Permanent secretary (education development) at the Education Ministry, Mr Neo Kian Hong, has been appointed to the National University of Singapore Board of Trustees. His appointment takes effect from Thursday.

Mr Neo, who is also former chief of defence, replaces permanent secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Community & Youth Ms Yeoh Chee Yan on the board.

Ms Yeoh served on the Board from 2008 to 2013. The Board's chairman Mr Wong Ngit Liong said: "The university has benefited greatly from Ms Yeoh's insights and experience as well as her unwavering and dedicated support, and passion for education and students."

The Board of Trustees includes business leaders, academics, entrepreneurs, and professionals from the public and private sectors. Its functions includes working closely with the management to shape the vision and develop programmes and initiatives for the university.