SINGAPORE OPEN UNIVERSITY (Use of CPF balances for degree courses)

Mr Thomas Thomas asked the Minister for Manpower if he will, in line with the national objective of promoting lifelong learning, allow Central Provident Fund account holders to use their balances to pay for degree courses at the Singapore Open University and for distance learning courses from reputable overseas universities.

The Minister of State for Manpower (Encik Othman bin Haron Eusofe) (for the Minister for Manpower): Sir, several Members of Parliament have in the past raised the issue of allowing CPF for part-time courses, including those offered by the Singapore Open University and distance learning degree courses.

I understand the desire of individuals who wish to have the flexibility to use their CPF savings for part-time courses. Since the special exception was made in 1989 to allow CPF for local full-time tertiary education, we have received many requests to liberalise the CPF Education Scheme to cover overseas education, part-time courses, distance learning, and so on.

The CPF is meant for a member's retirement, housing and medical needs. We have allowed CPF to be used for local full-time tertiary education as a concession to help low income families support their children through local full-time tertiary education. 2.00 pm

Mr Speaker: Order. End of Question time.

[Pursuant to Standing Order No. 21(3), Written Answers to Question Nos. 18-19 and 21-23 on the Order Paper are reproduced in the section, "Oral Answers To Questions Not Reached" (Cols. 2109-2114). Question No. 20 has been postponed to the next sitting of Parliament.]