Education has always played a key role in the growth and development of Singapore society, particularly in the years following 1965 when it became an independent republic. Now in the 21st century, where the knowledge-based economy is the driver in the global community, education has become more critical in shaping our country’s future. At the same time, through education, every individual can realise his or her full potential to benefit the community, nation, and lead a fulfilling life. By being in Singapore, one gets a chance to be part of an education system that promotes excellence and be part of a progressive, cosmopolitan community.
Singapore has attracted the best and brightest students from all over the world. Today, there are more than 86,000 students from over 120 nationalities studying in Singapore. This melting pot of cultures and peoples offers students an experience that is truly global. Singaporeas competitive economy is also home to more than 7,000 multinational corporations and over 110,000 professional expatriates and provides students with abundant global networking and career opportunities. The Singapore Government will continue to be vigilant in ensuring that Singapore remains safe. The Government has also made it known that extremism originating from religion or race has no place in Singapore.
The standard of living in Singapore is amongst the highest in Asia. Compared to countries in western continents, the cost of living here is relatively low and basic items like food and clothing are very reasonably priced. Singapore has one of the most extensive and efficient public transportation systems in the world. Travelling in the city and suburbs is typically a quick and affordable affair. The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) operates a network of trains serving 51 stations. Trains operate from 5.30am -12.30am daily, every three to eight minutes. A ride on the MRT from Singapore Changi Airport to the city takes less than half an hour. A copy of A Quick Guide to MRT Travel can be obtained from the Station Control Rooms at all MRT stations.
Food is cheaply available around the clock and virtually everywhere. One can choose from a good array of meals at an open-air hawker centre or food court for as low as S$3. Hawker centres are ideal sites to taste authentic local food. Here, one can be introduced to perennial local favourites like laksa, fried kuay teow, satay and chicken rice, and to round of the meal, a tasty “mountain” of sugared ice – ice kachang can be tried out. Most Singaporeans have their personal favourite hawker centres and stalls- some popular picks are Bugis Street, Lau Pa Sat, Chinatown Food Street and Maxwell Road Market. However, there are many hidden gems within the heartland housing estates, some of which are well worth exploring. Catering to a cosmopolitan population, the breadth of cuisine available in Singapore is breath-taking, including Italian, Korean, Thai, African, Indonesian, Vietnamese, all types of Chinese cuisine and more.
Being a multi-racial and multi-religious society, there are many places of worship of different ethnic communities co-existing harmoniously all across the island. Mosques, temples, churches, and synagogues are open to all those seeking meditation and worship. Surrounded by the sea, Singaporeans are by nature, fond of water. At the various beaches, there are plenty of sea sports: swimming, water skiing, sailing and windsurfing, just to name a few. Day and night scuba diving in local and neighbouring waters can also be arranged. Singaporeas sunny weather makes it the ideal venue for sports activities. Football is a national passtime. An empty field is quite likely to have some boys or grown men kicking a ball around. Cycling is another popular activity, with bike rental kiosks available at almost all public parks.
Singapore offers the perfect amalgamation of Eastern and Western culture. It is also only a few hours away from countries in Asia, making it the ideal hub for travelers interested in this region. With excellent connections by air, rail and sea, there are options galore for exploring the exotic East.
The strength of Singapore’s education system lies in its bilingual policy – English with Malay/Mandarin/Tamil and a broad based curriculum where innovation and entrepreneurship command a premium. Individuals acquire the relevant skills and abilities to survive in competitive environments and are equipped for a brighter future.
Singapore may seem like a small dot on the world map, but the island state bustles with attractions and activities. Dining and shopping are two top rated activities of locals. Needless to say, this is reflected in the staggering range of foods and cuisine and also in the proliferation of shops in the city and suburban centres.
Most significantly, Singapore provides the right environment for education. Singapore is a safe, clean and green garden city, which provides a high yet affordable quality of life. With a politically stable environment, multi-cultural society, low crime rate and easily-accessible learning and recreational facilities, Singapore is a great place to live, learn and play. In particular, its geographical proximity and cultural similarities to India make it an ideal home away from home for Indian students.
Launched in 2003, Singapore Education is a multi-government agency initiative to establish and promote Singapore as a premier education hub and help international students make an informed decision on studying in Singapore. This initiative is led by the Singapore Economic Development Board and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, SPRING Singapore, International Enterprise Singapore and the Ministry of Education.