With the return of Macao imminent, activities to welcome the event are surging in some Chinese universities and colleges in Beijing.

In Beijing University, one of the country's most prestigious institutes of higher education, hundreds of students participated in a contest themed with Unity, Patriotism and the Future. The university's activities to welcome Macao's return also include a singing competition and a long-distance race.

People's University of China has hosted a series of lectures since early November to give students further understanding of Macao's history, economy and politics.

Meanwhile, students in the university staged a photography exhibition and aired TV programs this week to highlight Macao's history, current situation and bright future.

Students in Beijing Normal University said that they are looking forward to Macao's return to the motherland which will take place on December 20.

The university students in Beijing have opened a website for Internet users to browse their activities commemorating Macao's return.

On the eve of December 19, thousands of students from universities in Beijing will attend the celebration gala at the Tian'anmen Square to mark the historic event.