The Globalisation of Public Higher Education in Macau

Abstract

After the political transition in 1999, the economic performance of Macau skyrocketed within a short period of time. Globalisation and the changing political, economic and social landscapes have all exerted influence on higher education. The purpose of this paper is to study the impact of globalisation on public higher education in Macau after the change of sovereignty. The method of study is to analyse facts and figures provided by official sources. Five major dimensions are explored. First, the demand for higher education has increased. Second, government expenditure on higher education has multiplied. Third, the amount of resources coming from the private sector has been boosted. Fourth, the degree of internationalisation has been enhanced. Fifth, there is an aspiration from the government to establish a world class university. In many parts of the world, governments have decreased their expenditure on higher education. In Macau the experience is different. The Macau government generates large amounts of revenue from taxation, and therefore, it is able to increase its investment in higher education. However, it is noted that although educational opportunities are plentiful, distribution of resources is seriously uneven.