SINGAPORE — Education Minister Chan Chun Sing has emphasised the critical need for a cultural shift alongside structural changes in Singapore’s education system. Speaking at a recent event celebrating SG60 and the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) 70th anniversary, he stated that policies alone cannot alleviate academic pressure or redefine success without evolving societal attitudes.
Transitioning Mindsets
Chan highlighted the importance of a united front in education, stating, “Our attitude and behaviour towards educators will determine the quality of people who will join us in educating the next generation.” This comes amid concerns over the treatment of teachers, who he believes should not be seen merely as service providers but as partners in a child’s education.
Respecting Teachers
In an interview with CNA Digital, Chan noted that while most parents support their children’s education, a minority impose unreasonable demands on teachers. “It’s not a service-client mindset,” he remarked, urging parents to understand the balance teachers must maintain. The MOE has pledged to safeguard teachers from such pressures and ensure their well-being.
- Teachers are urged to maintain boundaries, with expectations not to respond to work messages outside school hours except in emergencies.
- An escalation protocol has been established for handling complaints, reinforcing the authority of schools against outside influence.
- Chan reiterated the need for teachers to be backed by MOE, reaffirming his confidence in their capabilities to manage student needs and parental expectations.
Addressing Academic Pressure
While addressing concerns over changing the education system, Chan stated that alleviating stress is not the main objective. Instead, the focus should be on helping students develop confidence and resilience when facing challenges. He explained that navigating obstacles often leads to personal growth.
In his speeches, Chan has outlined the progression of Singapore’s education system, from the essential establishment of bilingualism to more recent initiatives aimed at customising education according to individual strengths and aspirations. He advocates for leveraging technology to provide personalised learning experiences for students in this era of uncertainty.
The Future of Education
Looking ahead, Chan asserts that Singapore faces new global challenges, emphasising the need for an education that fosters cultural understanding and adaptability. This is crucial as Singapore maintains its commitment to bilingualism amidst the evolving socio-cultural landscape.
Maintaining a strong partnership between parents and educators is essential to nurturing future generations. Chan’s vision reflects a combination of respect for educators and a proactive approach to reshaping educational frameworks to meet both current and future demands.