Conference Spotlights Multidisciplinary Research on Low Fertility

The Population Association of Singapore (PAS) 2026 Annual Conference, held on 21–22 May 2026 and co-organised by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) and PAS, brought together researchers, policymakers and practitioners to examine Singapore’s persistent low fertility challenges from multiple angles. The event featured presentations on infant childcare arrangements, paternity leave policies, children’s engagement with artificial intelligence and broader questions of family formation and child development. Findings from nationally representative data underscore the need for holistic family support to improve both developmental outcomes for children and the country’s fertility outlook.

Singapore continues to record one of the world’s lowest total fertility rates. Research presented at the conference draws on the Singapore Longitudinal Early Development Study (SG-LEADS), which tracks more than 2,500 children, to provide fresh evidence on how modern family life intersects with policy and cultural norms.

Infant Childcare and Early Development Outcomes

One key study examined non-parental care during the first 18 months of life. Children who received such care showed higher levels of achievement by preschool age. However, the same data revealed elevated risks of behavioural challenges linked to parenting stress, late entry into care and extended hours in non-parental settings. Researchers emphasised that stronger workplace flexibility, accessible quality childcare and community support networks can help working parents reduce stress and support positive child outcomes.

These insights align with ongoing discussions in Singapore’s higher-education sector about work-life balance for academic staff and researchers who are also parents. Universities such as NUS are increasingly exploring family-friendly policies that mirror the broader societal needs highlighted in the research.

Paternity Leave and Shifts in Gender Norms

Another study focused on paternity leave. Despite existing provisions, the short duration of leave available in Singapore does not appear to increase the likelihood of couples having a second or third child. Findings suggest that longer leave periods, combined with flexible work arrangements and a cultural shift toward shared parenting responsibilities, are necessary to influence fertility decisions. Comparisons with Nordic countries, where more generous policies correlate with different outcomes, highlight the interplay between policy design and entrenched gender expectations.

Faculty and administrators at Singapore universities have noted similar patterns among early-career researchers. Extended parental support could help retain talent in academia while addressing demographic pressures.

Children’s Use of Artificial Intelligence

Researchers also presented data on AI adoption among Singaporean children. More than half of 8- to 9-year-olds and over 80 percent of 10- to 13-year-olds had used AI tools. Interestingly, children from families with lower parental education levels were more likely to use AI for leisure or general purposes rather than academic ones. The study challenges assumptions about a straightforward digital divide based on socioeconomic status, suggesting that access alone does not determine beneficial use.

These patterns have direct relevance for higher-education institutions developing AI literacy programmes and curricula. NUS and other universities are positioned to lead in preparing future educators and parents to guide responsible AI engagement from an early age.

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Biological and Policy Dimensions of Fertility

Keynote addresses addressed biological drivers of low fertility in Asia, including the importance of earlier fertility awareness, preconception care and timely reproductive health support. Experts stressed that reproductive biology must be better integrated into policy discussions. Additional commentary highlighted the potential links between stable partnerships, parenthood and healthy longevity, framing family formation not only as a demographic goal but as a contributor to long-term population wellbeing.

The Emerging White Paper on Fertility and Human Development

Conference insights will feed into a joint NUS Medicine–PAS White Paper on fertility and human development. This first collaborative effort will offer actionable policy recommendations and is expected to be shared with the Marriage and Parenthood Reset Workgroup. The paper aims to synthesise multidisciplinary evidence on barriers to marriage and parenthood, effectiveness of interventions and strategies to support families across the life course. Delivery is anticipated ahead of the workgroup’s findings scheduled for early 2027.

University leaders view the white paper as an opportunity for Singapore’s higher-education sector to contribute evidence-based input to national policy. NUS Medicine’s involvement reinforces the role of medical and social science faculties in addressing complex societal challenges.

Implications for Singapore’s Higher-Education Landscape

The research presented at PAS 2026 resonates strongly within Singapore’s universities. Academic staff balancing research, teaching and family responsibilities stand to benefit from the policy recommendations emerging from the conference. Enhanced parental leave, flexible arrangements and improved childcare access could improve retention and wellbeing among faculty and postgraduate researchers.

Institutions are also examining how findings on early childhood development and AI use can inform teacher training and family support programmes offered through university outreach or continuing education initiatives.

Stakeholder Perspectives and Broader Context

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Indranee Rajah attended the conference as guest of honour, underscoring government interest in the research. University deans and researchers emphasised the need for coordinated action across workplaces, communities and government to create environments where individuals feel supported in forming families.

International comparisons featured in discussions, with attention to successful models from other low-fertility societies in Asia and Europe. The multidisciplinary approach—spanning paediatrics, social sciences, reproductive health and policy studies—reflects the strength of collaborative research at NUS Medicine and partner institutions.

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Future Outlook and Actionable Insights

The PAS 2026 conference and forthcoming white paper mark an important step in translating research into policy. For Singapore’s higher-education community, the work offers both a model of impactful interdisciplinary research and practical guidance on supporting the next generation of academics and families.

Universities may consider expanding family-support initiatives, integrating fertility and family policy topics into relevant curricula, and strengthening partnerships with government and community organisations. Continued longitudinal studies such as SG-LEADS will provide ongoing data to refine interventions.

As Singapore seeks to reverse its fertility decline while maintaining high standards of child development and workforce participation, the evidence generated by NUS Medicine and PAS researchers provides a valuable foundation for informed decision-making.