In an op-ed for The Straits Times, SMU President Professor Lily Kong reflects on the urgent need for universities to respond to the growing convergence of pressures facing higher education — including political scrutiny, funding constraints, technological disruption, and public scepticism. She calls for a reimagining of the university’s purpose: one that moves beyond knowledge acquisition and employment outcomes to embrace holistic student development, lifelong learning, and social relevance. Highlighting the importance of resilience, self-awareness, and adaptability, Professor Kong emphasises that learning happens as much outside the classroom as within it — through mentoring, community engagement, reflection, and lived experience. These are principles she affirms remain central to the SMU approach.
