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This article highlights that only a small number of tertiary students in Singapore take part in more than one overseas internship, as such experiences tend to attract highly self-directed and purposeful individuals. Ms Sarah Neo, head of Career Development at SUSS, notes that fewer than 10 undergraduates each year typically pursue multiple overseas work stints. The article also mentions the polytechnic sector, with SP sharing that 2.5 per cent of its students went overseas for work experience in 2024, a figure it aims to raise to 4.5 per cent by 2026, according to Ms Ng Su Ling from its Department of Industry and Partnerships. Despite substantial funding support from organisations such as Enterprise Singapore, polytechnics and overseas industry partners, some students; including those from SP and NP remain hesitant due to lower overseas internship stipends compared with local ones. However, Ms Ng emphasises that the intangible benefits, such as exposure to intense global competition, rapid technological changes, and differing work cultures, often outweigh financial concerns, pushing students to become more motivated and reflective about the skills they need to stay competitive in the future workforce. At NP, participation in overseas work internships has grown by about 25 per cent year on year since the resumption of post-pandemic travel, says Ms Fong Pin Fen, Director of the polytechnic’s Centre for Southeast Asia. “While exact figures vary by school and programme, we are seeing stronger demand and earlier sign-ups across the board. Some overseas programmes, especially placements in China, are now oversubscribed, reflecting a growing student appetite for regional exposure,” she says. Overall, she notes a clear trend of students being “more intentional” about incorporating overseas experience into their career portfolios.

[The Straits Times]

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