Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Why study in Singapore?


Singapore - A new destination for education abroad


With a government that is committed to world-class education as its priority, Singapore is all set to become a 'Global Schoolhouse,' offering a plethora of diverse and distinctive educational options. Driven by its strategic location and unique political culture, Singapore had over the years established itself as South-east Asia'seconomic leader. And since no leader can ignore its education services, the country driven by excellence, developed a broad-based curriculum and global perspective to equip students with the relevant qualification and training that serves as a springboard to a brighter future. The safe, cosmopolitan and comfortable environment provided by the social, cultural, political and economic conditions makes it the perfect destination for 'education abroad.'

All these have been key motivators that have lured the world's top institutions to set up campuses in Singapore. Unique is the word that best captures Singapore; a dynamic city rich in contrast and colour where you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture. A bridge between the East and the West for centuries, Singapore, located in the heart of fascinating Southeast Asia, continues to embrace modernity with its roots firmly placed in tradition.


Hub of education excellence 

The country's education programme proudly boasts of a primary and secondary school system that is competitive, international and encourages young minds to be analytical. However, in the past few decades, the higher education scenario has completely metamorphosed into a system, which offers students an international perspective and the diversity of options. In an environment that is inspiring and conducive to education, Singapore provides high quality of teaching and research. More than 16 leading foreign universities have set up centers of excellence in education and research in Singapore. To this can be added the private education organizations that have also made their presence felt as centers of quality education.


Affordable quality education 

Compared to other developed countries, tuition fees are affordable and the cost of living in Singapore is still significantly lower. With Singapore's tradition of meritocracy, talented students who need financial assistance can find the help they need in form of scholarships, bursaries and study loans. In fact, securing financial assistance is much easier in Singapore than in other countries.

Infrastructure, accessibility and cultural environment

Singapore is well connected via sea, air and telecommunications to all parts of the world. It is fairly close to India and students can visit home during every academic break. Being an Asian country, it is culturally closer to India and so one of the more serious non-academic issues such as food, ceases to pose as a problem.

Global business hub 

Singapore is consistently acknowledged to be a global business hub with its developed infrastructure, political stability and open business policy.

More than 7000 Multinational Corporations (MNC) alongside 1,00,000 small and medium enterprises (SME) have set up their base in Singapore, with many choosing Singapore as their regional hub and launch pad for the dynamic markets of Asia.Singapore offers limitless career and networking possibilities to global citizens keen to apply their talents to the opportunities that can be found there.


Vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle

Singapore may seem like a small dot on the world map, but the island state bustles all over with attractions and activities. The nation's rich multicultural heritage is highlighted through the various ethnic groups (Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians) living together harmoniously. English is spoken all over and understood with ease. Eateries serve food that is both local and international. Hang out spots bustle with activity even on weekdays after office hours. The city state is high on the health quotient and provides multiple options to de-stress with sports activities. The weekends are event-filled for those keen on art and cultural; exhibitions, concerts, theaters, workshops, museums vie to be on your list of 'to do' activities. Singapore's high standard of living is also something that students can be assured of. In a survey reported in The Economist in March 2002,Singapore's quality of life surpassed that of London or New York.


Quality
Singapore Education is a multi-government agency initiative launched by the Singapore Government in 2003 to establish and promote Singapore as a premier education hub and help international students make an informed decision on studying inSingapore. This initiative is led by the Singapore Economic Development Board and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, SPRING Singapore, International Enterprise Singapore and the Ministry of Education.