The government of Singapore is set to further support its aging population by endorsing a plan to build an 'intelligent city' for all ages. This includes supporting lifelong learning and employment for seniors, volunteerism, urban infrastructure, healthcare, retirement adequacy and research. The plan, which calls to 'celebrate longevity', is slated for release next year, and will involve communications with unions, employers and human resource practitioners to attempt to understand how to integrate the talents and growth opportunities of an older population.

The news comes as Singapore's Nanyang Technological University (NTU) launches a new $30 million 3D printing research centre to pioneer new approaches to medicine and construction, including biomedical devices to regrow bone and print human tissue, in addition to new construction systems. This research comes as part of a $5 million agreement with local company SLM solutions, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. 3D Printing has even been endorsed by the Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry and National Development Lee Yi Shyan, as an important future technology.

Stem cell research has also been given a boost with news of market leader Mesoblast's new partnership with the Economic Development Board (EDB) and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). Mesoblast will be Singapore’s first proprietary, commercial company within the stem cell therapy sector. If successful, it is expected that treatments for cardiovascular problems, orthopaedics, and inflammatory diseases will become viable.

These developments will strengthen Singapore's growth as a research hub, while improving healthcare and infrastructure for its aging citizens. In terms of developments for education, the above trends may mean an increased demand for niche qualifications in biomedicine and construction.

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