Education in the 21st century is no longer about rote memorization—it’s about equipping learners with the creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability they need to navigate a fast-evolving world. Achieving this vision requires collaboration between schools and industry, a concept Singapore has embraced with the launch of the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) Partnerships Engagement Office (PEO).
As part of this initiative, edm8ker was honored to participate in MOE’s School-Industry Partnership Appreciation and Networking Event, a milestone gathering that celebrated impactful collaborations between schools and industry leaders. Our CEO and Chief Futurist, Veerappan Swaminathan, joined distinguished stakeholders at this event under the invitation of Intel® Skills for Innovation Program.
This event exemplifies the transformative power of partnerships in education and reaffirms edm8ker’s commitment to fostering future-ready learners by connecting innovation in classrooms with industry expertise.
Transforming Education Through Collaboration
The School-Industry Partnership Appreciation and Networking Event provided a platform for education and industry leaders to share insights and celebrate achievements. In his keynote address, Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing emphasized the importance of contextual learning:
“Our country’s competitiveness depends on how quickly we can connect frontier industry practices with what we teach in schools.”
At edm8ker, this philosophy is core to our mission. We believe that education must move beyond theory, offering students real-world contexts for learning that spark curiosity and purpose. Our collaborations with organizations like Intel and schools such as Pei Hwa Secondary exemplify how bridging classroom learning with industry expertise prepares students for the challenges of tomorrow.
Leadership in Action: Veera’s Perspective
Veerappan Swaminathan reflected on the transformative impact of school-industry partnerships:
“The jobs and workplaces that our children will enter after graduation will look nothing like the workplaces of today. But by working closely with industry leaders and employers, students will acquire some of the future-ready skills that employers value, and in doing so build a strong foundation for future success.” ”
This sentiment underscores edm8ker’s belief in the power of partnerships to inspire, engage, and empower learners. By working hand-in-hand with schools and industries, edm8ker is helping educators transform their classrooms into environments where students can explore, innovate, and thrive.
(Insert Photo: Veera with Minister Chan Chun Sing and Intel representatives, symbolizing this impactful collaboration.)
Bridging the Gap: Why Partnerships Matter
Minister Chan highlighted a key challenge that students face today: understanding the relevance of what they learn. Questions like, “Why do I need to learn fractions?” or “Why should I understand chemical titration?” are common in classrooms. By connecting education with real-world applications, partnerships help answer these questions and inspire students to see value in their learning.
Key highlights from the event included:
- Teacher Work Attachment Plus (TWA+): Industry partners opening their doors for educators to gain first-hand exposure to industry practices.
- Student Mentorship: Professionals engaging directly with students, not just as teachers but as mentors, sharing their knowledge, culture, and leadership principles.
- Building Confidence in Students: Providing students, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, with role models who believe in their potential.
edm8ker’s work aligns closely with these priorities. By fostering mentorship, leadership, and practical learning opportunities, we empower both educators and students to think beyond textbooks and prepare for the real world.
edm8ker’s Role in Shaping Future-Ready Learners
As a leader in maker-centered education, edm8ker brings innovative tools and programs that seamlessly integrate into classroom learning. Our offerings focus on equipping educators with resources to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration among students.
1. Future-Ready Maker Programs
Designed to develop 21st-century skills, our programs provide students with hands-on, curriculum-aligned STEM activities. These aren’t just lessons—they’re experiences that ignite a passion for learning.
- Explore Maker Programs.
2. Eddy: AI-Powered Curriculum CopilotEducator’s Assistant
Eddy is revolutionizing teaching with AI. Offering ready-to-use lesson plans, creative tools, and personalized resources, it simplifies classroom preparation while enhancing learning outcomes.
- Discover Eddy.
3. Makercart: Your Mobile Makerspace
This portable makerspace makes it easy to bring innovation to any classroom, empowering students to explore and create collaboratively.
- Book a Demo.
4. Makerspace Consultancy & Design
edm8ker helps schools design inspiring spaces that foster collaboration, creativity, and a love for learning.
- Learn More About Makerspaces.
(Insert Photos: Examples of students and educators engaging with edm8ker tools like Eddy and Makercart.)
Scaling Global Impact
While rooted in Singapore, edm8ker’s reach extends globally. Through our programs and partnerships, we’ve achieved:
- 100,000+ educators empowered
- 500+ schools transformed
- 60+ countries impacted
These numbers reflect real-world change—classrooms turned into hubs of creativity, students equipped with future-ready skills, and educators leading with confidence.
The Power of Mentorship
One of the most inspiring takeaways from the MOE event was the emphasis on mentorship. Minister Chan aptly noted:
“For many students, the biggest challenge is not financial access—it’s having someone who believes in them and guides them.”
edm8ker addresses this challenge by facilitating mentorship opportunities that:
- Help students connect with industry leaders who inspire them.
- Enable teachers to serve as role models for their students.
- Build students’ confidence to dream big and pursue their passions.
(Insert Photos: Mentorship sessions in action, showcasing students working with industry professionals. Ref: PQ’s email)
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
The MOE’s School-Industry Partnership Appreciation and Networking Event marks the beginning of an exciting journey. By fostering stronger ties between schools and industries, we can ensure that education remains relevant, dynamic, and impactful.
At edm8ker, we are committed to continuing this mission. Whether through innovative tools like Eddy, transformative programs like Makercart, or custom-designed makerspaces, we’re equipping educators and students to lead in an ever-changing world.
Explore Our Solutions: Future-Ready Maker Programs, Eddy, Makercart
Collaborate with Us: Contact Us for partnership opportunities or to bring our programs to your school.
Free Resources: Download Free STEM Activities to inspire your students today!
(Insert Group Photo: All event participants, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the initiative. Ref: PQ’s email)
