SINGAPORE – How can we distinguish between different purposes of exams and pay more attention to the ones that count? How can we shift from the fixation on academic grades to life skills and other values that are more important?
These were some questions raised by participants at the Education Ministry’s (MOE) first public engagement session on June 27, to gather views and ideas on education policies.
In closing remarks after the three-hour session held at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, Education Minister Desmond Lee said his ministry will study all suggestions carefully and provide an update when ready.
This series of education conversations started by MOE aims to spark discussions as part of a broader effort to relook the system and curb the education arms race.
The first public engagement session, led by Lee and closed to media, involved about 160 participants comprising parents, educators, students, academics and industry leaders.
They discussed topics like moderating examination stakes, such as the use of the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) for Secondary 1 posting.
Other topics included reviewing the Direct School Admission scheme, strengthening Character and Citizenship Education, and co-curricular activities.
The MOE said its political office holders will contact partners and stakeholders through different public engagement sessions, which will run till 2027.
The public can sign up for in-person sessions on the ministry’s Education Conversations microsite.
Prior to this inaugural public session, the MOE began preliminary conversations in April, with focus group discussions involving educators, parents, students and young working adults.
While some participants in those sessions said they appreciated the way schools have evolved to emphasise holistic development, Lee said others raised concerns about high-stakes exams like the PSLE.
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