Indicators for Effectiveness of Engineering and Tech Programme Scholarship

Dr Neo Kok Beng asked the Minister for Education (a) what indicators, if any, does the Ministry use to evaluate the performance of the Engineering and Tech Programme Scholarship (ETPS); (b) what trends has the Ministry observed since the introduction of the ETPS in 2023; and (c) whether the Ministry has any plans to augment the ETPS, including to increase the annual number of ETPS recipients to 1,000.

The Engineering and Tech Programme Scholarship (ETPS) develops and encourages pre-university students to pursue engineering and technology courses and careers.

In evaluating the ETPS, the Ministry of Education (MOE) reviews the progression of scholars into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related university courses, as well as the impact of the ETPS on their interest in STEM-related careers.

There are early indications of the positive impact of the ETPS. The first batch of scholars graduated at the end of 2024. Among those who have accepted a university course, about 90% chose STEM-related university courses. We will continue to monitor the outcomes of subsequent cohorts of scholars.

Since its introduction, around 600 students have applied for the ETPS each year, with about 200 applicants awarded annually. MOE will continue to review the ETPS, including the number of scholarships to be awarded.