NANYANG ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS

Established in 1938, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) is Singapore’s pioneer arts institution. The academy is known for its rigorous and high-quality curriculum, innovative and practitioners-led teaching approach, diverse artistic creations and community outreach.

NAFA has nurtured 13 recipients of the Cultural Medallion – Singapore’s highest accolade bestowed on art practitioners who have significantly impacted arts and culture. Another 14 alumni have been presented the Young Artist Award. Many of the academy’s alumni have gone on to make their mark in the professional arts scene in Singapore and abroad.

NAFA’s courses are designed and delivered by experienced art educators and leading industry practitioners, NAFA’s academic schools regularly review and refine their curriculum to reflect the changing needs of the industry.

Since 1999, NAFA has received polytechnic-level funding from Singapore’s Ministry of Education. In 2011, NAFA became the first comprehensive arts education institution in Singapore to be awarded the four-year EduTrust certificate from the Council for Private Education (now known as the Committee for Private Education). It received its third four-year certification in 2019.

NAFA is also the first private arts education institution to launch a government-funded degree programme, namely the Bachelor of Music (Hons) degree course in partnership with the Royal College of Music (RCM) in London. The course marks the first time that RCM is conferring its degrees outside the United Kingdom.

As an advocate of lifelong learning, NAFA also dedicates its effort to developing a greater appreciation of the arts for all ages. With a rich heritage, established track record and an unwavering dedication to the highest standards of arts education, NAFA strives to live up to its mission “to inspire learning and growth through the arts”.