Marking this important milestone in their almost two decade-long collaboration, a ceremony was held on 13 October 2022 at Duke University’s Allen Building in Durham, USA. The Phase IV Agreement was signed by Professor Vincent E Price, Duke University President; Professor Tan Eng Chye, NUS President; and Duke University Chancellor for Health Affairs Professor Eugene Washington, who is also President and CEO of Duke University Health System. The inking of the agreement, which is for the next five years, was acknowledged and supported by Duke-NUS Governing Board Chairman Mr Goh Yew Lin. Representatives from Singapore’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Health joined the signing ceremony virtually.
Duke-NUS’ focus on academic medicine to translate cutting-edge research discoveries into real- world healthcare solutions has grown it into a key player in Singapore’s dynamic biomedical ecosystem, contributing to the nation’s vision of being the biomedical hub of Asia through its innovative medical education and impactful translational research.
“Duke-NUS has distinguished itself as an innovative education and research powerhouse that develops high-potential individuals to become not just exemplary clinicians but also capable researchers and critical thinkers,” said NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye. “As the School moves into its next phase with renewed commitment, Duke-NUS, through its unique “Clinicians First, Clinicians Plus” pedagogy and highly interactive flipped-classroom educational philosophy, is well positioned to be part of NUS’ strategic priority to offer multidisciplinary educational pathways and support Singapore’s aspirations for a healthier nation and develop an ecosystem of support for better health for all Singaporeans.”
Playing a leading role in combatting COVID-19, Duke-NUS has demonstrated its scientific excellence through innovations, including the first authorised surrogate virus neutralisation test, cPassTM. The School also pioneered innovative solutions in medical education, such as its COVID- safe methods for conducting high-stakes clinical examinations.
“Duke-NUS’ many accomplishments and growing reputation are a testament to the attractiveness of the School’s education model, which is unique in Singapore’s higher education landscape, and to the quality and impact of its research,” said Duke-NUS Governing Board Chairman Mr Goh Yew Lin. “Working with national and global partners, Duke-NUS is well positioned to continue our leadership in key focal areas that underpin the future of healthcare in Singapore and beyond through ground-breaking discoveries and innovative solutions.”
The School’s mandate for the next five years is to continue its pursuit of academic excellence in medical education and research and ensure the translation of breakthroughs into innovations that reach the public domain to improve lives.
“Since its founding, Duke-NUS has grown from strength to strength, and the signing of the Phase IV Agreement reflects the robust confidence our stakeholders have in the School,” said Duke-NUS Dean Professor Thomas Coffman. “As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting Singapore’s vibrant biomedical ecosystem by combining education with care, and research with innovation to enable our students, scientists and clinicians to transform medicine and improve lives.”