From April 29 to 30, 2025, the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Management (FHTM) and the Library of Macau University of Science and Technology (MUST) jointly organized the Distinguished Scholar Forum of Hospitality and Tourism. The event, themed From Foundational Principles to Innovative Applications: DeepSeek and the evolution of Industry Ecosystems and Mastering Generative AI: Innovation Empowerment Workshop, featured Dr. Liu Yu from Peking University as the keynote speaker. Nearly 300 attendees, including faculty, students, and industry professionals, participated in the lectures, fostering lively discussions and active engagement.
Dean Goh Kok Beng and University Librarian Zhao Xichen Present the Souvenirs to Dr. Liu Yu.
Dr. Liu Yu, a Boya Postdoctoral Fellow at Peking University and an Assistant Researcher at the Laboratory of Learning Sciences in the Graduate Faculty of Education, specializes in teacher education, learning sciences, and AI-enhanced education. She holds a Ph.D. in Education from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and has led multiple key research projects, including Beijing Social Science Fund initiatives and studies funded by the Hong Kong Government Research Grants Council. Honored as a "Tian Jia Bing Young Scholar in Teacher Education Research,” Dr. Liu also contributed to the development of the Peking University edition of the DeepSeek User Manual.
On April 29, FHTM hosted its session in Room N319, where Dr. Liu provided an in-depth introduction to the technical foundations of generative AI, systematically explaining core concepts of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. Using case studies of cutting-edge technologies like DeepSeek, she analyzed AI’s potential for innovation in academic research, educational practices, and industry applications. By showcasing practical examples in hospitality management—including dynamic pricing simulations, customer satisfaction analysis, and operational optimization —Dr. Liu sparked enthusiastic discussions among attendees.
Dean Goh Kok Beng remarked, "This lecture marks the first collaborative academic event between the Faculty and the Library. The content closely aligns with teaching and research needs, offering profound inspiration. Moving forward, we will continue exploring advanced technologies like AI to enhance disciplinary competitiveness."
On April 30, Dr. Liu led the Mastering Generative AI: Innovation Empowerment Workshop in the Library’s Room N406. The workshop focused on practical strategies for integrating AI into academic research, learning, and professional workflows. Dr. Liu demystified generative AI, highlighted its distinctions from analytical AI through case studies, and emphasized its broad applications in content creation, programming, and knowledge management.
During the interactive session, she guided participants in exploring AI tools, demonstrated how DeepSeek can generate code and design interactive tools, and shared AI-assisted literature research methods, including efficient use of platforms such as Metaso and Consensus. The dynamic format encouraged active participation, with Dr. Liu providing detailed answers to audience questions.
Lively Atmosphere During the Workshop
At the conclusion, Ms. Xiao Long, Executive Deputy University Librarian, presented a certificate of appreciation to Dr. Liu on behalf of the organizers.
Executive Deputy University Librarian Xiao Long Presents the Certificate to Dr. Liu Yu.
Both lectures received widespread acclaim for their depth, practical insights, and real-world applications. Participants praised the events for offering cutting-edge perspectives on AI technology while offering actionable guidance for academic and industry professionals. In her closing remarks, Dr. Liu emphasized, "The AI era demands both visionary thinking and grounded action. Academia and industry must collaborate to explore technological frontiers while solving real-world challenges."
Chief Librarian Zhao Xichen added," This event marks a significant step in integrating AI with teaching and research. The Library will continue introducing advanced technological resources and fostering academic exchange platforms to drive disciplinary innovation and cultivate high-level talent." Through this initiative, MUST demonstrated its proactive exploration of AI-powered education and industry innovation, injecting fresh momentum into regional higher education and industrial development.
The successful organization of this event reflects FHTM’s commitment to fostering cross-departmental cooperation with the University Library. Supported by faculty leadership and dedicated administrative staff, the forum laid a strong foundation for future interdisciplinary partnerships.
Group Photo of Attendees at the FHTM Session on April 29
