Enrolment and Graduation Rates of Female Vis A Vis Male Students in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Courses

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Ms He Ting Ru, Sengkang GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education over the past five years (a) what are the enrolment and graduation rates of female students in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning courses across Singapore's universities and polytechnics; (b) how do these figures compare to that of the male counterparts; and (c) what targeted measures are being implemented to increase female participation and retention in AI-related academic programmes.

Response

1.Over the past five years, female students comprised about a quarter of enrolment in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning programmes at the Polytechnics and Autonomous Universities (AUs). Similar to male students, more than 90% of these female students graduate from their programmes.

2.The Polytechnics and AUs will continue to raise awareness and interest in AI-related careers and courses through avenues such as Open Houses and programmes for female students. For example, the Nanyang Technological University's Promotion of Women in Engineering, Research and Science (POWERS) programme equips female students with professional and personal skillsets to embark on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers. The Polytechnics partner with IMDA through the SG Women in Tech (SGWIT) initiative to grow female students' interest in tech careers through talks, workshops, hackathons, and mentorship opportunities.