uma educadora dedicada, cujo amor e compromisso com a educação nesta parte do mundo, a meio caminho do seu país natal, é um sinal de missão e vocação que deve inspirar-vos.

Uma palavra às famílias e amigos aqui presentes — seja em pessoa, online ou a apoiar à distância — ofereço os mais calorosos agradecimentos de toda a comunidade universitária. As conquistas que celebramos hoje não teriam sido possíveis sem o vosso incentivo, os vossos sacrifícios e o vosso apoio constante. Este é também o vosso dia. Em nome dos vossos graduados, agradeço-vos — e peço desculpa pelas vezes em que poderão ter estado cansados, distraídos, stressados ou absorvidos no trabalho, sem reconhecerem plenamente tudo o que fizeram por eles. Hoje, sei que partilham a sua alegria convosco, e a sua gratidão é profunda.

Para concluir, vocês que estão se graduando hojer: que os valores, conhecimentos e amizades que aqui adquiristes na USJ vos guiem nos anos vindouros. Só vós podeis medir verdadeiramente o quanto mudastes — mas a vossa diplomação é testemunho visível de que já não sois os mesmos que quando começaram.

Que continueis a aprender com humildade, a liderar com sabedoria e a servir com alegria. Que encontreis realização no vosso trabalho e que vos orgulheis sempre de fazer parte do legado contínuo da Universidade de São José.

Parabéns pelas vossas conquistas. Olhamos para o futuro com confiança e esperança nas contribuições que fareis no mundo.

Muito obrigado.

Let me begin by saying how deeply honored I am to be conferred an honorary doctorate by the University of St. Joseph which carries forward the story of the Italian Jesuit Matteo Ricci (利玛窦) and his partnership with the Chinese scholar-official Xu Guangqi (徐光啟)。On my first visit to Macao as a young teacher in Hong Kong of the 1960s I saw with my own eyes the monument that inspired the great hymn, “In the Cross of Christ I glory, towering o’er the wrecks of time; All the light of sacred story gathers round its head sublime.” Most people in Europe and North America have no idea that this “wreck of time” is the iconic façade where tourists gather in this historic city, with the tiny cross on its top – the reminder of a Catholic church built in the time of Matteo Ricci.

 Learning the story of Ricci’s decision to leave Italy and travel around Africa, past Goa on India’s West coast and all the way to Macao was such an inspiration for me.  Ricci learned Chinese, established a library and prepared for the long journey over land to the Chinese capital. He stayed in various Chinese cities on the way, making friends with scholars in each place, first learning from them and then sharing the knowledge he brought from Europe. His deep respect for China’s Confucian classics led to his commitment to translating three of the books of Confucius into Latin for European readers, as well as giving them the life story of Confucius in their own language. At the same time, he translated parts of the Catholic Bible into Chinese, and his written Chinese was of such high quality that a book he wrote on Friendship became a Chinese bestseller! His grave in Beijing was long a place of pilgrimage. The same is true of the Church in Shanghai’s Xu Jia Hui district (徐家匯) named after the family of Xu Guangqi, who joined Matteo Ricci in a perfect balancing of the rich spiritual heritages of China and Europe.

 Ricci was not to know that these efforts carried forward a foundation laid in the encounter between the Orthodox Christianity brought to China by Syrian monks almost a thousand years earlier in 635 CE. The stone stele recording their rich mutual interaction with China’s Buddhist leaders had been buried in 845, only to be rediscovered in 1625, years after Ricci’s death in 1610. Nor could he have imagined how his story would inspire the Chinese Catholic scholar Ma Xiangbo  (馬相伯) to found Fudan （復旦） and Furen (輔仁） Universities, bringing together the  spiritual and academic heritage of China’s classical traditions with those of the Western world in ways that made possible a modern Asian model of the university that is truly authentic. 

Thank you for letting me share this brief overview of nearly fourteen hundred years of history. I hope it helps you see the very special meaning of today’s ceremony for me.  The story of your University of St Joseph has been an inspiration that gave me the lifelong call to serving as a “bridge of faith” in whatever ways I could.

首先，我要衷心感謝聖若瑟大學授予我榮譽博士學位。這所延續了意大利耶穌會士利瑪竇與中國士大夫徐光啟精神傳統的學府，令我心生崇敬。1960年代，當我初次以香港年輕教師身份造訪澳門時，曾親眼目睹那座激發著名聖詩《我以基督十架為榮》的遺跡——“巍然萬古十字架，屹立滄桑變遷中；聖經真光耀千秋，環繞十架顯榮光。” 歐美民眾鮮少知曉，這”滄桑變遷”的象徵，正是澳門歷史城區遊客雲集的大三巴牌坊，其頂端小小的十字架，默默訴說著利瑪竇時代興建的天主教堂往事。

利瑪竇決意離開意大利，繞行非洲，經印度西海岸果阿，最終抵達澳門的壯舉，始終激勵著我。他苦學中文，建立圖書館，為前往北京的漫長陸路旅程做準備。沿途每座中國城市都有他駐足的身影，與當地文人結交，先虛心求教，再分享歐洲知識。他對儒家經典的深刻尊崇，促使他將《四書》中的三部譯為拉丁文，並用歐洲語言撰寫孔子傳記。與此同時，他將天主教經文譯成中文，其文筆之優美，使所著《交友論》成為當時暢銷書。他在北京的墓地長年香火不絕，上海徐家匯（以徐光啟家族命名）的天主教堂亦是如此——見證著徐光啟與利瑪竇完美融合中歐精神遺產的偉業。

利瑪竇無從知曉，自己的努力承繼了更古老的傳統：早在公元635年，敘利亞僧侶就將東正教傳入中國。記載他們與中國佛教領袖深度交流的“大秦景教流行中國碑”於845年被掩埋，直至1625年（利瑪竇逝世十五年後）才重見天日。他更無法預見，自己的故事將激勵中國天主教學者馬相伯創辦復旦與輔仁大學，以真正紮根本土的方式，實現中國古典傳統與西方學術精神的有機融合，開創現代亞洲大學的典範。

感謝諸位容我簡述這段橫跨一千四百年的歷史淵源。願這能幫助諸位理解今日典禮於我的非凡意義。聖若瑟大學的精神傳承，始終啟迪我畢生踐行“信仰之橋”的使命。

Distinguished guests, professors, ladies and gentlemen—good afternoon!

My name is Ryan, and I am a doctoral graduate from the Faculty of Business and Law, majoring in Government Studies. It is a great honor to represent the graduates from the postgraduate programs and to express our appreciation to the University of Saint Joseph. 

As a university teacher, I am used to speaking for three hours in class, but today, I have been given just three minutes to say thank you to everyone here who has supported us over the years. And honestly, this may be the toughest assignment of all—trying to put so much gratitude into just a few words.

On behalf of all the graduates, I would like to express our gratitude to the University of Saint Joseph for providing us with a strong platform to pursue academic and personal growth. A special note of appreciation goes to our Rector, Professor Stephen Morgan, and the Deans of all Faculties for their visionary leadership in raising the University’s standards in both research and teaching. We are also grateful to our professors and faculty members for guiding us through this learning journey. On a personal note, I would like to thank my supervisor, Professor Jenny Phillips, for her advice and guidance. I am especially thankful to my mother for her love and care, and to my father whose memory still inspires me every single day. 

Some of us began our studies during the COVID pandemic—a time filled with uncertainty, change, and unexpected challenges. We didn’t know what to expect, but we faced the unknown with resilience. We adapted and found new ways to learn, connect, and support each other here at this University. We stayed focused and kept moving forward, driven by a shared commitment to grow and seek knowledge.

Looking back, those difficult times have passed, but the moments we experienced, the challenges we overcame, the friendships we built, and the lessons we learned, will always stay with us. 

Looking ahead, we carry more than just our degrees. We carry resilience, adaptability, and the confidence to face the future. We have prepared ourselves not only for the familiar paths of yesterday, but also for the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow. These qualities will guide us as we take the next steps in our lives—whether in academia, public service, business, or beyond.

As graduates of the University of Saint Joseph, we are now part of a global community of scholars and professionals. Let us apply the knowledge, skills, and values we have acquired here to serve our communities, contribute to the greater good, and make a meaningful difference in the world around us.

I would like to end with a line from a poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson that has carried me through many moments in my life: “To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.” It is more than just a motto—it is a reminder for us to keep going, no matter what lies ahead. Today, as we enter the next chapter of our lives, let’s keep at it, and remember not to give up.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025—we made it! May we continue to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield. Thank you.

我是商學及法律學院政府研究博士學位的畢業生何雄威。今天能代表全體碩士畢業生向聖若瑟大學表達謝意，我深感榮幸。

作為一名大學教師，我習慣在課堂上講課三小時，但今天只有三分鐘時間向多年來支持我們的每一個人致謝。說實話，這可能是我遇過最困難的任務——要將如此深厚的感激濃縮在短短幾句話中。

我謹代表全體畢業生，感謝聖若瑟大學為我們追求學術與個人成長的路上提供一個堅實的平台。特別感謝校長麥侍文教授及各學院院長，以遠見卓識提升大學的研究與教學水準。我們也衷心感謝各位教授在我們求學路上的引導。個人而言，我要感謝導師劉鈺馨教授的指導，同時特別感謝母親無私的關愛，以及我已故的父親, 感謝他由始至終激勵著我。

我們中許多人是在新冠疫情期間開始學業的——那是一個充滿變數與挑戰的時期。儘管前路未卜，我們仍以韌性面對未知，在這所大學開創新的學習方式、建立聯繫並相互扶持。懷著對知識的共同追求，我們始終保持專注，堅定前行。

回首往昔，艱難時日雖已過去，但那些共同經歷的時刻、攜手克服的挑戰、締結的深厚情誼與收穫的人生智慧，將永遠銘刻於心。

展望未來，我們帶走的不僅是學位，更是淬鍊出的韌性、適應力與面對未來的自信。我們不僅為過往的坦途做好準備，更為當下的挑戰與未來的機遇武裝了自己。這些品質將指引我們在學術、公共服務、商業等領域邁出人生新步伐。

作為聖若瑟大學的畢業生，我們已成全球學者與專業人士社群的一員。讓我們運用在此獲得的知識、技能與價值觀服務社會、促進公益，為世界創造積極改變。

最後，請允許我引用丁尼生勳爵的詩句，這句詩曾陪伴我度過人生許多時刻：「奮鬥、追尋、發現，永不言棄。」這不僅是格言，更是提醒我們無論前路如何都要勇往直前的箴言。今天，當我們開啟人生新篇章之際，讓我們持續奮進，永不言棄。

2025屆的同學們——我們成功了！願我們繼續奮鬥、追尋、發現，永不言棄。謝謝大家。

尊敬的教授們，各位嘉賓、畢業生、親友們、大家好呀！

我是健康科學學院輔導與心理治療碩士課程畢業生張慧麗。今天非常榮幸能夠有這一個機會作為畢業生代表發言。畢業禮，對我們準畢業生來說是一個重要和無比振奮的日子，還包含了不同的意義和祝福。

回想當年學士畢業禮的自己，開心地與同學們慶祝結束艱苦的學生生涯，

同時也正式進入社會的迎新會，我們憧憬著找到相應專業的工作，展示自己的能力，然後向身旁的親友證明我們已經是能賺錢，自由獨立的成年人了。

現在來到第二個畢業禮，碩士畢業，心情和當年學士畢業有點不同了，因為在社會工作了數年，聽到了不同的聲音，漸漸地感到迷失及倦怠，回到聖若瑟大學修讀碩士課程，對我而言，像是一場尋找自己的過程。因為我是護理學學士畢業，所以一邊從事護理的輪更工作，一邊學習英文教學的輔導心理知識，對我來說，是雙重的挑戰，但藉著教授逐步耐心地指導我們從反思察覺自己開始，然後學習到各種年齡群的心理情緒問題，以及應對的療法及同理心溝通方式，也令那個工作倦怠迷失的自己找到情緒困擾的徵結，在與教授及同學們的真誠互動中，釋放了一部份埋藏心裏的壓力，記得教授曾說的一句話：不要總想著做太陽，如果我們能量不夠，我們先做火柴，照亮自己，如果能量多了，我們可以做一根蠟燭，照亮自己及身邊的人，如果有足夠的能量，才做太陽照亮大家。因此藉著畢業禮，衷心地感謝在這段學習歷程上耐心指導，滿滿溫暖鼓勵的教授們及支持我們學業的行政人員們，以及互相幫助，充滿友愛的同學們，同時感謝身邊的親人及朋友滿滿支持，才讓我那個缺乏自信，常常懷疑自己無法畢業的人，走上這個畢業禮，甚至走上這個講台，曾經學士畢業禮座在台下望向的地方，特別感謝Professor Vitor給予我這個寶貴的機會,Professor Vitor, Thank you so much.我知道他推薦我，並不是因為我的成績，而是希望藉由我這個平凡的人，給予大家鼓勵。

正如我在網上看到的一句說話:「迷路是正常的，別太快定義自己」。不要因為成績，因為個性，因為別人的聲音，甚至專業來定義自己，聖若瑟大學不僅教導我們滿滿的專業知識，我們還收獲了重新建構的認知模式及尋找答案的方法，未來，我會帶著學習到的輔導專業知識到日常護理工作上，使我更具同理心地建立護患關係，適當地向患者進行情緒管理的健康衛教，長期病患者不僅要承受身體上的痛楚，自身及其家人更是經歷情緒的低谷，我希望教導他們更多有關情緒察覺及舒緩放鬆的方法，成為他們治療疾病期間的同路人。

而這個畢業禮最大的祝福是希望大家記著這刻發著微光，自信的自己，過往學習的苦與樂已經化成你內心最大的信念，大家完成了曾經以為完成不了的任務，在未來，可能我們繼續會遇到不同的挑戰，愿大家心裏都要浮現自己畢業禮今天開心自信的樣子，然後告訴自己可以同樣完成的。

今天畢業的大家，無論是社會新鮮人，還是社會歷險人士，作為從事任何專業的人，請相信我們可以成為微光，為社會貢獻出一份力量，同時地，希望大家擁有重新開始的勇氣，不要被任何聲音定義自己，愿我們首先照亮自己的人生，然後微光吸引微光，如萬家燈火的夜景，聚集一起才會更璀璨漂亮，而這一份力量必定會是遠超乎我們所想像的。

最後，祝願全體畢業生畢業快樂，前程似錦；祝願所有嘉賓身體健康、喜樂平安；祝願聖若瑟大學蒸蒸日上，再創輝煌！多謝大家。

I am Lillian Cheong, a graduate of the Master’s programme in Counseling and Psychotherapy from the Faculty of Health Sciences. It is an immense honor to stand here today as a representative of the graduating class. For us, this ceremony is not only a significant and exhilarating milestone but also one filled with profound meaning and blessings.

When I attended my bachelor’s graduation ceremony years ago, I celebrated it with my peers, rejoicing at the end of our demanding student life while stepping into the “orientation” of adulthood. Back then, we were eager to land jobs in our fields, prove our capabilities, and show our loved ones that we had become financially independent adults.

Now, at my second graduation—this time for my master’s degree—my feelings are different. After years in the workforce, I began hearing many voices, slowly feeling lost and burnt out. Coming to the University of Saint Joseph for my master’s study has become a journey of rediscovering myself. For me, how to balance working on shifts and studying in English was a double challenge. Yet, through our professors’ patient guidance, we learned to start with self-reflection, understand psychological and emotional issues across age groups, and master therapeutic techniques and empathetic communication. This process helped me uncover the roots of my own emotional struggles. The genuine interactions with professors and classmates allowed me to release my long-buried stress.

I recall the teaching of one professor: “Don’t always feel pressured to be the sun. If your energy is limited, be a matchstick—light up yourself first. If you have a little more, be a candle, illuminating yourself and those nearby. Only when you have enough energy should you aspire to be the sun that shines for all.”

Today, I sincerely thank our professors for their patient instructions and warm encouragement, the administrative staff who supported our studies, and my caring classmates. I am also deeply grateful to my family and friends—without their unwavering support, I, someone who once doubted whether I could even graduate, would never have made it to this stage. A special thanks to Professor Vitor for this precious opportunity. Professor Vitor, thank you so much. I know he didn’t recommend me for my grades but to show that even an ordinary person like me can inspire others.

As I once read online: “It’s okay to feel lost—don’t define yourself too quickly.” Don’t let grades, personality, others’ opinions, or even your profession box you in. USJ has not only equipped us with expertise but also reshaped our cognitive frameworks and problem-solving approaches. Moving forward, I will integrate the counselling skills into my nursing practice, fostering more empathetic patient relationships and providing better emotional management guidance. Patients with chronic illness and their families endure not just physical pain but also emotional lows. I hope I can share with them the self-awareness and relaxation techniques and accompany them in their recovery journey.

The greatest blessing of this graduation is remembering the confident, glowing version of yourselves today. The struggles and joys of learning have forged your inner resilience. You have accomplished what once seemed impossible. In the future, when challenges arise, may today’s radiant self remind you: You can do it again.

Whether you’re entering the workforce or continuing your professional journey, believe that your light—no matter how small—can contribute to society. Have the courage to redefine yourself. First, illuminate your own path; then, let your light attract others’. Like a cityscape of countless lights, together, we shine brighter than we could ever do so alone—far beyond what we imagined possible.

Finally, congratulations to the Class of 2025! May your future be bright and boundless. To our guests, may you enjoy health, joy, and peace. To the University of Saint Joseph—may it continue to flourish and achieve new heights! Thank you.