Singapore, 16 January 2014…  The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Economic Society of Singapore (ESS) today launched the 12th MAS-ESS Essay Competition. The theme for this year’s competition is “Why is it difficult to boost productivity in Singapore? What further policy changes could help to achieve this goal?”

2   Writers should examine the challenges that companies face in sustaining a high level of productivity to remain competitive in a global environment. They should propose innovative approaches to boost productivity and achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Singapore.

3   The essay competition is open to all pre-university students in Singapore, regardless of nationality, as well as pre-university Singaporean students studying abroad.  The competition also invites submissions from Polytechnic, Centralised Institute, International School and Junior College students.  The following prizes will be awarded for the three best essays:

First Prize         $3,000
Second Prize     $2,000
Third Prize        $1,000

4   The terms and conditions as well as entry forms for the MAS-ESS Economic Essay Competition are available on the ESS website (http://www.ess.org.sg ). The closing date for the submission of entries is 16 May 2014.