As Republic Polytechnic enters its second year of operations, it is time to take stock of its achievements thus far.

RP was the first polytechnic to adopt a 100% Problem-Based Learning (PBL) pedagogy. We embarked on an unusual and daring adventure and now, one year later, our commitment has paid off in more ways than one, garnering praises from many quarters.

The key players of the polytechnic – the students – have shown remarkable promise, based on the many surveys and assessments done with the pioneer intake. It is evident that the students are responding positively to the curriculum as well as the atmosphere of RP, made vibrant by the numerous social, cultural and sports activities happening simultaneously. Parents too have been very supportive and some have even reported observing their children blossom in this open and creative learning environment.

This can only mean that we are on the right track in taking the road less travelled.

Outside the polytechnic, the rest of the education industry is sitting up and taking notice. Secondary schools, realising the benefits of PBL in enhancing learning, have already begun to learn best practices in PBL from RP and implementing them within their own contexts such as in project work.

Within the Schools and Technology Development Centres, efforts are well underway to establish RP as a centre of excellence for technology development and deployment among the industry. Numerous collaborations were formed with industry leaders, with MOUs with more than 40 partners sewn up so far. RP’s Adjunct Academic Scheme also allows the Schools to harness the expertise of our partners for student and staff development.

Within a short time-frame, RP has shown that it has the capability and the drive to eventually become a pillar among the institutes of higher education. On behalf of the Board of Governors, I wish to thank the staff for their dedication, commitment and pioneering spirit in recognising the potential of the polytechnic and working towards its realisation. With this strong foundation, I am confident that RP will continue to blaze a trail in the education industry.

Lee Hsien Yang
Chairman, Board of Governors
Republic Polytechnic