Enrolment and Graduation Rates of Female vis-a-vis Male Students in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Courses

19 Ms He Ting Ru asked 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.

Mr Chan Chun Sing: 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.

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 the Infocomm Media Development Authority, through the SG Women in Tech (SGWIT) initiative, to grow female students' interest in technology careers, through talks, workshops, hackathons and mentorship opportunities.