At the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, opportunities to learn are not confined to the classroom. Students learn not only from the faculty, visiting scholars and practitioners, but equally through interaction and exchange with their fellow classmates.

To date, students from around 37 countries have passed through the doors of the School. Students at the School come from many different nations, including Australia, Bhutan, Cameroon, Canada, People’s Republic of China, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Korea, Malaysia, Maldives, Mexico, Mongolia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Poland, United States and Vietnam. They received their undergraduate studies in fields ranging from economics, medicine, sociology, business and engineering. They are also at different stages in their careers; some join the School after completing their undergraduate studies while others at a later stage in their careers. It is this very diversity that is valued as an integral part of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy experience.

In today’s dynamic and highly competitive globalised landscape, organisations seek professionals who can bring a truly international perspective to their roles, a perspective that is derived not just from formal education but from experiencing multicultural perspectives on issues. Exposure to the collective knowledge and experience of peers from around the world plays a key role in fostering this perspective.

The multifariousness ensures that no nationality, style and dogma dominates, allowing for a truly global learning environment. This is why a cosmopolitan student body is vital to a successful public policy school. Although diverse, the student body is a close-knit community, drawing strength from its heterogeneity and united by a common passion for public service.

In the first week of every semester, students of the different programmes elect Class Committees that function as a bridge between the School administration, faculty and students. These committees liaise with the school administration to help solve problems experienced by students and to improve the learning environment. They also organise a myriad of activities which cultivate students’ special talents and create a rich cultural tapestry.

The School’s Asian Journal of Public Affairs (AJPA) is produced by its students. The journal is a web-based, academic publication regarding public affairs issues pertaining to Asia and the Oceania region. Printed on a biannual basis, AJPA was established to analyse and influence policymakers within Asia through an interdisciplinary lens, including but not limited to Public Policy, Public Management, International Relations, International Political Economy and Economics. Each edition features scholarly submissions, case studies, book reviews, and commentaries from distinguished figures.

Students also produce LKYSPPeak – a newsletter which includes feature articles and interviews on contemporary policy issues in Asia, as well as updates on the School, students and staff. The newsletter is distributed to the School’s Governing Board, alumni and current students, faculty and staff.