How Singapore Can Stay 'Forever Young'

After reading the article 'How Singapore Can Stay Forever Young', here are some of my views and opinions with reference to the first point, a strong culture of education and learning.

Singapore has always emphasized on the importance of education. This can be seen by the Government implementing ‘Compulsory Education’ in the year 2003. Students need to be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to be productive citizens in a knowledge-based economy.

A strong culture of education and learning not only depends on the students. Parents also play a part in a child’s education. The Government has passed ‘The Compulsory Education' act whereby parents can be fined or sentenced to imprisonment if their child fails to attend school regularly.

Schools in Singapore are well equipped with facilities and trained staff to educate the young minds. Students are given the freedom to choose their path and interest of study after completing their secondary education. Those whom are less fortunate are granted subsidies so that they are not deprived of an education.

Besides having a strong foundation in education, Singaporeans also need to adapt and upgrade their skills to meet the demand of a constantly developing nation. For example, as technology advances, companies are sending their employees to attend subsidised training and courses. An up-to-date workforce means that Singapore will be at the forefront among countries such as Switzerland or cities such as New York where their economy thrives.

When it comes to education, there is no age limit. Therefore, I do agree that a strong culture of education and lifelong learning is vital in keeping Singapore ‘Forever Young’.

From my perspective, Singapore can remain ‘Forever Young’ by having more bilateral ties with developed and thriving countries. Hence, we can learn more or gain insights from them. For example, tourism and gambling has been the primary drivers of the economy in Las Vegas and Macau. In bringing the casino and integrated resort to Singapore, the tourism industry stands to gain the same prosperity.