(Special Advertising Feature) — In a groundbreaking step toward transforming the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands into a hub of higher education, technology, and sustainable economic growth, EUCON International University and LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort have officially announced a strategic partnership to launch the visionary University City Initiative on Saipan.
This collaboration marks a milestone in CNMI’s economic and educational transformation — linking world-class academics, tourism, and innovation to create a cleaner, smarter, and more vibrant economy for the islands.
A Vision Beyond Boundaries: Education Meets Excellence
Under this partnership, EUCON International University will expand its Golf Management and Sports Business Program using the exceptional facilities of LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort — one of the most prestigious golf destinations in the Pacific. The program, directed by Daniel Xu, an experienced professional trained in both international sports management and economic education, will connect students with real-world golf operations, tourism, and global sports networks.
EUCON’s golf program aims to attract top students from Taiwan, China, South Korea, and other parts of Asia, in collaboration with leading universities across the region. Students will have the opportunity to earn U.S. Department of Education–recognized degrees while receiving hands-on training in a world-class resort environment.
Beyond academics, EUCON will assist graduates in employment and entrepreneurship, preparing them to enter major golf industries across the United States. “This partnership gives our students both classroom excellence and field experience that can launch global careers,” said Dr. Christian Wei, President of EUCON International University.
LaoLao Bay: A Platform for CNMI’s Economic Future
Ronnie Yeom, president and general manager of LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort, expressed his excitement about the collaboration:
“This is a truly inspiring project. LaoLao Bay is proud to partner with EUCON University to use our resources and facilities for the benefit of CNMI’s economy. Together, we can build something lasting — where education and industry meet.”
The partnership will enable EUCON to use LaoLao Bay’s premium grounds not only for golf and sports programs, but also for international conferences, business exhibitions, and academic seminars — all of which are expected to attract investors, scholars, and visitors from around the world.
Education: The Cleanest Form of Economic Growth
Dr. Wei, recently appointed by the CNMI Gov. David M. Apatang as a member of the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers and chairman of its Labor and Workforce Committee, emphasized the importance of talent development for CNMI’s revival.
“Student projects are the cleanest form of economic development,” Dr. Wei said. “They bring hope, create jobs, inspire innovation, and change the image of CNMI. Through education, we can make CNMI a land of higher learning, high technology, and diverse prosperity.”
He further noted that if CNMI aims to take off economically, it must ensure a steady supply of well-trained, locally available talent. “EUCON and LaoLao Bay’s partnership is just the beginning,” he said.
A Transformative Impact: From Students to Society
EUCON projects to attract 500 international students in the first year and reach 1,500 within three years. This student influx will ignite secondary economic growth across CNMI — supermarkets, restaurants, laundromats, salons, banks, cafés, and other local businesses are expected to flourish.
Moreover, parents, relatives, and friends visiting students will boost tourism and hospitality, while new medical and health-related programs at EUCON will foster medical tourism, drawing visitors seeking care and healing in Saipan’s tranquil environment.
EUCON also plans to host international golf tournaments, business summits, and academic symposiums at LaoLao Bay — including an upcoming “Virtual Currency and Future Investment” Forum. These events will attract investors, scholars, and professionals, positioning CNMI as a center of research, innovation, and global dialogue.
A Shared Dream: Making CNMI Great Again
This partnership establishes a win-win platform: EUCON gains access to world-class facilities for advanced education, while LaoLao Bay plays a central role in revitalizing CNMI’s economy and international reputation. Students and families will be drawn by the allure of a five-star learning environment, where resort-level excellence meets American-accredited education.
“Through collaboration with LaoLao Bay, EUCON can showcase to the world what makes CNMI unique — an island paradise where world-class education and hospitality unite,” said Dr. Wei. “This is not just a partnership — it’s a movement to make CNMI great again.”
About EIU
EUCON International University, located in Saipan, is a fully accredited U.S. higher education institution offering degree programs in Business, Education, Theology, AI, and Sports Management. EUCON is committed to training global leaders grounded in moral integrity, academic excellence, and practical innovation.
About LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort
LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort is one of the premier golf destinations in the Pacific region, renowned for its breathtaking views, world-class courses, and luxury accommodations. The resort plays a vital role in promoting tourism and recreation in CNMI.
A Call to the CNMI Community
Dr. Wei concluded with a heartfelt appeal:
“We invite all sectors of CNMI — government, businesses, families, churches, and individuals — to join us. Together, we can build a brighter future, train the next generation, and restore greatness to our islands.”
