09 August 2017

Singapore students today are faced with a key challenge: Adapting their university education and years of life in the academic world to the changing economy, which is constantly being disrupted by new technology, and new business models.

The lines between careers, industries and geographical boundaries are constantly changing. To stay relevant, graduates must possess skill sets across several disciplines, as well as soft skills like the ability to negotiate, the ability to engage people and the community, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing environments, business values, and cultures.

The expectations of employers have also changed dramatically in recent years. Employers now expect graduates to be work-ready from day one.

Teaching methods and curricula must therefore undergo a dramatic evolution. The classroom should become a venue to apply acquired information to debates and discussions, drive inquisitiveness, as well as develop thinking and analytical prowess.

Educators have to become more innovative and engaging. This calls for the educational institutions and for teachers themselves to be active in knowledge development, and to stay abreast of industry practices and technologies.

Students on their part must develop communication and networking skills to obtain the information they need, and be able and willing to employ their own analysis, judgment and moral compass to make the right decisions. They should be open-minded, embrace constant change, and adopt a philosophy of lifelong learning.