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1.52 Our fifth strategy is therefore to invest
in our people. This is a key prerequisite for
the success of all our other strategies. We must
continue to develop our talent to their maximum
potential. Continuing education and training will
help our workers update their skills and keep
their jobs. The recent changes to our upper secondary
education system and the planned expansion of
tertiary education will have a far-reaching impact
on the abilities and outlook of the next generation
of Singaporeans. The new, broader-based educational
system complements our traditional focus on numeracy
and technical knowledge with a new emphasis on
independent project work and creative thinking.
It will enable Singaporeans to thrive in a knowledge-driven
economy.
1.53 Around the world, dynamic cities like New
York, London and Shanghai are competing for global
talent. This is on top of the considerable talent
inflow from their national hinterlands. Since
Singapore lacks a domestic hinterland, it is even
more vital for us to reinforce our own talent
pool with global talent to sustain a sophisticated
and globalised knowledge economy. Singapore welcomes
anyone, whether entrepreneur, scientist, engineer,
manager or artist, who can contribute to our growth
and prosperity.
1.54 We should also strengthen our links with
the community of overseas Singaporeans, numbering
some 150,000-strong. Many of them have a deep
sense of attachment to Singapore and want to offer
their experience, expertise and network of contacts.
As our economy globalises further, the number
of overseas Singaporeans will grow. Our international
network will help us to sense what is happening
in all the major cities, and equip Singaporeans
with the exposure and flexible attitudes to operate
in a diverse world.
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