Citizenship Education in Singapore 1950s-2020s: From 'Ideal Citizens' to 'Citizen Leaders'

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Citizenship Education in Singapore 1950s-2020s: From 'Ideal Citizens' to 'Citizen Leaders'
Language: English
Authors: Jasmine B.-Y. Sim, Nur Diyanah Anwar, Ivy Maria Lim
Source: Journal of Moral Education. 2026 55(1):145-170.
Availability: Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 26
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Elementary Secondary Education
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Citizenship Education, Educational History, Student Leadership, Elementary Schools, Secondary Schools
Geographic Terms: Singapore
DOI: 10.1080/03057240.2025.2529605
ISSN: 0305-7240
1465-3877
Abstract: Singapore's national school system has long served as the primary vehicle for instilling national and societal values in young learners. Today, citizenship education has evolved into a more student-focused and deliberate endeavour, emphasizing the systematic integration of values and character development. This article traces this evolution, arguing that its purpose has expanded beyond cultivating good citizens to shaping students as leaders. Drawing on the concept of the "citizen leader," it discusses how Singapore's emphasis on values and skills seeks to develop students who are active, resilient, and prepared for the future. A thematic review of 16 local school websites illustrates how the government's vision of student leadership is embedded within curricular frameworks. However, these approaches may also reinforce disparities across school types and academic streams, resulting in unequal access to leadership opportunities.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1505479
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Singapore's national school system has long served as the primary vehicle for instilling national and societal values in young learners. Today, citizenship education has evolved into a more student-focused and deliberate endeavour, emphasizing the systematic integration of values and character development. This article traces this evolution, arguing that its purpose has expanded beyond cultivating good citizens to shaping students as leaders. Drawing on the concept of the "citizen leader," it discusses how Singapore's emphasis on values and skills seeks to develop students who are active, resilient, and prepared for the future. A thematic review of 16 local school websites illustrates how the government's vision of student leadership is embedded within curricular frameworks. However, these approaches may also reinforce disparities across school types and academic streams, resulting in unequal access to leadership opportunities.
ISSN:0305-7240
1465-3877
DOI:10.1080/03057240.2025.2529605