Singapore will host the Straits Times Education Forum 2025, titled 'Southeast Asia And Our Shared Future', in collaboration with Singapore Management University (SMU). This forum, slated for March 11 at SMU's Yong Pung How School of Law from 2.15pm to 5.30pm, will delve into how Singapore can leverage the burgeoning economic landscape of Southeast Asia while preparing its workforce for future challenges.
The forum arrives in the context when the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, consisting of 10 member countries who have a population of more than 650 million, is experiencing rapid economic growth. Currently, the region boasts a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of US$3.6 trillion (S$4.9 trillion), a figure projected to surge to US$4.5 trillion by 2030. This growth trajectory is poised to make Southeast Asia the fourth-largest economy in the world, presenting both significant opportunities and complex challenges.
The Republic has emerged as a distinct entity on the global scene, with Singapore topping the list of countries in terms of economic competitiveness and political and operational stability. In addition, Singapore is the third-largest recipient of foreign direct investment. With such a strong economic base, Singapore plays a pivotal role in driving the transfer of knowledge, capital, and technology across the region.
At the forum, the guest of honour, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, will deliver his opening remarks to set the stage for the discussions of how Singapore can continue to maintain its competitive edge while contributing to regional development in education, waste, water, and urban management. The opening session will be followed by a panel discussion, being moderated by SMU Provost-Designate Professor Alan Chan.
The panel will comprise distinguished leaders, including DBS Chief Executive and SMU Chairman Piyush Gupta, Indonesian investor and entrepreneur Aldi Haryopratomo, and Aaron Tan, CEO of online car marketplace Carro. The discussion is expected to center on the skills and qualities required for graduates to thrive in a dynamic regional economy. Experts will discuss themes from cultural intelligence and resilience to adaptability and innovation, underlining the crucial role that universities play in developing these qualities.
The ST Education Forum has covered pertinent topics in its previous editions, such as the changing role of universities, balancing skills and degrees, the green economy, and AI. This year, it focused on Southeast Asia, an important region that aligns with ST's 180th anniversary commitment to community service and regional engagement, Jaime Ho, ST Editor, pointed out. He added that Singapore is well placed to act as a springboard for deeper integration between Southeast Asia and the global economy.
SMU President Lily Kong remarked, "Southeast Asia is a region of immense dynamism, presenting both extraordinary opportunities and complex challenges. Our role is to equip graduates not only with skills but also with the cultural intelligence and resilience necessary for success". Registration for the free forum is now open and will close on March 8 at 6pm.
