Since Singapore achieved partial self-government in 1955, economic and political considerations have reshaped educational policy and programs to support the transformation to an industrialized country. Changes in the educational systems include: more facilities for technical education and training; a reorganized secondary school system phasing out vocational schools; an Industrial Training Board (ITB) organized to meet requirements for skilled workers; and a new educational program for students not academically inclined. This Basic Course, consisting of a modified primary curriculum and workshop practice, feeds into a Junior Trainee Scheme of vocational training with many courses provided by the ITB. Course offerings reflect the manpower pyramid with its broad base of semi-skilled labor. The Adult Education Board provides additional courses which prepare students for commercial employment. Male Basic Course students may qualify for the three-year Joint Construction Trades Training Scheme, whereby they enter into a training agreement to learn one of four construction trades. The Joint Government-Industry Training Scheme provides qualifying apprentices with four years of training in precision skills. Those already in the labor force may improve their skills in numerous training programs provided by the Adult Education Board, international firms, factories, and other organizations. (SB)