“Education is one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and improving the quality of life for disadvantaged communities.”
USJ is a private Catholic university in Macao, China, officially recognized by the Macao Government. Established in 1996 by the Catholic University of Portugal and the Diocese of Macao, USJ follows the model of leading European universities and serves as a hub for international collaboration, academic research, and cultural dialogue. Our programs span humanities, social sciences, and technology, offering certificates, diplomas, and degrees from undergraduate to doctoral levels. With over 40 nationalities represented among our students (32% non-Chinese, the highest proportion in Macao) and a globally diverse faculty, USJ takes pride in its multicultural environment.
Our Mission: Education as a Right
Inspired by Catholic social teaching, USJ believes education is a right, not a privilege. We uphold values of integrity, service, equity, and accessibility, ensuring that financial hardship does not hinder talented students from pursuing higher education. For years, we have provided grants to underprivileged students from Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Mozambique, East Timor, Myanmar, Chinese migrants in Macau and other regions, enabling them to study in Macao despite economic challenges.
Our Challenge
Historically, USJ relied on government subsidies and diocesan support. Over the past three years, we have awarded over MOP 21.3 million in aid to 90+ international students. However, recent financial constraints—including pandemic-related enrollment declines, reduced government subsidies, and funding delays—have severely impacted our budget, jeopardizing support for vulnerable students.
Our Solution: “The International Students Solidarity Fund”
To address this crisis, we have launched the USJ International Students Solidarity Fund. This initiative ensures that no student is forced to abandon their education due to financial hardship, reaffirming our commitment to equity and global solidarity.
Target
Our 4-year fundraising goal is MOP 20,000,000.00. This year, we aim to raise MOP 8,000,000 to support around 100 underprivileged international students.
How can you Help?
We invite you to contribute to this fund at a level seeking your help by making a donation that is commensurate with your resources and your gratitude to support the “USJ International Students Solidarity Fund” project, and turn challenges into hope.
