As a country with the highest per capita investment in Science and Technology in the world, it’s no surprise that a massive project like Science Centre Singapore is currently in the works. However, more than the main objective of fostering STEM education further, the new centre will feature “Science meets Nature” for the public, which everyone expects to bring in more interest.
Brief History
Previously called the Singapore Science Centre, it was part of the National Museum, but the government decided to convert it into a new institution in 1969 in order for the museum to focus more on arts and history collections.
The Science Centre Singapore, on the other hand, was aimed to be the cornerstone of technological and scientific education in the Lion City. The idea was originally coined by the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research, then known as the Science Council of Singapore.
The 60,000 square meter building, costing roughly SG$12 million, successfully opened on December 10, 1977. From then on, it has seen a couple of renovations, but the Urban Development Authority declared in 2008 that the government planned to transfer the facility to its current project location in 10 to 15 years.
Science Centre Singapore Project Overview
As the building is within the Jurong Lake District, it will maximize visitors’ experience, who not only will be awed by the wonders of science and technology but will have an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature via the lake’s gorgeous landscapes and the surrounding gardens.
The new building will total 55,000 square meters in size, which is around 25% bigger than the current building. The completion will coincide with the Centre’s 50th anniversary in 2027. Zaha Hadid Architects designed it in collaboration with Architects 61 PTE Ltd.
Some of the planned amenities of the building include rooftop gardens, an immense outdoor plaza, and extensive windows. All of these will provide sweeping views of Jurong Lake, as well as the nature trails.
The building comprises five connected units containing a wide array of interactive labs, exhibition galleries, and different facilities and events spaces, as well as admin offices and service areas.
The design gives the centre-goers the feeling that the building floats above the parkland, and its gardens and courtyards lead from the MRT station to the Chinese Garden. It will also feature a new Observatory, a Digital Fabrication Lab, and a Makerspace. Learners will definitely not run out of things to enjoy and discover.
Groundbreaking Ceremony
The Science Centre Board held the groundbreaking ceremony on November 1, 2023, for the new Science Centre Singapore, adjacent to the Chinese Garden MRT station. The project aims to be one of the main attractions for the Jurong Lake District.
Among those who officiated the ceremony are the following:
- Mr Chan Chun Sing – Minister for Education
- Associate Professor Lim Tit Meng – Chief Executive of the Science Centre Board
- Ms Tan Yen Yen – Chairman of the Science Centre Board
- Mr Teo Chee Hean – Patron of Science Centre Board
The Centre will also feature immersive learning, cutting-edge technology, and interactive exhibits that will definitely encourage kids to explore science more than ever. There are also plans to partner with program developers to come up with exhibitions that encourage parents and guardians alike to actively participate in activities to support and boost children’s learning experiences.
In the end, the ultimate goal is for people of all ages and all walks of life to not only want to visit and be entertained but also leave the venue with kindled interest or even awakening strong enough for them to delve deeper into science and technology.
Factsheet
Owner: Government of Singapore
Project: Science Centre
Developer: Science Centre Board
Location: Boon Lay Way / Jurong Lake District, Singapore
Contractor: Obayashi Singapore Private Limited
Value: Estimated SG$639.50m
Construction Start: June 2024
Construction End: October 2027
