National University of Singapore
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The National University of Singapore (NUS) was inaugurated on 8 August 1980 with the merger of the Nanyang University (1956) and the University of Singapore (1962). The University of Singapore had its own evolution. It was preceded by the University of Malaya which was formed in 1949 when two institutions, the King Edward VII College of Medicine (1905) and Raffles College (1928). merged. In 1962, the University of Malaya became known as the University of Singapore.
The first display of integration between Nanyang University and University of Singapore happened in 1978 with the set-up of a joint campus at Bukit Timah under the Joint Campus Scheme. At this campus, first-year students of arts, social sciences, science, commerce, accountancy and business administration from both universities studied together, taking the same courses that were taught by the same teachers and being examined by common internal and external examiners. Though a merger seemed inevitable, opposition to the idea was intense, particularly from the supporters of Nantah (Nanyang University).
In October 1979, Sir Frederick Dainton, then Chancellor of Sheffield University, under the invitation of the Singapore government, reviewed the organization of university education in Singapore. He recommended a merger based on the argument that a single university would enjoy economies of scale, stronger departments in every field of study, and greater opportunities for multi-disciplinary teaching and research. He also recommended the siting of different faculties on a single campus as there was a need to promote interaction among the students and staff and cooperation between faculties. After much public debate, the Government announced in April 1980 its decision to merge the two universities. On 29 July 1980, Parliament approved the National University Bill paving the way for the formal establishment of the National University of Singapore. On 8 August 1980, the eve of National Day, the National University of Singapore was formed.
Author
Nor Afidah
References
Lee, E., & Tan, T. Y. (1996). Beyond degrees: The making of the National University of Singapore (pp. 183-187). Singapore: National University Press.
(Call no.: RSING 378.5957 LEE)
National varsity bill to be tabled today (1980, June 25). The Straits Times.
National University of Singapore (2001). NUS Identity Style Guide. Retrieved March 5, 2002, from www.nus.edu.sg/identity/intro/evolution.htm
The information in this article is valid as at 1998 and correct as far as we can ascertain from our sources. It is not intended to be an exhaustive or complete history of the subject. Please contact the Library for further reading materials on the topic.
Subject
Politics and Government>>Education
National University of Singapore--History
Universities and colleges--Singapore
Education>>Higher education>>Colleges and universities