Graduate Employment Survey

Ms Ellen Lee asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry will review the data gathered from the Graduate Employment Survey (GES) conducted by the universities; (b) if there is a conflict of interest when universities conduct their own GES; and (c) whether an independent body, on behalf of MOE, will be in a better position to conduct the annual GES so as to improve the accountability, transparency and credibility of the survey.

Mr Heng Swee Keat: The scope of the Graduate Employment Survey is drawn up by the universities, in consultation with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) each year.

The universities employ rigorous survey methodologies to collect and analyse the data, including selecting reputable and experienced survey companies to assist them in the survey. They are keenly aware of the need to ensure that surveys are conducted rigorously and objectively, to preserve their reputation and credibility.

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MOE and MOM have found the survey results useful in supporting their formulation of policies.

Since 2008, MOE has also published key survey data – based on common definitions and parameters (including response rate and sample size) – on its website. This provides timely and comparable data to help students make informed decisions on university course choices.

MOE will continue to seek improvements in the way such data are collected, analysed and presented.