27 May 2019
In 2012, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced that 40 per cent of each cohort of students would find university places by 2020.
Though some raised concerns over a surplus of university graduates in the future, a 40 per cent university participation rate is comparable with many developed countries.
The thirst for university degrees among young people today is based largely on practical considerations. Most students believe it would help them better compete in the job market and gain access to the careers they want.
Indeed, there is merit in further expanding the number of places for applied skills-based degree courses that are in demand, and in disciplines relevant to Singapore’s future needs.
At the same time, the Government is also pushing for Singaporeans to keep learning continuously so that they can reach their fullest potential. Seen through that lens, the expansion of university places should be viewed as a chance for young Singaporeans to deepen their learning and skills to be able to seize new opportunities.