Providing English-language Programmes Equivalent to Autonomous Universities' Mandarin Postgraduate Programmes

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim, Sengkang GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education whether, alongside the launch of postgraduate programmes in Mandarin at autonomous universities, the Ministry will ensure that equivalent English-language programmes are provided.

Response

1. English is the primary medium of instruction across the Autonomous Universities (AUs). The proportion of Mandarin-medium programmes is small, comprising less than 5% of all Postgraduate by Coursework programmes offered at the AUs, and with a small student intake relative to that of all Master's programmes. Most of these Mandarin-medium programmes have English-taught equivalents, or are taught bilingually.

2. The AUs have autonomy to offer postgraduate programmes. Mandarin-medium programmes were developed in response to strong demand by both local and international students keen to seek opportunities in Mandarin-speaking markets. These programmes are open to all students.