NUS and NTU Face Surprising Challenge: Surging Chinese Tourist Influx Disrupting Student Life!

SINGAPORE: In a surprising twist, the Wall Street Journal highlighted the unusual struggles faced by students at two of Singapore's top universities, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS). The article, titled "Singapore College Students’ Toughest Test Is Dodging Chinese Tourists," caught the attention of many this week.

While it might seem strange to outsiders, this issue is well-known among Singaporeans. Locally, reports have surfaced consistently since the start of the year, documenting how an overwhelming number of tourists, primarily from China, have been affecting the daily lives of students at these prestigious institutions. Complaints from students have ranged from overcrowded campus facilities to disruptions during lectures—where entire tour groups have intruded into classrooms.

In response to the growing frustration, NTU announced on February 1 that travel agencies must now gain prior approval before bringing large groups onto campus. Furthermore, NTU indicated that they would implement an entrance fee to help maintain the campus environment. NUS has also taken action by increasing their security staff to ensure that only registered students and faculty access their internal shuttle buses.

Students are feeling the impact the most during peak times. A Reddit user recently shared a particularly frustrating experience where three tourist buses, packed with 30 to 40 people each, arrived at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences in rapid succession. This surge of visitors has made it nearly impossible for students to utilize essential campus services like canteens and libraries, with one student lamenting the dreadful situation in the restrooms during time-constrained breaks.

The article referenced a recent graduate who remarked on the phenomenon, saying, “I think to them it’s like observing zoo exhibits.” This sentiment reflects a growing discomfort among students as they navigate their academic environment while adapting to the influx of curious tourists.

The popularity of NTU and NUS can be attributed not only to their high academic standards and reputation but also to their stunning architecture, particularly the Hive, which has become a sensation on Chinese social media. Known for its unique design resembling a dim sum basket, it attracts numerous visitors, further exacerbating the congestion on campus.

As the travel scene revives, fueled by a post-pandemic rush of tourists from China, NUS has announced plans to introduce additional measures by early next year, specifically before the busy Lunar New Year travel period. A spokesperson for NUS reiterated, “NUS is first and foremost an academic institution and not a tourist destination,” underscoring the priority of maintaining a conducive learning environment.

With the ongoing challenges, we'll have to watch as these universities adapt to this unexpected situation. Will this influx of tourists change the university experience for Singapore's students forever? Stay tuned!