• The “Talent Training on the Cultural and Creative Design of Maritime Silk Road” project has been approved by the 2025 China National Art Fund.
• The project is organized by MGM in collaboration with the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology.

Led by MGM and in partnership with the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology (BIFT), the “Talent Training on the Cultural and Creative Design of Maritime Silk Road” project has recently been officially approved by the 2025 China National Art Fund.

Recognized by the national arts and cultural evaluation mechanism, the project aims to advance historical research and innovative transformation related to the Maritime Silk Road while nurturing cross-disciplinary creative talent. It further highlights Macau’s vital role as a cultural bridge between China and the world.

The project’s launch ceremony and introductory session were held in mid-March at MGM Macau’s ballroom, drawing nearly 200 local university and college faculty and students. Organized by MGM and co-organized by BIFT, the program brings together over 20 renowned experts and scholars from academia, the cultural and museum sector, industry and artistic fields at both local and national levels. By leveraging cultural tourism and artistic resources, the team has developed a distinctive curriculum focused on the preservation and innovation of Silk Road heritage.

The program for nationwide recruitment of 30 participants runs from 15 March to 15 April. The selection process includes eligibility screening, résumé evaluation and interviews. Final admission results will be announced in May 2025.

Adopting a comprehensive training model that combines theoretical learning, professional field studies and hands-on design practice, the program enables participants to explore the historical roots of the Silk Road through immersive site visits and intensive training in key Belt and Road cities – Beijing, Quanzhou, Guangzhou and Macau. Macau’s newly inaugurated world-class cultural landmark, the Poly MGM Museum, will serve as the academic training hub.

Course content covers international perspectives, Silk Road history, Maritime Silk Road aesthetics, cultural heritage, creative thinking and traditional craftsmanship, offering participants a holistic and forward-looking educational experience.

The China National Arts Fund is recognized as one of the nation’s three major funds, alongside the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Social Science Fund of China.