Effective June 1, 2026, Heng Swee Keat, the former Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore, will take on the role of the first chancellor at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT). This appointment marks a significant milestone for the university, as Heng will serve for a five-year term, concluding on May 31, 2031. In this prestigious position, Heng will become the university’s foremost ceremonial figure and its ambassador, overseeing key academic events like graduation ceremonies and representing SIT at important institutional and external engagements.
The decision to establish the role of chancellor underscores SIT’s ongoing evolution as an institution of higher learning, committed to equipping students with practical skills through applied learning and research. Heng’s appointment is expected to leverage his extensive leadership experience and wide-reaching professional networks to fortify the university’s strategic goals, including fostering industry collaborations and enhancing philanthropic efforts. By appointing Heng, SIT aims to bolster its mission of producing industry-ready graduates through stronger ties with businesses and industry partners.
Heng expressed enthusiasm about his new role, highlighting the significance of applied research and robust industry alliances in contemporary education. He looks forward to collaborating with the university community to further the institution’s objectives. The importance of such partnerships is a central theme in Heng’s vision for SIT, reflecting the broader trends in education that emphasize practical, real-world applications and direct engagement with industry needs.
Singapore’s Education Minister, Desmond Lee, extended his congratulations to Heng on his new role, expressing confidence in Heng’s capability to steer SIT towards future growth. Lee emphasized that Heng’s wealth of experience and leadership acumen would be invaluable in guiding the university’s contributions to Singapore’s broader educational landscape.
In addition to his new responsibilities at SIT, Heng currently chairs the National Research Foundation and serves as a director of GIC, where he is also a member of the Investment Strategies Committee. His prior roles include serving as Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister from 2019 to 2025, as well as holding the positions of Education Minister from 2011 to 2015 and Finance Minister from 2015 to 2021. These experiences equip Heng with a unique perspective and skill set that he brings to his new role at SIT.