SINGAPORE - As part of its restructuring into the country's sixth Autonomous University, SIM University (UniSIM) will be renamed Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) from Friday (March 17).

The new name reflects the university's mission of lifelong learning, anchored in disciplines with strong social focus.

"What will be most unique about the University is its tradition of applied education, and outreach to adult learners, all of which will be kept and strengthened," said Minister for Higher Education and Skills Ong Ye Kung.

The University will have two distinctive features.

First is its focus in the social sciences, and disciplines that have a strong impact on human and community development.

Its programmes will focus on preparing people for social sector jobs and those with strong social orientation, such as human resource management and early childhood education.

The university will still provide limited courses in other areas such as business and engineering.

Secondly, SUSS will focus on lifelong learning, and participate actively in SkillsFuture, the national movement to foster continuing education and skills development.

UniSIM has focused on adult learners since its 2005 inception, equipping them for career advancement and transitions.

Professor Cheong Hee Kiat, president of SUSS, said the school will cater to a wide range of learners while providing flexibility for their learning.

"We are committed to ensuring that SUSS remains at the forefront of innovative, flexible, and applied tertiary education through close collaboration with industry, employers, and the community in the development and design of our programmes," he said.

"Leveraging technology, our faculty will be progressive and adaptive in catering to the varied needs, backgrounds, and abilities of learners."