How far is education an answer to Singapores problems?

Discuss

As a young nation, Singapore has its fair bits of problems. This is compounded by the fact that, Singapore has a multi-racial and multi-religious society, an economy that is dependent on global outlook and a population that is highly demanding. These are problems of colossal magnitude. Fortunately Singapore is not daunted by these challenges. In fact, Singapore has cleverly avoided any serious downside of it by having a solid education system in place. A system that is vastly superior, comprehensive and relevant. Hence, I agree to a large extend that education is the answer for Singapores problems. One of the major problems that may cripple any economy is unemployment. In Singapore, unemployment is pretty well contained. This is done by two prong proactive measures taken by the government. Firstly,it is done by providing a wide range of educational facilities, both academic and vocational. Students who are not inclined academically are given the option to venture into vocational and technical applications. ITEs and Polytechnics are producing a workforce that is aptly skilled. Statistics suggest that about 75% Singapore workforce falls into this category. Secondly, it is realized by having English language as the functional language in the education system. Singaporeans can generally pride themselves for their command of English language. As globalization kicking in in such a rapid pace, we are now realizing the rational of English being the national language. The competitive edge it provides cannot be dismissed. A strong economy wouldnt have become a reality if not for a strong sense of mutual understanding among its population. In Singapores case, collaboration and unity are vital as we are a well-diversified society. With differences in language we speak, customs we profess and religion we practice, unity in diversity becomes even more crucial. In fact it is lynchpin for any success for that matter. The strong foundation we have here in Singapore is achieved through a relevant education system. This is the reason why Racial Harmony Day has become a powerful unifying tool in schools in Singapore. Understanding other peoples culture and religion help develop a strong bond of trust and subsequently lays the foundation of mutual understanding. The racial riots we have seen in the 1950s and 1960s have magnified the dangers of having a very fragile unity. Hence, our education is seen as the leading light, a beacon if you may call it, in uniting Singaporean towards one aim a united Singapore. On a micro level, education is well and truly a passport to every Singaporean to fulfill the Singapore dream. With a good education, we can always a get a good job that will alleviate our economic standing. With that, most of the fundamental problems can be solved at an individual level. As they say, if you want to solve a big problem, you have to start from the basics. Education is indeed a basic necessity.

However, education is not the magic potion that will cure every problem Singapore encounters. As much as education is expected to help overcome the tentacles of affliction, there is only so much it can achieve. One problem that is becoming a real headache is the widening gap between the rich and the have-not. This gap is becoming so evident that if drastic actions are not taken, it could become a real hurdle to all the good work which is done thus far. And, nothing much education can do here. Only a strong will on the governments resolve will ensure the road travelled so far remain unblocked. Another area education has limited impact is in artistic development. Every advanced country emphasizes development in artistic creativity. Singapore is not to be left behind. Though numerous measures have been taken through National Arts Council, the results are much to be desired. Creativity is innate. It can be nurtured, nevertheless. In a nutshell, education is indeed the key to solve most of the problems Singapore faces. It has proven its relevance beyond any reasonable doubt to this point. I am convinced that education will continue to spearhead our destiny in the future. The old adage, knowledge is power, by no means has powered Singapore to where it is today.