Beyond commitment: SMU charts its next chapter of impact
Published onWhat is different because SMU is here? At the SMU President's State of the University Address 2026, Professor Lily Kong challenged the University to look beyond achievement and turn commitment into momentum. Discover how SMU plans to strengthen education, research and partnerships, measure lasting impact, and create opportunities and improvements that endure for many generations to come.
In a new lecture series, SMU Provost Prof Alan Chan explored why harmony matters more than ever, examining social cohesion, mutual respect and dialogue as foundations for resilient communities in a diverse, contested world.
Is AI transforming higher education, or simply overhyped? SMU brought educators and thought leaders together to examine AI’s real impact on teaching, learning and assessment — highlighting both its promise to personalise education and the pressing ethical, pedagogical and governance questions universities must thoughtfully address.
SMU establishes a UNESCO Chair in Sustainability Law Futures, led by Associate Professor Michelle Lim, advancing interdisciplinary legal innovation and sustainable governance across Asia-Pacific region.
SMU graduates continue to post strong outcomes despite cautious hiring: 91.4% secured employment within six months, with rising salaries and many landing roles through internships.
SMU President Prof Lily Kong shared SMU’s future-ready agenda at APAIE 2026 – advancing lifelong learning, cross-sector partnerships, and impact-driven research to strengthen resilience and international collaboration.
SMU has welcomed the first seven startups into Urban SustaInnovator, its flagship deep tech accelerator for urban and sustainability solutions. Selected from 1,500 applicants across 91 countries, the zero-equity programme helps founders anchor in Singapore and scale into Asia with mentorship, partners and investor access.
SMU’s MBA climbed 15 places in the Financial Times 2026 Global MBA Ranking – now 57th worldwide and 13th in Asia – showcasing leadership in ESG teaching and career outcomes.
SMU Master of IT in Business alumnus Vaibhav Kanth credits SMU’s interactive, discussion-driven pedagogy – debate, teamwork and evidence-based problem solving – for shaping his fintech leadership at Delivery Hero.
SMU Patron’s Day 2026 brought Campus Green alive with performances, Makers showcases, competitions, and student-led activities, graced by Patron and Guest of Honour President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. His presence highlighted SMU’s strong community spirit, creativity, and shared sense of purpose among students, staff, alumni, and partners.
SMU and LSE formalise a landmark partnership to advance interdisciplinary research on cities, ageing and work, strengthening collaboration and delivering impact for Singapore and beyond.