Broadening Horizons and Expanding Ambitions Through International Opportunities

One of Professor De Meyer’s key areas of focus for SMU was in the space of globalisation: it was during his tenure that overseas exposure was made a graduation requirement. He firmly believed that global exposure from the vantage of a university education is invaluable for international networking and global vision, opening doors to bigger opportunities.

He was a strong advocate for first-hand, real-world perspective of issues learnt in the classroom to deepen students’ learning and knowledge application. But more importantly, he believed that global exchange builds independence, empathy, and open-mindedness — not to mention soft skills like communication and teamwork..

Professor Arnoud De Meyer served as the fourth President of SMU from September 2010 through December 2018. Under his stewardship, the University has grown significantly, having essentially transformed from a “single product” to a “multiproduct” university, as described in his own words.

In honour of Professor De Meyer and his passion for global exposure, SMU aims to launch the Arnoud De Meyer Global Exposure Fund with the goal of providing 4 exchange scholarships valued at $5,000 each and 10 study mission grants valued at $1,000 each.

This will give financially disadvantaged undergraduate students the opportunity to explore the world beyond Singapore through overseas engagements and international learning opportunities, where students can immerse themselves in different cultural and academic environments for a fresh learning experience.