People should not be judged “just by educational qualifications, but also by character” - Prime Minister

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http://www.todayonline.com/singapore/pm-gives-assurance-opportunities-safety-nets?singlepage=true

It will take more than just continuing education and training to help Singaporeans achieve their potential. Social values matter too and a person should not be judged “just by his educational qualifications, but also by his skills, contributions and character”, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day message yesterday.

“This is how we keep Singapore a land of hope and opportunity for all,” he said, while outlining another key priority of the Government: Enhancing social safety nets to give Singaporeans peace of mind that they will be taken care of.

Such peace of mind, he added, will allow Singaporeans to hope and dare; to take full advantage of a “system that enables you to shoot for the stars”.

Mr Lee pointed out that education is a big part of a system that allows Singaporeans to chase their dreams and fulfil their potential, regardless of family background or circumstances.

“Your learning should not stop when you graduate from ITE or polytechnic. The Government is helping you further your studies, but the academic route is not the only way up.”

The Government will help graduates upgrade themselves while they work — by mastering specialised skills and earning advanced qualifications as they progress in their careers, he said. “Whichever path our students and workers take, ultimately, we need a vibrant economy to produce good jobs and fulfilling careers.”

The Government is also improving social safety nets, such as through the new MediShield Life scheme. Referring to the scheme, which will provide universal coverage to all Singaporeans for life, Mr Lee said: “Now, we must implement it well. Please work with us on this.”

The Central Provident Fund scheme is being reviewed to ensure Singaporeans save enough for retirement. Mr Lee said he would talk about this at the National Day Rally next Sunday — considered to be the most important political speech of the year.

“The scheme works well for many of you, but it can be improved,” said Mr Lee, who added that his team is also studying how to make it more convenient for retirees to get cash out of their flats “in a prudent and sustainable way”.

Citing political changes in South-east Asia, maritime disputes in the South China Sea and conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, Mr Lee urged Singaporeans to uphold the spirit of the pioneer generation in a new era, which offers opportunities, albeit in an unpredictable global environment.