SINGAPORE: Deputy Prime Minister Tharman
Shanmugaratnam said the Singapore model of philanthropy is based on
the government, community leaders and active citizens coming
together for a strong and inclusive society.
Mr Tharman was speaking at a book launch
commemorating the 40th anniversary of the passing of education
philanthropist Tan Lark Sye, who founded the former Nanyang
University in Singapore among other schools.
Mr Tharman, who is also the finance minister, said
the government is stepping up investments in education, especially
at the pre-school level, to ensure social mobility.
Giving his personal opinion on education policies, he said the
Singapore system does very well in giving students the skills and
knowledge required for the modern economy.
However, Mr Tharman said he thinks there is a need to create the
time and space for students to build character, to encourage
constant questioning and the taking of intellectual risks.
Mr Tharman said education policies will be decided by the Education
Ministry but in his opinion, there is a need to focus less on exams
because "something has to give."
Whatever is done, he said, there is a need to preserve the basic
tenet of meritocracy to ensure every child has the opportunity to
education regardless of his or her family background.
-CNA/ac