Programmes in Schools to Nurture Future Leaders amid Times of Uncertainties

Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Education what programmes, such as strategic thinking and problem-solving, can be introduced in the education system so as to prepare the students to become leaders in a time of uncertainty.

Mr Chan Chun Sing: We agree with the Member that students need to have competencies, such as strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, among others, so that they can thrive in the future. These competencies are best developed not in isolation or standalone programmes but through a range of academic and non-academic learning experiences, where the competencies can be applied and honed in context.

For example, in co-curricular activities and student leadership programmes, students grow in resilience, adaptability and problem-solving and communication skills as they work with one another to overcome challenges and accomplish tasks as a team. In classes, such as science lessons, students learn through the scientific inquiry process to challenge assumptions, think critically and make evidence-based inferences. Taken together, these learning experiences will equip students with the necessary values and competencies to grow into effective leaders in times of uncertainty.