Mr R Rajaram receiving the award from Mr M K Stalin, Chief Minister, Tamil Nadu
Mr Rajaram Ramasubban, Registrar, National University of Singapore is the recipient of the ‘Kaniyan pongundranar award 2025’ from the Government of Tami Nadu, at the recent World Tamil Diaspora Day conference in Chennai, for his services in education.
Sing-Ind Voice congratulates him on his award and is privileged to present his interview. In this interview, he shares his views on what the University has got to offer the Indian students.
1. What are the distinctive features of the National University of Singapore (NUS) in elevating its global ranking?
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is distinctive in many aspects and is renowned for the following:
a. Research Excellence: A strong focus on cutting-edge research and collaboration with global institutions.
b. Interdisciplinary learning: Programs integrating diverse fields like technology, business, and the arts.
c. International diversity : A diverse student and faculty, contributing to global exposure.
d. State-of-the-art facilities: World-class infrastructure and access to advanced technology.
e. Strong industry linkages: Partnerships with leading companies fostering practical learning and employability.
These are the major distinctive features of NUS.
2. What are the most competitive courses at NUS?
Some of the most sought-after programs include:
a.Medicine
b.Law
c.Dentistry
d.Computer Science
These programs need high academic requirements and have intense competition due to their global reputation.
3. What is your advice to the Indian students aspiring to Join NUS?
They should focus on the following
a. Academic excellence: They should aim for good grades in board exams and standardized tests (e.g., SAT, ACT).
b. Build a strong portfolio : They should engage in extracurricular activities, community service, or internships.
c. Cultural preparedness : They should develop the notion of adaptability to multicultural environments
Apart from these, they should stay updated with the application deadlines and processes. These are crucial for success.
4. What are the scholarships available for the Indian students ?
NUS offers the Science & Technology Undergraduate Scholarship for the Indian students.
5. Is the taxing Singapore education system essential to be competitive?
The high standards of Singapore’s education system has helped produce competitive individuals globally. However, balancing academic rigor with student’s well-being is essential to foster holistic development and to avoid burnout.
6. Can Singapore do away with PSLE and still maintain meritocracy?
Taking off the PSLE could lead to a less rigid educational structure, but alternative systems (e.g., continuous assessments or portfolio-based evaluations) must be implemented to uphold meritocracy while reducing stress.
7. Has the current Singapore education system made the students ahead of others at the University level?
Singapore students often excel at the university level due to their strong foundation in mathematics, sciences, and critical thinking. However, success also depends on adaptability, creativity, and soft skills, which are increasingly emphasized worldwide.
8. What are your most memorable and satisfactory part of your career?
The most memorable moments are when my work has significantly impacted others, such as inspiring students and while receiving recognition for the contributions to the role that I serve in.
9. What do you think are the accomplishments leading to the ‘Kaniyan Poongundranar award’?
I think, making significant contributions in education, literature, and social work has led me to this award.
10. What are your future plans?
I see myself to do these in the future: Expanding contributions in my field of expertise, mentoring the next generation, engaging in community or global initiatives to create a positive impact.