Principles and General Objectives of Education

In general terms, the aim of the education system in Singapore is to bring out the best in all children, provide them with knowledge and skills to earn a living, and develop them into good citizens.

The mission of the Education Service is to mould the future of the nation, by moulding the people who will determine the future of the nation. The Service will provide children with a balanced and well-rounded education, develop them to their full potential, and nurture them into good citizens, conscious of their responsibilities to family, society and country.

Every citizen is valuable and has a unique contribution to make. Through education every individual can realise his/her full potential, use his/her talents and abilities to benefit his/her community and nation, and lead a full and satisfying life. Every child must be encouraged to progress through the education system as far as his/her ability allows. Advancement must always depend on performance and merit to ensure equal opportunity for all. Every child should be taught at a pace he/she can cope with. Each should be stimulated to excel according to his/her individual aptitudes. The system must be flexible, to cope with pupils who mature mentally, physically, emotionally and socially at different rates. All children must learn to take pride in their work, to do their best and excel in whatever they doe, and to value and respect honest work. Education should equip students with the skills and knowledge, as well as the right values and attitudes to assure the livelihood of the individual and the country's survival and success. Pupils must learn to be self-reliant, yet able to work closely with others; individually competitive, yet with a strong social conscience. They must be flexible in mind and outlook to adapt constantly to a rapidly changing world. Pupils must develop a sense of shared identity and destiny, the instinct to defend Singapore's national interests, and the resolve and confidence to stand together as one people, to overcome threats and challenges. Pupils ought to know their own cultural heritages and mother tongues. At the same time, they must learn to understand and respect the different racial, religious, cultural and language backgrounds of their fellow citizens.