Full Breakdown
Jamus Lim Advocates for Smaller Class Sizes in Singapore's Education System
2/17/2026, 2:15:11 AM
Core Argument for Smaller Class Sizes
Associate Professor Jamus Lim has reiterated his call for smaller class sizes in Singapore's education system, emphasizing that advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have increased the necessity for human teachers rather than diminished it. In a Facebook post dated February 14, 2026, Lim, who serves as a Member of Parliament for Sengkang GRC and teaches economics at ESSEC Business School, argued that appropriately sized classes foster stronger learning dynamics among students and between teachers and students. He stated, “As an educator… I can attest to how much more conducive classroom dynamics are for learning… when they are right-sized.”
Critique of Current Classroom Models
Lim criticized the existing “industrial model” of education, which often accommodates 30 to 40 students per classroom, suggesting that this approach prioritizes efficiency over empathy. He advocated for a shift towards more intimate learning environments, asserting that smaller class sizes are essential for providing customized attention that nurtures understanding and curiosity in students. He highlighted that while AI tools can enhance personalized learning, they should complement, not replace, human instruction.
Government Response and Differentiated Approaches
The issue of class size was also addressed in Parliament on February 3, 2026, where Education Minister Desmond Lee outlined the Ministry of Education's (MOE) differentiated approach. Lee noted that MOE is guided by students' learning needs, implementing smaller class sizes and additional resources for those requiring more support. For instance, Primary 1 and Primary 2 classes are maintained at around 30 students, while secondary education employs Full Subject-Based Banding, resulting in class sizes ranging from 20 to 40 students. He emphasized that technology, including AI, cannot replace the human touch in teaching.
Interim Solutions and Supportive Perspectives
In light of resource constraints, Lim proposed interim measures to enhance adult-to-student ratios, such as increasing the number of teaching aides in classrooms. He expressed concern over the MOE's decision to reduce these roles while expanding specialized support staff like school counselors. Supportive comments from educators and parents highlighted the benefits of smaller classes, noting improvements in student engagement and responsiveness to diverse learning needs. One parent shared that her child thrived in a smaller group setting, while another educator emphasized that quality teaching goes beyond delivering content, requiring the ability to identify and address learning gaps.
Looking Ahead: Budget 2026 and Educational Reform
As Singapore approaches Budget 2026, Lim expressed hope for advancements towards smaller class sizes, indicating that the Workers’ Party would support any initiatives aimed at enhancing student outcomes. He underscored the importance of educational policies that enable children to flourish rather than merely cope within the system, stating that the ultimate goal should be to improve the overall educational experience.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As an educator… I can attest to how much more conducive classroom dynamics are for learning… when they are right-sized,” — Jamus Lim, Associate Professor and MP
- “There is no substitute for human-based teaching, for the human touch,” — Desmond Lee, Education Minister
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Lim advocates for smaller class sizes, former Education Minister Chan Chun Sing raised concerns regarding the feasibility of such changes, questioning whether achieving smaller classes would require doubling the teaching workforce. This highlights a potential gap in consensus on the practicality of Lim's proposals within the current educational framework.
