The University of Saint Joseph (USJ) and the Macanese Youth Association (AJM) hosted a talk titled “Blue Wave Generation: Surfing Without Limits” last Wednesday at the Rui Cunha Foundation (FRC) gallery in the city centre to address the effects of digital screen usage among Macau’s youth, according to a statement from the private Catholic university.
The event, held in collaboration with the private foundation, brought together health experts, educators, and parents to discuss balanced approaches towards screen time management.
Dean of USJ’s Faculty of Health Sciences and Director of the Macao Observatory for Social Development Prof. Jacky Ho Chong Kin (何鍾建), presented research on how blue light from digital devices disrupts sleep patterns and cognitive development. The statement noted his emphasis on the links between excessive screen exposure, melatonin suppression, and increased dementia risks.
The discussion compared global approaches to screen time regulation, including Finland’s shift from “pro-tech” to “protect from tech” policies in education. Prof. Ho also addressed Macau’s plans for a school phone storage arrangement, stating that bans alone are insufficient without broader support systems, the statement said.
According to the statement, key recommendations from the talk included integrating digital literacy into school curricula, aligning policies with family and community efforts, and incorporating youth perspectives.
Last week’s session was moderated by AJM President António Monteiro and Vice-President Jerusa Antunes.
This undated handout photo provided by the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) last night shows (left to right) AJM Vice-President Jerusa Antunes, AJM President António Monteiro, and Dean of USJ’s Faculty of Health Sciences and Director of the Macao Observatory for Social Development Prof. Jacky Ho Chong Kin.
