Work experience as important as classroom learning

I agree with the comments by Education Minister Heng Swee Keat in the report “Workplace the best arena for developing skills” (July 17).

It is true that beyond the classroom aspect of education, work experience is just as important. We need companies to recognise that developing the skills of their employees is as important as seeking to hire candidates with good academic records.

The education experience in polytechnics, the Institutes of Technical Education and universities also needs to stay relevant in terms of encouraging learning both in the classroom and at the workplace after students leave school. Students must have both academic knowledge and skills that are valued by society.

Also, Singapore’s education system has long focused on classroom learning. Educational institutions must partner with more companies to give students more opportunities to experience the workplace.

Such an experience allows students to put what they have learnt in the classroom into practice and determine whether a career path appeals to them and would be something to pursue in the future.

Besides being allowed to hone the skills they have, students can also pick up more skills at the workplace. In particular, they should be taught to keep up with changes in technology, which should come easily to young people as they are already comfortable and up to date with technology. This is a deeper skill that will allow them to keep up with changes in society as technology advances.

There are challenges to accomplishing these aims, such as choosing the right workplace for young people to pursue their interests and talent.

Young people also need to realise skills development is essential, instead of getting too caught up with making money. They should not neglect pursuing their interests at the workplace if they want to go further.

There should be a balance between classroom and workplace skills development. Schools must keep engaging students on both fronts by providing them with opportunities in these areas.

Educational institutions and the Education Ministry should also engage students through dialogues to widen the range of workplaces available, so they can match students’ expertise and interests. This would give students the motivation to do well at the workplaces they are assigned, as they would already be interested in the job.

I also hope students treasure the opportunities given to them by schools to develop their skills to the best of their abilities.