02 February 2022
There is scope for Singapore’s polytechnics as well as the Institute of Technical Education to do more to address trade skills education. These educational institutions should improve flexibility in their post-secondary education curriculum, and develop students to their full potential regardless of their starting points.
After a recently-concluded review process that involved engagements with students, alumni, educators and employers, six recommendations have been made. The six recommendations cover three areas – enhancing students’ career readiness and resilience for the future economy.
The key policy changes include shortening the ITE route to the Higher Nitec certification from four years to three, increasing opportunities for work attachments at both polytechnics and the ITE, and allowing poly students more time to finish their courses. There will also be a new framework for teaching life skills across the board, and more training given to personal tutors at these institutions for better pastoral care.