CHENNAI: The Minister of State for Education, Singapore, Gan Kim Yong, visted Hindustan College of Engineering (HEC) along with Ajit Singh, Consul General, Singapore, and five principals from senior secondary schools from their country.

The objective of the visit was to learn about the Indian education system for future collaborations. The Singapore Government is exploring the possibilities for tie-up with Indian educational institutions for sending students for higher studies in specialised areas. The delegates were curious to know about collaborations between educational institutions and the industry. Mr. Gan Kim Yong explained that in Singapore, industry members sit on the boards of educational institutions and has a lot of say in the design of new courses and modules.

Another question from the Minister was about how many of the diploma holders enrolled

at HEC went on to do diplomas. When he was told that only 10 percent of the total intake was allowed for diploma holders, he said that in Singapore too, they had a similar problem. He said many diploma holders wanted to go on to university. But if they could not get in, they went to private universities, or did distance education courses for their degree.

This led to a shortage of technical manpower in Singapore, he added.

The delegates were also curious about the process of admission for foreigners.

The HEC officials explained there was no entrance examination for foreigners, although the latter would have to get a certificate stating their eligibility criteria from the affiliated universities.

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu