Since her appointment as 15th S R Nathan Fellow for the Study of Singapore by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) in August 2024, Professor Lily Kong, President of Singapore Management University, has undertaken research into the evolution of universities, their public value and the potential and reality of their contributions to societal development.
She opened her IPS-Nathan lecture series on 8 October 2024, at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House Auditorium, National University of Singapore. Titled, "Through the Looking Glass: Insights into the Origin and Evolution of Universities," Professor Kong’s lecture led the audience on a captivating journey through the history of higher education by exploring the development of universities over the centuries and their enduring impact on the societies they serve.
Tracing the Historical Evolution of Universities
Addressing an in-person and online audience of more than 250, Prof Kong shared that her lecture was a tribute to the late President S.R. Nathan, whose conversations and insights had inspired her. She then proceeded to showcase how universities have evolved from classical antiquity to how they are influenced by the complexities of today’s post-industrial world. Through several examples, Prof Kong highlighted that institutions of higher learning are shaped by social mores, political dynamics, and economic pressures. In many ways, they reflect the societies they serve. From their religious foundations in medieval Europe and the intellectual flourishing of the Islamic Golden Age to their roles in modern America and China, universities are catalysts for change and innovation.
Tackling Contemporary Challenges in Higher Education
Prof Kong also tackled some pressing challenges facing higher education today, including declining public trust, the demand for economic relevance, and the delicate balance between teaching and research. A key focus of her lecture was the relationship between higher education and social inequality. She emphasised the urgent need for expanded access and robust support systems for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Reflections and Leadership Insights in the Q & A Session
A lively Q&A session followed the lecture. Moderated by Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of the Singapore University of Social Sciences, this segment delved into broad-ranging issues such as the role of universities in perpetuating elitism, the importance of critical thinking in an AI-driven world, and the necessity of industry collaboration. In her engagement with the audience, Professor Kong emphasised the need for universities to adopt multidisciplinary approaches and commented on how educational systems can be optimised for holistic outcomes. She also shared candid views of why Geography should be regarded as an expansive discipline and how her background in this field has enabled her, as researcher and university leader, to explore new areas of knowledge and make connections across different disciplines. In response to a question from the audience, she encouraged early-career faculty working in research universities to break out of academic silos, urging them to take their research into the public domain for broader societal impact.
With this lecture setting the stage for deeper reflection and dialogue about the future of universities, Professor Kong looks forward to continuing this exploration in her upcoming lectures on 4 and 27 November 2024.
Stay tuned for more thought-provoking insights and reflections!
IPS Media Release: Appointment of the 15th S R Nathan Fellow for the Study of Singapore