Singapore leaders pay tribute to late Eddie Kuo, founding dean of NTU’s WKWSCI

In a Facebook post, Mr Lee wrote that Prof Kuo “was widely regarded as the founding father of communication studies in Singapore” who built an international reputation as a scholar, teacher and education policymaker.

“Even after stepping down from formal leadership, he continued teaching and nurturing young minds,” he said. 

“His research on language policy, national integration, and the sociology of multilingualism helped us better understand Singapore’s unique multicultural identity,” Mr Lee added. 

“Throughout his career, Prof Kuo served our nation with distinction, as a board member of the National Computer Board, the Singapore Broadcasting Authority and the Media Development Authority,” Mr Lee said, adding that Prof Kuo had also served as a member of the Bioethics Advisory Committee under the Ministry of Health, and on the board of directors of the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism.

“My heartfelt condolences to Prof Kuo’s family and loved ones.”

Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing also reflected on Prof Kuo’s contributions as a “pioneer in communications and media studies, and a distinguished academic who played a key role in shaping the field and mentoring generations of students”.

“Through his work and service, Professor Kuo helped strengthen our understanding of multiculturalism and the importance of cultural roots in a rapidly changing world,” Mr Chan said in a Facebook post.

“His contributions will endure through the many lives he touched and the institutions he helped shape.”