In the vibrant world of Singapore's media scene, Dennis Chew has long been a household name as a charismatic radio DJ, actor, and host. Known for his engaging presence on Love 972's The Breakfast Quartet alongside Marcus Chin and Mark Lee, Chew's decision to return to formal education at the age of 48 marked a bold step into lifelong learning. Enrolling full-time at Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP) for a Diploma in Chinese Media & Communication, he not only completed the three-year program but graduated with merit in May 2025 at age 51, becoming the oldest full-time diploma graduate that year.

This achievement spotlighted Chew's commitment to personal growth amid a thriving career, inspiring many to reconsider education at any stage. His journey from polytechnic to eyeing university studies exemplifies how Singapore's higher education system supports mature learners through flexible pathways and government-backed initiatives.

Embarking on a Full-Time Poly Journey at Mid-Life

Dennis Chew's educational odyssey began in 2022 when he stepped back into the classroom at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, one of Singapore's five renowned polytechnics established to provide applied learning post-secondary education. The Diploma in Chinese Media & Communication was a natural fit for his media background, blending language skills, content creation, and digital media production—essential in today's multimedia landscape.

What drove this media star? Chew cited a desire to upskill and challenge self-perceived limitations. 'Many times, especially at my age, I tend to unconsciously think that I know a lot. But after coming to study... I realised that I am actually very fortunate – because it turns out I don't know as much as I thought I did,' he shared on social media. Enrolling as a mature student, he underwent the standard admission process, which for polytechnics considers prior qualifications like O-levels, work experience, and aptitude tests for applicants over typical school-leaver age.

Polytechnics like NP admit mature applicants aged 19 and above via the Direct Admission Exercise or Early Admission Exercise, recognizing professional experience. Chew's story highlights how these institutions bridge gaps for those who, like him, skipped or paused formal studies earlier due to life circumstances—such as his poor O-level performance decades ago.

Navigating Challenges: Work, Study, and Personal Growth

Balancing a demanding media schedule with full-time studies proved arduous. Chew hosted morning radio, filmed TV shows like Mr Zhou’s Ghost Stories, and attended lectures, often honing skills like video editing and scriptwriting late into the night. Yet, his perseverance paid off with accolades: the Kongzi Culture Fund’s Pei Hwa Foundation Scholarship and the Ministry of Education’s Edusave Certificate of Academic Achievement for two years, placing him in the top 25% of his cohort.

• Developed critical thinking and efficient communication through group projects.
• Gained digital media tools proficiency, directly applicable to his DJ and acting roles.
• Learned humility from 'young batchmates' innocence,' fostering personal maturity.

For mature students, such experiences build resilience. Chew noted, 'Although I came to study, I also learnt how to live better and be a better person.' Support from Mediacorp, lecturers, and peers was crucial, mirroring broader employer encouragement in Singapore's pro-upskilling culture.

Explore resources for balancing career and study via our higher ed career advice section.

A Emotional Graduation Ceremony

On May 2, 2025, Chew donned the dark blue gown at NP's graduation, receiving his diploma from director Sandra Toh amid cheers. Guest of honour Yuen Kuan Moon praised his inspirational tale. Tears flowed as he reflected on his late father's unfulfilled hopes, saying, 'I have attended the Star Awards many times, but this is my first time attending a graduation ceremony and I was very moved.'

NP's Instagram post echoed, 'We're so glad that you enjoyed your time in NP... We'll be rooting for you!' This milestone, among 198 humanities graduates, underscored polytechnics' role in lifelong learning, with 2024 enrollment at 62,285 full-time students.

University Crossroads: NUS Offer vs. SUSS Flexibility

Post-graduation, Chew secured a spot in NUS College of Humanities and Sciences for a Bachelor's in Chinese Studies. However, the full-time four-year commitment clashed with his passion for radio. 'I realized... I can't multi-task,' he admitted, opting instead for SUSS's part-time Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Studies, with evening classes from 7pm to 10pm.

Starting January 12, 2026, at age 52, he arrived late and embarrassed on day one but embraced the 'new start.' SUSS, designed for working adults, offered the perfect fit. NUS remains accommodating for future full-time pursuits. For more on Singapore pathways, check Singapore higher ed opportunities.

Singapore's Polytechnics: Gateways to Higher Education

Singapore's five polytechnics—Nanyang, Ngee Ann, Republic, Singapore, and Temasek—enroll over 20,000 annually in full-time diplomas, emphasizing hands-on learning. About 8,000 poly grads progress to universities yearly, with merit-based pathways. Mature applicants leverage work experience, as Chew did, supported by broadened criteria.

Polytechnics foster skills for industry 4.0, with progression rates contributing to the 60% lifetime degree participation target by 2025.

Adult Learner Pathways at NUS and SUSS

NUS's Advance@NUS targets adults 21+ with poly diplomas and work experience, granting up to 40 modular credits for accelerated degrees in business, engineering, humanities. SUSS's Adult Learners Scheme suits those 25+ with four years' experience, integrating poly quals; SkillsFuture Mid-Career Allowance subsidizes up to S$3,000/month for 40+ Singaporeans.

1. Assess eligibility via work exp/poly diploma.
2. Apply with portfolio demonstrating aptitude.
3. Secure subsidies through SkillsFuture portal.
4. Enroll in modular/stackable courses.

These enable seamless poly-to-uni transitions for lifelong learners.

SkillsFuture: Fueling Lifelong Learning

SkillsFuture Singapore empowers upskilling with credits—260,000 users in 2024, up 35%. Mid-career folks tap enhanced credits (S$4,000 extra for 40+), funding poly/uni modules. Over 555,000 participated in 2024, aligning with poly diplomas' practical focus.

• Career transition programs: 36,000 users, S$24m claimed May 2024-2025.
• Supports uni progression via Earn and Learn schemes.
• Boosts enrollment in humanities like Chinese Studies.

Benefits, Challenges, and Stakeholder Views

Mature students like Chew gain updated skills, networks, and confidence, enhancing employability. Challenges include time management and generational gaps, but yield growth: 'As long as you can take the first step, it is not as difficult.'

Experts note 44% P1 cohort reach degrees, with adults vital for workforce adaptability. Employers value poly grads' practicality; unis like SUSS report high satisfaction among part-timers.

Inspirational Peers in Lifelong Pursuit

Chew joins others like Roy Ang, who gained NUS entry after 20 years' persistence, showcasing determination. While celeb examples are rare, poly alumni in media underscore pathways' viability.

Photo by lucky luciano on Unsplash

Outlook: Expanding Opportunities Ahead

With uni enrollment at 81,475 full-time in 2024 and lifetime rates rising, Singapore prioritizes lifelong learning. Future sees more modular degrees, AI-integrated curricula, and subsidies, ensuring mid-career switches thrive. Stories like Chew's motivate: pursue higher ed jobs, rate professors at Rate My Professor, or seek career advice. Visit university jobs and post a job to engage.