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There is a growing shift among Singapore students, especially from polytechnics such as NP, RP, and SP, towards gaining overseas exposure not just in the West but increasingly across the ASEAN-China-India (ACI) region, in line with a national target for 70% of students to have global experience by 2028. This trend is driven by rising demand for regional expertise and cross-cultural skills, with students benefiting from internships, exchanges and short-term programmes that broaden perspectives and career opportunities. Ms Tan Yen Yen, SP’s Deputy Principal (Development), noted that, “The dual exposure results in graduates who are comfortable in Western environments whilst understanding Asian markets and cultural nuances,” while NP’s Careers and Global Immersion Director Ms Fong Pin Fen emphasised that these experiences give students first-hand exposure to fast-growing regional markets and meet employers’ need for talent skilled in cross-border collaboration. Overall, institutions report a surge in Asia-bound programmes, reflecting a clear mindset shift towards balancing Western and regional exposure to better prepare students for global careers.

[The Straits Times]