The book ONEDEGREE, MANY CHOICES captures the impact of a government policy made 30 years ago. I have a long association with the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) starting from its inception, and subsequently in various capacities as the Minister for Education, Minister in charge of university education, and as Chairman of the International Academic Advisory Panel and Chairman of the National Research Foundation.

NTU began as a response to a need. In July 1980, the Council on Professional and Technical Education identified the need to significantly increase the number of engineers in Singapore to enable our economy to shift to more high-technology, high value-add activities.

To meet this need, the Council proposed, and the Government approved, the establishment of a new institute. Nanyang Technological Institute (NTI) –– NTU's predecessor –– was set up in 1981 with three engineering schools to educate practice-oriented engineers to run the industries that power our economy.

As Singapore grew and prospered, NTI evolved to become NTU. NTU went from being a teaching university to one with strong emphasis on both education and research.

Investing in higher education has been an integral part of our strategy for economic growth and nation building. It enables our people to fulfil their potential and equips them with the skills, knowledge and motivation to seize the future. I am heartened to read the detailed contributions of the NTI pioneers in virtually every industry that is vital to Singapore's development.

The book is unique because it is not about one person but a cohort. The life stories of the pioneer batch of NTI engineering graduates mirror the economic development of Singapore over the past 25 years. During this period, the Singapore economy went through structural changes as old industries were retired and new growth sectors developed. The pioneer batch of NTU engineering graduates have adapted well and made an impact on society.

The world is now significantly different. There is more competition given the rise of China and India. There are also many new opportunities for Singapore and Singaporeans today. Engineering talent is still relevant to help us innovate and adapt, and seize these new opportunities in the region and world around us. Hence, it is important that some of our most talented young people continue to view engineering as a discipline of choice.