I welcome the Government's decision to extend eligibility for Edusave awards to polytechnic students ("Edusave awards for poly students too"; Jan 10).

The new Edusave Skills Award sends the right signal that the Government recognises the strong foundation of practical experience and technical expertise that a polytechnic education provides students.

As society continues its efforts to move beyond judging a person's worth based solely on academic qualifications, my hope is that both public- and private-sector employers also strive to expand their recognition of such non-academic awards and qualifications.

Only then will we truly become an inclusive society utilising the full potential of individuals of various talents.

Dhevarajan Devadas