EAIM and NCUK Partnership Launch: A Milestone Event Celebrated with Enthusiasm

In a significant move towards fostering international educational collaborations, EAIM was the site of a momentous event on August 2, 2024. The occasion was the launch of the partnership between East Asia Institute of Management (EAIM) and Northern Consortium United Kingdom (NCUK), marking a new chapter in the pursuit of academic excellence and global education. The event was a blend of formal proceedings and vibrant performance, reflecting the dynamic spirit of this exciting partnership.

Opening speech from Mr. Mark Chua, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EAIM

The ceremony commenced with an address from Mr. Mark Chua, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of EAIM. His insightful speech highlighted the vision and potential of the EAIM-NCUK partnership, and emphasised how it aims to broaden educational opportunities and create pathways for students to thrive in an increasingly globalised world. Mr Chua stated that “NCUK, founded by 16 leading universities offers pathways that lead to over 50 prestigious universities worldwide, including renowned institutions in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the USA. This collaboration ensures that our students have access to top-notch educational opportunities right here in Singapore, saving time and resources that would otherwise be spent abroad.”

Mr. Stuart Smith, Chief Executive of NCUK making his speech at the launch

Following him, Mr. Stuart Smith, the Chief Executive of NCUK, elaborated on the objectives of this collaboration, focusing on enhancing academic programmes and providing students with unique international learning experiences. He emphasised that this partnership creates a gateway for students across the region to pursue a globally recognised qualification and commence their pathway to leading universities in the world. He then brought up that with 9 of 50+ NCUK university partners ranking in the World Top 100 and 19 in the World Top 200 in the most recent QS World University Rankings 2025¹, NCUK ensures that students have access to world-class education that propels them towards success in their academic pursuits and beyond.

Guest of Honour, Mr. Alex Yam, the Mayor of North West District and MP for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC (Yew Tee)

The event was graced by several esteemed guests, including Guest of Honour, Mr. Alex Yam, the Mayor of North West District and MP for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC (Yew Tee. Mr. Yam’s presence underscored the significance of the partnership for the local and international educational landscape. He highlighted that “this is a new chapter providing quality education and creating pathways for students from all walks of life.” Mr Yam also indicated that this partnership is not just a fusion of two esteemed education bodies, but a fusion of values, vision, and commitment to nurturing future generations of students, not just in Singapore, but in the region and abroad as well.

Special Guest Ms. Denise Phua, the Mayor of Central Singapore District and MP for Jalan Besar GRC (KG Glam), also attended the launch, adding to the event’s prestige. Her participation highlighted the collaborative spirit and community support surrounding the partnership. Other notable guests include Mr. Nikesh Mehta, British High Commissioner, Mr. Paul Broom, Director of Political Affair from the British High Commission; Mr. David Kelly, Executive Director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Singapore; Mr. Ben Burrow, Regional Director of Education New Zealand; Dr. Lissy Vadakel, Country Director of the British Council; Principal Mdm Adel Ong from Unity Secondary School; EAIM partners from Thye Hua Kwan Moral Society, Caregiver Alliance, Singapore Red Cross, and Singapore Fashion Council.

Hip hop dance performance by students from Unity Secondary School

Next up, a highlight of the event was a vibrant hip hop dance performance by students from Unity Secondary School. The performance was met with enthusiastic applause, adding a lively and youthful energy to the celebration.

From left to right, Mr. Stuart Smith, Mr. Alex Yam, Mr. Mark Chua and Ms. Denise Phua initiating the launch of the EAIM International

EAIM International, the first NCUK study centre in Singapore, was officially launched by our distinguished guests. With the aim of providing an accelerated pathway to world-class universities, EAIM International will bridge the gap between secondary education and university by offering programmes such as the International Foundation Year (IFY) and Undergraduate Year One (UGY1), which equip students with essential academic and English language abilities.

Mr. Mark Chua presenting appreciation tokens to Mr Alex Yam, Mr Stuart Smith, Ms. Denise Phua and Mdm. Adel Ong

Mr. Mark Chua presented a Token of Appreciation to our Guest of Honour, Mr. Alex Yam and NCUK Chief Executive, Mr. Stuart Smith. The letter ‘A’ and ‘S’, representing Mr. Yam’s and Mr. Smith’s respective first names are hand drawn and crafted by the talented local artist, Tay Jun Yi, part of the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), and known for his incredible ability to bring a variety of animals to life through his art. Ms. Denise Phua and Mdm. Adel Ong also received tokens for their efforts and support for the event.

The launch of the EAIM-NCUK partnership represents a strategic move towards expanding educational horizons and creating global opportunities for students. With strong leadership, support from a strong EAIM academic team, and a dynamic approach to education, this partnership promises to pave the way for a bright future in higher education.

As the event concluded, attendees left with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the collaborative ventures ahead. The EAIM-NCUK partnership is set to redefine educational experiences, blending academic rigor with global perspectives, and fostering a new generation of well-rounded, internationally-minded students.