Update on the Postgraduate Certificate in Islam in Contemporary Societies (PCICS) and Singapore Islamic College (SIC)

Question

Dr Wan Rizal: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Development and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs (a) whether he can provide an update on the Singapore Islamic College and its tie-in with the Postgraduate Certificate in Islam in Contemporary Societies (PCICS) programme, including its take-up rate and efficacy; and (b) whether any changes will be made to the PCICS programme in terms of (i) duration (ii) content and (iii) accessibility.

Response

Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs & Minister for Social and Family Development:

1. The first cohort of the Postgraduate Certificate in Islam in Contemporary Societies (PCICS) programme enrolled in April 2020. The one-year programme has since enrolled three cohorts, for a total of 132 returning religious graduates.

2. The joint academic committee, comprising senior Muis representatives and faculty members from the university partners, namely National University of Singapore, Singapore University of Social Science, Al Azhar University and University of Jordan, observed that the first PCICS cohort performed well, despite the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on feedback from the first cohort of students, 70% felt that learning outcomes across modules were achieved, and they reported a positive learning experience.

3. Muis will be making several improvements to the PCICS. These include strengthening English & Arabic Language support for students and introducing more opportunities for practical applied learning, so that students can have more “hands-on” experiences before they enter the workforce.

4. The first cohort of PCICS students will be graduating this year, and Muis will continue to engage them to assess how the PCICS has helped prepare them for employment as asatizah.

5. The PCICS is an important precursor to our longer-term plan to establish a tertiary-level institution of Islamic studies.  It enables Muis to build up experience and a body of knowledge to develop a curriculum for tertiary studies, in collaboration with international partners. In addition, Muis launched the Research Programme on Communities of Success (RPCS) in June 2021 to grow its capabilities. The Research Programme aims to develop knowledge on emerging socio-religious issues experienced by minority Muslim communities living in secular states and advanced economies.

6. The PCICS and RPCS will enable Muis to build a strong foundation to develop respected religious leaders that will guide our Muslim community to thrive in Singapore, contributing to our Community of Success.