Speech by Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister of State for Education and Manpower, at the Class of 1986 20th Anniversary and Class of 1991 15th Anniversary Reunion on 4 November 2006, at 11 am

Speech by Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister of State for Education and Manpower, at the Class of 1986 20th Anniversary and Class of 1991 15th Anniversary Reunion On 4 November 2006, at 11 am

Mr Ramesh Nava
Chairman, Class of 1986 20th Anniversary Reunion Organising Committee

Mr Tenzin Quek
Co-Chairman, Class of 1991 15th Anniversary Reunion Organising Committee

Thank you for inviting me to be part of this very special event. Today, the alumni from the Classes of 1986 and 1991 have come together to celebrate your 20th and 15th anniversaries respectively.

I am sure many of you have fond memories of the days you spent in the university where you chased your dreams. Some have found your dreams, or even your soul mate in this place. Today we are gathered here once again – to renew ties with old friends, to reminisce and perhaps even relive some of the memories! This reunion, organised by a committee of enthusiastic alumni, speaks volumes of your attachment to your alma mater.

History and Development of NTU
Nanyang Technological Institute, NTI, was established on this campus in 1981 to produce practice-oriented engineers for the burgeoning Singapore economy. Since becoming Nanyang Technological University in 1991, NTU has embarked on a journey towards building a university of excellence with Asian roots, offering an education that bridges the east and the west.

Indeed, The University has made significant progress since its inception. From 3 engineering schools in 1986, it has broadened its education base to 4 Colleges – Engineering, Business, Science and Humanities & Arts. In addition, the University also has autonomous institutes such as the S Rajaratnam School of International & Strategic Studies which will be officially launched in Jan next year. The National Institute of Education, Singapore’s only teacher-training institute, is also an autonomous institute of NTU.

NTU graduates
NTU aims to produce graduates with industry-relevant skills, capitalising on the University’s close links with the industry. The residential experience also nurtures leadership and social skills that will allow its graduates to excel in this competitive world.

Taken together, these approaches have enabled NTU to achieve an impressive track record of producing graduates who are well grounded in the fundamentals, mature in outlook and possess strong analytical and interpersonal skills. NTU graduates are highly employable.

Moving forward – University autonomy
Going forward, NTU will continue to enhance its niche strengths in science and technology to be a research-intensive institution, and a leading global university of excellence in science and technology.

After becoming an autonomous university on 1 April 2006, NTU has greater latitude to chart its own directions and take the necessary strides towards excellence. The role of the alumni will grow in importance, as vital stakeholders of the University. You will play a crucial role in helping NTU to attain global excellence, and in turn you can pride in the University's growing reputation.

The anniversary of your graduation from NTU is not only a time to celebrate, but also a time to reflect on the opportunities that your education has given you. I urge you to remain connected to your alma mater, and play your part in supporting the university in its continued efforts to strive for new heights.

Congratulations to your 15th and 20th anniversary class reunions. I wish all of you an enjoyable and memorable day.