Friday, September 01, 2006
12:30 AM
Standing Tall in a Shrinking World
juz wanna share abt the Kent Ridge Ministerial Forum that i attended juz now. Dr Ng Eng Hen was invited to speak to us about how we, as NUS undergraduates can differentiate ourselves in a global economy. He used the SWOT analysis to describe the chances that we stand in this competitive environment :) feel free to disagree hehehe
Strengths
NUS graduates hold a respected degree which comes wif an 'international brand'. Potential employers recognize NUS graduates to have intellectual vigour, honesty, loyalty and who are bilingual and are adaptable to cultures. This 'market premium' would ensure a good stead in the job market.
Weaknesses
Several weaknesses of NUS graduates were identified. Most were less adept in handling pple (manage groups), less able to understand fuzzy ideas and are particular about overseas postings (due to the fear of dislocation, uncertainty, children education etc). NUS graduates are also perceived to be unwilling to learn practical experience. NUS graduates must learn to be SERVICE ORIENTED. Dont get me wrong...NUS students can score high marks in exams =)
Opportunities
Dr Ng explained that with the development of an ASEAN community by 2015, the market reach and potential opportunities would vastly expand. Dis, coupled with the booming China and Indian markets, there will be a continued growth of opportunities in the different sectors/areas of production and services. NUS graduates can get global positions within recognized MNCs and medium enterprises. Hence this access to the new market will definitely boost our chances of getting jobs...if we have the right attitude to embrace these challenges
Threats
It cannot be denied that the threats of terrorism and national/regional security will have and impact on the job market and the economy as a whole. On an individual level, there will be increased competition between spore graduates and even foreigners. It is estimated that 1/2 of the birth cohort will attain degrees (public/private/overseas) due to affordability and easier access. With the degree being commoditized, it is of paramount importance that we differentiate ourselves with other qualifications to stand out in this saturated market. Dream Big and Act on Them!!!
Ok...juz share wad harun (budak k2p!!!!) asked Dr Ng...Harun mentioned that talking about the chances of undergraduates is enriching. Undergraduates can be classified as those within the middle and upper levels in the hierarchy of society. However, with the implementation of the new immigration policy, then there would be a tendency to focus on this two levels and chips wiyld be stacked against the lower base of the societal pyramid in which the general population lies. They will be at a disadvantaged because of the foreign import which boost either the best brains or the cheapest labour.
He replied by saying that Spore's stand on an open door policy is to ensure the economy keeps growing. He mentioned that it is inevitable that a particular strata will be subjected to the pressures of globalization. It is on the onus of the goverbment to redistribute wealth, maintain balance and emphasize the commitment of the people.
Utilitarian concept perhaps? (towards the greatest good for the greatest number)
.sincera fazzy.
