Singapore's English Language Standards Must Be Raised: Lee Kuan Yew
Sandra Davie - Straits Times Indonesia | September 07, 2011
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The emphasis on learning English as well as the mother tongue languages has given Singapore a headstart in relation to its neighbors.
But former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, who was speaking to some 1,200 educators and English Language experts gathered at the launch of the English Language Institute of Singapore, cautioned that this edge would not last forever as others in the region play catch up.
To stay ahead and ensure that Singaporeans can hold their own internationally, Lee said English standards here must be raised further.
He said: "Communication skills are one of the most important competencies needed in the 21st century workforce. If one is to succeed, he or she will need a mastery of English because it is the language of business, science, diplomacy and academia."
The English Language Institute was set up to raise the standards of the teaching and learning of English, and will run courses for teachers. It also aims to become an English-language teaching hub for Asia.
During his address, Lee also commented that the increasing dominance of American media meant that Singaporeans were being further exposed to American English. Ultimately, he believed, American English would become the final version of English, due to the sheer numbers and the strength of the American economy.
Lee added that teachers would have to recognize the fact that the world was moving towards this version of English.
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