India and Singapore Strengthen Educational Ties Through Ministerial Meetings
Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan engaged in talks with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Monday, aiming to enhance cooperation in education and research between the two nations. The discussions focused on expanding collaboration in school education, vocational training, and research, anchored around three key pillars: ‘Talent, Resources, and Markets.’
Pradhan underscored India’s view of Singapore as a “trusted knowledge partner,” particularly in fields such as deep technology, startups, and innovation. He acknowledged that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Wong has established a solid foundation for a broader partnership in critical and emerging sectors, aspiring to elevate the bilateral relationship to new heights.
Prior to meeting Wong, Pradhan spoke with Singapore’s Minister for Education, Chan Chun Sing, to explore avenues for enhancing educational collaboration. Their discussions included the internationalization of India’s education system, as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and proposals for overseas internship programs that would give Indian students practical experience with Singaporean companies.
A significant topic of conversation was the prospect of “twinning” schools between India and Singapore, aimed at strengthening cultural ties between students from both countries. Joint research initiatives in areas such as deep technology, advanced materials, and medical innovation were also highlighted as vital areas for cooperation. Minister Pradhan pointed out the potential for partnerships between Singapore’s National Institute of Education and India’s NCERT in curriculum development, pedagogy, and teacher training.
During his visit, Pradhan also met with Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, to further discuss deepening the India-Singapore Knowledge Partnership. In addition, he visited the National University of Singapore (NUS) and held discussions with its President, Prof. Tan Eng Chye, focusing on building academic collaborations between NUS and leading Indian institutions, particularly in healthcare, advanced materials, and sustainability.