22 May 2018
Education Minister Ong Ye Kung has called for society to put less emphasis on academic results in order to give students more room to find their own niche spaces and develop a love for learning.
He was speaking at his ministry’s addendum to the President’s Address.
In his speech, Mr Ong noted that as Singaporeans still largely identified themselves as belonging to an Asian society, there is a natural tendency to place a large emphasis on grades.
Mr Ong said that Singapore needs to continue with efforts to dial back the over-emphasis on examination results, which can dampen the enthusiasm for learning.
The Ministry of Education will ensure that there are multiple pathways in the education system for students to develop their talents and strengths. Students will also obtain guidance to help them decide on their specialisations and career options.