SINGAPORE - In 2021, the Singapore Green Plan 2030 was released, detailing new sustainability initiatives to confront the existential challenges posed by rising sea levels and climate change.
One of the pillars is the creation of a green economy. As set out in the plan, green growth can potentially create new jobs, revolutionise industries and harness sustainability as a competitive advantage.
Institutes of higher learning (IHLs) have played a key role in Singapore’s growth into one of the world’s most successful economies.
As the Republic transitions to meet its ambitious targets in the Singapore Green Plan 2030, universities and polytechnics must again evolve their curricula, teaching and research to build a talent pipeline for a sustainable and resilient future.
The Straits Times Education Forum on higher education’s role in building a sustainable and resilient future will affirm the pivotal role of IHLs in helping the nation successfully transition to a green economy.
Held in partnership with the Singapore Management University (SMU), the forum will take place at its Yong Pung How School of Law on March 11 at 10am, with Education Minister Chan Chun Sing delivering the keynote address.
In the parliamentary debate on his ministry’s budget in 2022, Mr Chan had emphasised that the capabilities of IHLs and the competencies of their graduates will be the “needle-movers” in meeting Singapore’s sustainability goals.
After his keynote address, Mr Chan will be joined in a panel discussion by Mr Frank Koo, head of Asia, talent and learning solutions at LinkedIn; Mr Ben King, country managing director at Google Singapore; and SMU provost Timothy Clark.
It will be moderated by SMU’s Professor Emeritus of Finance Annie Koh.
Professor Clark said: “We are seeing a huge global impetus towards growth in the green economy.
“From decarbonisation to food supply and security, the green economy holds multi-faceted elements that will impact how businesses operate and how individuals will live, work and play.
“I look forward to a stimulating discussion about how universities such as SMU play a pivotal role in preparing graduates, and learners of all ages, with the green skills and know-how to take on the boundless pathways in this emerging frontier.”
Mr Jaime Ho, editor of The Straits Times, said: “There is no better time than now to bring to the fore the role that education and institutes of higher education will have in developing young minds, and harnessing their ingenuity and passion towards the goals of climate action and sustainability.”
The event is free to attend and registration will close at 6pm on March 8. To register, click here.
