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SINGAPORE: 'Real-world learning' was the buzz phrase for the education sector in Singapore in 2008.
From the Education Ministry's (MOE) review of primary schools to its plans for Singapore's fourth public university, the aim was to grow a generation of students who are confident, creative and keenly attuned to the needs of various industries.
The year kicked off with a new Education Minister at the helm, but Dr Ng Eng Hen is no stranger to the portfolio, having previously served as second minister.
Under his watch, the primary school system will see some major changes. Over the next few years, all primary schools will likely have a single-session structure.
For students, the change would mean more opportunities to learn through play, and for teachers, they will have more flexibility in planning timetables.
"Our children must grow up to be confident young people. They must be secure in their own identity, be able to form their own opinions and communicate well to convince others," said Dr Ng.
But opinions differed on how this should be achieved, with some arguing that a single-session structure may not be suitable for all schools.
There were also mixed reactions to MOE's proposal to recruit only graduate teachers for primary schools by 2015.
Chong Poh Soon, a parent, said: "My concern is more about the aptitude of the teachers. I have seen passionate teachers who are not graduates."
More details on these issues will be known in January when the review committee submits its proposal.
The issue of staff quality also came up earlier this year in discussions over Singapore's fourth public university.
In June, an international advisory panel said the success of the university will hinge on the calibre of its faculty. But to many observers, its emphasis on cross-disciplinary studies and industry interaction is already a winning formula.
The new university will be built next to tech companies at Changi Business Park. It is expected to open by 2015 with an annual enrolment of 2,500, offering courses such as business, engineering and design.
Senior Minister of State for Education Lui Tuck Yew said: "There will be research in the university and again, it will take a different research approach in that it is going to be more industry-focused, more centred around providing solutions to the needs of the university and employers in the short and medium term."
The government's plans to expand its tertiary sector looks right on track, but authorities are not ready to give the green light to a liberal arts college yet.
In the meantime, with the new university on the way, there is plenty to look forward to.
- CNA/so
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