Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the students and faculty of Nanyang Technological University (NTU) on the second day of his three-day visit to the city state of Singapore and identified technology as the driver of human history.

“Technology is what empowers people. A technology-driven society breaks social barriers,” the PM said as he took questions from the students of the prestigious university which is consistently ranked among the best in the world.

“We should not see every disruption as destruction. People were apprehensive about computers but see how computers changed human history,” added the PM.

Calling for the need for affordable and user-friendly technology, the PM highlighted how space technology has shaped the progress of the human race.

“Greater use of space technology augurs well for human progress,” he said.

Pointing at how weather predictions have become more accurate through advancements in space technology, the PM said that its application is also tremendously helping fishermen.

“Space technology helps us in properly mapping our development infrastructure such as understand where more schools, hospitals, and roads should come up,” said the PM.

In the session moderated by NTU’s president Professor Subra Suresh, the PM said that the world has progressed through the ages due to a balance between innovation, ethics and humanitarian values.

“Technology is aiding human creativity. Various social media platforms have given voice to millions,” he added.

When asked about the challenges faced by Asia, the PM said that every challenge should be seen as an opportunity.

“The world is clear that the 21st century is Asia’s century. It is essential to believe in ourselves and know that this is our turn. We must rise to the occasion and take that leadership,” he said.

Underlining the need for furthering connectivity without any conflict, the PM cited the examples of India and China, “who dominated global trade for centuries and at the same time had no conflict”.

Before the interaction, various MoUs are being inked which will boost collaboration with NTU and enhance research and innovation among students of India.

The PM also planted a Neem tree at the University campus.

Earlier on Friday, PM Modi held bilateral talks with Singaporean PM Lee Hsien Loong during which eight agreements, including those on strategic and economic cooperation, were signed.