Minister of Education and Technical Education Mohamed Abdellatif reviewed the experience of Singapore’s National Institute of Education (NIE) in teacher preparation and professional development during his official visit to the country. Discussions focused on the institute’s role in curriculum development, modern teaching methodologies, and the integration of educational research into classroom practice and policymaking.
The minister was received by Associate Professor Chow Jia Yi, Dean of Teacher Education and Undergraduate Programmes (TEUP) at the NIE, alongside several senior institute officials.
He was accompanied by Egyptian Ambassador to Singapore Amira Fahmy and Assistant Minister for Strategic Planning and Follow-up and Supervisor of the Central Administration for the Minister’s Office Ahmed El-Mohamady.
At the start of the visit, Abdellatif expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to tour the institute, praising its prominent role within Singapore’s education system and its contribution to teacher preparation, professional development and educational research aimed at improving teaching methods and learning outcomes.
He stressed that enhancing teacher performance remains a key priority in Egypt’s efforts to develop its education system. He noted that teacher development goes beyond academic qualifications and professional training to include equipping educators with modern teaching approaches that foster students’ critical thinking, analytical skills and creativity.
The minister also commended the institute’s approach to integrating scientific research with educational practice, emphasising the importance of translating research findings into practical classroom applications that strengthen teaching performance and improve learning outcomes.
For his part, Associate Professor Chow Jia Yi welcomed the minister’s visit and commended Egypt’s interest in benefiting from Singapore’s experience in teacher training and educational development.
He highlighted the importance of exchanging expertise and knowledge in areas of mutual interest and outlined the institute’s role in preparing and qualifying teachers. He noted that the NIE places strong emphasis on integrating academic knowledge, professional competencies and educational research to advance teaching practices and meet the evolving needs of the education sector.
During the visit, Abdellatif toured the institute’s introductory exhibition and attended a presentation on its efforts to link scientific research with educational practice and policymaking. He was also briefed on the institute’s research resources and their role in making specialised studies and knowledge accessible to researchers, teachers and education professionals.
The minister further attended a presentation on the impact of educational research on school development and Singapore’s education system, including initiatives aimed at improving teaching and learning and translating research findings into institutional improvements and more effective classroom practices.
The tour also featured an exhibition highlighting the role of teachers and their impact on students and society. It showcased examples of distinguished educators and successful educational experiences, underscoring the teacher’s central role in shaping future generations and advancing education.
At the conclusion of the visit, both sides emphasised the importance of expanding co-operation between Egyptian and Singaporean educational institutions and exchanging expertise in teacher preparation, professional development and educational research to support ongoing efforts to advance education in both countries.
