Access Social Mobility Summit 2024

The State of Social Mobility in Singapore provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of social mobility, drawing on data-driven analyses from leading academics and practitioners in the field. The session explored the extent to which individuals can move up the social and economic ladder over their lifetimes, considering factors such as education, occupation, and income. Speakers also examined the causes and consequences of social mobility, including the impact on economic growth and inequality.

The Business Case for Social Mobility explored the ways in which promoting social mobility can benefit businesses of all sizes and sectors. Drawing on the perspectives of corporates with experiences in this area, the session highlighted the many advantages of having a diverse workforce, and topics included actionable strategies such as mentoring programmes and targeted recruitment, as well as exploring the broader community impact of social initiatives - underscoring the pivotal role businesses play in advancing societal progress.

The Role of Philanthropy in Advancing Social Mobility explored the ways in which philanthropic organisations and individuals can contribute to promoting greater social mobility. Drawing on the perspectives of experienced philanthropists, the session highlighted the many opportunities and challenges facing those who seek to drive positive change in this area, including the need for effective partnerships and sustained investment.

This thought-provoking fireside chat delved into the intricate dynamics of the education system as a catalyst for social mobility.
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The discussion navigated the balance between meritocracy and social mobility, spotlighting the impact of intergenerational privilege and disadvantage. It also explored the evolution of education to embrace diverse definitions of success beyond the conventional “5Cs”, and assessed the resources available to empower financially, socially, and academically disadvantaged students.