He stresses character, talents; says success is attainable whatever the family background
By Toh Yong Chuan, The Straits Times, 6 Jan 2013
Meritocracy in Singapore is about more than just academic grades, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday as he stressed that everyone here - regardless of background - has a shot at success.
"When we say 'merit', we are not just talking about grades or scores, but also character, leadership and a broad range of talents," said PM Lee said in a speech to more than 1,500 students and their parents at a bursary and Edusave award ceremony in his Teck Ghee ward.
He said: "We make sure that whatever your family background, whatever your circumstances, you may be poor, you may be from a single-parent family, you may be having some learning disabilities, but if you work hard, you can succeed.
"It does not matter what your background is. We make sure we identify you, we give you the opportunities and also the resources and the support so that if you succeed, you can do well for Singapore."
Yesterday was the second time in just over a month that PM Lee stressed that meritocracy cannot be narrowly defined as being just about grades. He also spoke on the topic at a PAP conference on Dec 2 last year.
In that speech, the Prime Minister said he was worried when Singaporeans reject meritocracy and asked what could replace merit as the basis for decisions on jobs or school places.
The principle has come under considerable scrutiny in recent months, especially in the field of education. Some have asked, for instance, if the scholarship system causes elitism.
The principle has come under considerable scrutiny in recent months, especially in the field of education. Some have asked, for instance, if the scholarship system causes elitism.
While the Prime Minister repeated the same call on broadening the definition of meritocracy, yesterday he focused on what roles parents and students can play in it.
He urged parents to set an example: "Guide your children, set good examples and instil good moral values in them."
Turning to students, Mr Lee urged them not to neglect their studies even though there would be more focus on character, leadership and service.
"Results and grades are not the only measure of success or the only thing that matters in life," Mr Lee said, adding: "But it is important that you learn and study hard to give you a good basis for what you can do in life."
He pledged that the Government will continue to help all students achieve their potential.
In a Facebook posting last night, the Prime Minister praised four students who received Edusave awards for excelling in areas beyond their school books.
Among them is Primary 5 pupil Xavier Bok, who received an Edusave Character Award for participating actively in his school's adventure camp despite his night blindness. He is also a class leader who tutors other pupils who are weak in Chinese, said Mr Lee.
The Edusave Character Award was introduced last year for students who show good character and exemplary values. It included a cash award of up to $500.
"The Edusave awards reflect the Government's commitment to meritocracy, and to help every student achieve their best," said Mr Lee. "To the students, congratulations and keep on trying to do better!"
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