Building Excellence in Higher Education: Singapore's Experience

Singapore has developed a highly performing education system over the last 30 years through planning, funding, governance, and learning from overseas partners. Arnoud De Meyer's book showcases case studies of the system and highlights the factors contributing to its success. It is of interest to educational specialists, policy-makers, and philanthropists in emerging and mature industrialized countries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Over the past three decades, Singapore has established a higher education system that has garnered widespread admiration and envy among many other countries and regions. How has Singapore managed to develop such a highly performing education system? Was it a meticulously planned initiative, or was it simply a stroke of luck?

Written by Arnoud De Meyer, a renowned management educator and leader in higher education, the book delves into Singapore as an in-depth case study of how to build a system of higher education, particularly a portfolio of highly differentiated and diversified universities. De Meyer collaborated closely with Jovina Ang during the preparation of the manuscript. What sets this book apart is its presentation of several case studies of the emerging system of higher education, derived from extensive interviews with key decision-makers and actors in the system over the past 20 years, including ministers and permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Education, and presidents and chairmen of the six universities.

The success of Singapore's higher education system can be attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, the decision-makers exhibited a clear sense of purpose, with well-defined targets for cohort participation rates, substantial funding for education and research, a disciplined governance system, flexibility in adjusting plans, and a willingness to learn from overseas partners. Secondly, the country's commitment to education and research was unwavering, with substantial investments in infrastructure, faculty development, and research facilities. Thirdly, the governance system was characterized by efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that resources were allocated effectively and that the system remained responsive to changing needs. Finally, Singapore's universities were known for their academic excellence, innovative teaching practices, and strong industry partnerships, which facilitated the transfer of knowledge and skills to the workforce.

In the final chapters of the book, the authors explore the future of the system and offer suggestions for how it can adapt to the changing landscape in Singapore and the world. They emphasize the importance of continuous innovation, collaboration, and adaptability in the face of rapidly evolving global trends.

This unique book on educational strategy holds particular relevance for educational specialists and policy-makers in emerging countries who are embarking on the journey of building a system of higher education. It provides valuable insights and practical strategies that can be adapted to local contexts and help countries achieve educational excellence. Similarly, policy-makers in mature industrialized countries facing challenges in their higher education systems can also benefit from this book by learning from Singapore's experiences and exploring potential solutions to their own challenges.

In conclusion, Singapore's remarkable success in developing a highly performing education system is a testament to the country's commitment to education, innovation, and strategic planning. This book offers valuable insights and practical strategies for building and sustaining a system of higher education that can meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367539160