Singapore is taking significant steps to deepen its educational collaboration with Thailand, as underscored by its ambassador at the inaugural Singapore Education Fair in Bangkok. Ambassador Catherine Wong highlighted the robust partnership between the two nations, showcasing several key initiatives designed to strengthen educational ties.
Among the ongoing efforts, Wong pointed to the twin schools programme, the Singapore-Thailand Enhanced Partnership (Step) Camp, and various cultural exchange programmes. These initiatives reflect a long-standing commitment to fostering educational exchanges and collaboration. Currently, approximately 70 schools in Singapore maintain active partnerships with Thai educational institutions. Singaporean institutes of higher learning (IHLs) are also engaged in staff and student exchanges, offering internship opportunities and joint research projects.
Wong emphasized the value of these exchanges, noting, “Every year, about 200 interns from Singapore come to Thailand for a six-month placement because Thailand offers a safe and conducive environment for our students to train and learn on the job”. Since 1998, Singapore has been awarding scholarships to outstanding students from Southeast Asia, including Thailand, reinforcing its dedication to nurturing talent across the region.
Singapore's education system, renowned for its global quality, is bolstered by its diverse and welcoming environment. According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, Singapore boasts two universities among the top 20 globally, with the National University of Singapore ranked eighth and Nanyang Technological University fifteenth. Wong is confident that Thai students will thrive in Singapore's educational environment, benefiting from its excellent foundation.
Jaruwat Kiatiwongse, CEO of SG Gateway and the event organizer, shared his perspective on Singapore’s commitment to education. He stated, “Education is the cornerstone of progress, the catalyst for development, and the key to unlocking human potential”.
By strengthening these educational ties, Singapore and Thailand aim to cultivate a mutually advantageous relationship, leveraging their strengths to enhance educational opportunities for students from both countries, reported Bangkok Post.
