The 70-70 Target: Singapore's Bold Vision for Student Mobility

Singapore's Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), which encompass autonomous universities, polytechnics, and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), are at the forefront of a national push to equip students with global competencies. The cornerstone of this effort is the '70-70' target, announced in Budget 2020, aiming for 70 percent of local IHL students to secure some form of overseas exposure by 2028. Crucially, 70 percent of these experiences must occur within the ASEAN-China-India (ACI) region. This initiative reflects Singapore's strategic positioning as a hub in Asia's economic powerhouse, where understanding regional dynamics is essential for future leaders.

The target addresses a pre-pandemic reality where outbound mobility hovered around 20-30 percent across IHLs, heavily skewed toward Western destinations like the UK, US, and Australia. Post-COVID disruptions halted many programmes, but resurgence has been swift, driven by pent-up demand and economic imperatives. ACI—comprising the 10 ASEAN nations (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam), plus China and India—represents over half the world's population and the fastest-growing markets, making it a natural focus for building cross-cultural agility.

Defining the ACI Region and Its Strategic Importance

The ACI region is more than a geographical cluster; it's an economic engine projected to drive Asia-Pacific growth through 2030. ASEAN alone boasts a combined GDP exceeding US$3.6 trillion, with China and India adding scale through manufacturing prowess and digital innovation. For Singaporean students, exposure here means immersing in diverse contexts—from Vietnam's booming tech startups to India's vibrant startup ecosystem and Indonesia's resource-rich industries.

This focus counters over-reliance on Anglophone destinations, fostering 'stacked' experiences where students blend Asian insights with Western perspectives. As regional trade pacts like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) deepen ties, IHL graduates versed in ACI nuances gain a competitive edge in multinational corporations and diplomacy.

The Asia-Ready Exposure Programme: Fueling the Initiative

Central to achieving the 70-70 target is the Asia-Ready Exposure Programme (AEP), a grant scheme by the National Youth Council (NYC). Open to Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents aged 15-35 in IHLs, AEP funds short-term immersions (4-14 days) with preparation via online modules on ACI languages, cultures, and affairs. Endorsing organisations—primarily IHLs—apply for up to S$25,000 per project or S$1,000 per youth, covering flights, insurance, meals (up to S$15/day), and logistics.

Projects must blend industry visits (e.g., to multinationals), cultural site explorations, interactions with Singaporeans abroad, and discussions on regional challenges like sustainability. Since launch, AEP has empowered thousands, with debriefs ensuring lasting impact. For instance, participants report heightened cultural awareness and networks, aligning with outcomes like broadened global views on economic opportunities.

Progress Across IHLs: Universities Setting the Pace

Autonomous universities like the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Management University (SMU), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) are ramping up efforts. NTU exemplifies momentum: nearly half its 2025 graduating cohort had overseas stints across 55 countries, with 18 percent in ACI; projections for 2026 hit 53 percent total and 25 percent ACI. Overseas internships surged from 44 students in 2021 to 571 in 2024, nearly 90 percent ACI-focused.

SMU mandates overseas exposure for graduation since 2018, with students often stacking 2-3 trips blending ASEAN, North Asia, and Europe. NUS integrates global programmes like NUS College's marine conservation trips to Indonesia. These institutions offer exchanges, research attachments, and virtual options via Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) grants.

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Polytechnics and ITE: Practical Immersions Driving ACI Focus

Polytechnics—Nanyang (NYP), Ngee Ann (NP), Republic (RP), Singapore (SP), Temasek (TP)—and ITE emphasise hands-on exposure. RP directs 70 percent of trips to ACI. SP noted 2.5 percent of students abroad for work in 2024, up post-pandemic. NYP's Go Beyond initiative customises diplomas with 12-24 week Overseas Internship Training Programmes (OITP) in ACI partners.

ITE students volunteer in Vietnam kindergartens or rebuild playgrounds, building resilience. Funding from Enterprise Singapore's Global Readiness Talent Grant supports ACI internships, ensuring applied learning in real-world settings like Thailand's influencer agencies or Cambodia's investment outreach.

Real Student Stories: Transforming Perspectives

Abby Lee, a Ngee Ann Polytechnic mass communication student, interned five months in Bangkok, embracing 'sabai sabai' culture and networking professionally. Brighton Lim (NTU) shifted views on Cambodia via a three-week attachment, followed by Chongqing exchange, now eyeing Vietnam ventures. NUS law student Lee Jie Yu's Bali marine trip highlighted sustainable fishing amid energy disputes. ITE's Mohammad Emir Hariq rebuilt confidence teaching in Hue, Vietnam.

• Challenge stereotypes: From 'dangerous' Cambodia to hardworking locals.
• Skill gains: Project management, cultural adaptation, networking.
• Career pivot: Interest in regional roles over sole Western paths.

Career Benefits and Employability Boost

Overseas exposure hones soft skills like adaptability and intercultural communication, vital as 70 percent of Singapore jobs link to regional trade. Graduates with ACI experience excel in finance, tech, and logistics. NTU data shows stacked exposures yield nuanced global mindsets, preferred by MNCs. A recent Straits Times report highlights how these stints prepare for Asia's markets.

Challenges: Costs, Safety, and Scaling Up

Barriers include costs (mitigated by AEP/GRT), visa hurdles, and safety in ACI hotspots. Post-COVID health protocols linger, but hybrid models like COIL bridge gaps. IHLs address equity via subsidies for lower-income students, ensuring broad access.

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Future Outlook: Sustaining Momentum to 2028

With two years left, IHLs project steady climbs toward 70 percent, leveraging digital tools and partnerships. Expansions like NTU's 7,000 annual slots signal commitment. For the AEP details, check NYC resources. Students: Explore IHL global offices for applications.

This trajectory positions Singaporean talent as ACI-savvy, ready for a multipolar world.