It marks a significant milestone- 20 years since the first exercise in 2004 as the Direct School Admission ( DSA ) selection process begins this year.
The DSA scheme allows students to use their talents in areas such as sports, music and leadership, among others, to secure admission into secondary schools or junior colleges (JCs ) before they even sit for the Primary School Leaving Examination ( PSLE ) or O-Level examinations.  ,
This alternative route has gained popularity, especially among individuals who may not thrive professionally, as it offers them a chance to get into their preferred institutions.
Nevertheless, the DSA system has not been without controversy. According to critics, the DSA program gains children from wealthy families who can afford personal instruction and preparation classes.
It is also very competitive. Last month, 38, 088 Primary 6 kids sat for the PSLE. Almost 40 per cent of the population, or 14, 500 learners, submitted a report 38, 000 DSA programs. Of those, just about one-third, or 4, 400 individuals ( about 11 per cent of the population ), succeeded in their programs.
Why is the DSA initiative but popular? Is it losing nearly as much of an importance as the PSLE in the move from main to extra school?