SINDA Connections - Feb 2013

MICA (P) 096/09/2012

february 2013

When a Little Goes a Long Way Dads Come Out to Play Back to School, with Reason to Celebrate!

mohamed hanurdeen bin hamid

true grit and fighting spirit 02 appreciating our tutors

14 inspired to aspire!

20 scramble-o-mania

Contents

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09

17

01

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• CEO’s Note

• Scramble-O-Mania

02

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• SINDA’s First President Honoured • STEP in the Spotlight • Appreciating Our Tutors • Double Celebration, Triple Joy

10 • COVER STORY Mohamed Hanurdeen

bin Hamid: True Grit

and Fighting Spirit

03

12–19

• From Low to GO! • Teaching Good Eye Care Habits to Your Child

• Feathered Fun • Sculpt & Snap • A Quacking Good Time • Animation with Alice3 • Super Saturday

04 • Cheerful Year-End Giving to Boost Education

06 • When a Little Goes a Long Way

08

• Youths Speak Up to Build Our Future • Game 2.1 • Quick Wits and Verbal Jousts • Inspired to Aspire!

• Minding Manners • Sharing a Smile • Scoring the Chance of a Lifetime • Beyond O — Party with a Difference!

• Back to School, with Reason to Celebrate!

Publisher Singapore Indian Development Association EDITORIAL TEAM Corporate & marketing communications Division, SINDA advisor T Raja Segar, CEO, SINDA Chief Editor Ravindran Nagalingam production Editor Dhana Narayan design & layout Green House Design + Communications Pte Ltd printer Stamford Press Pte Ltd License No: L022/04/2012 TO SUBSCRIBE

• Engineering a Forumla One Car • Moving On with Confidence

SINDA CONNECTIONS To receive SINDA connections, send your home or office address to connections@sinda.org.sg

• Juniors STEP up to Challenge • Naam Ras • When I Grow Up...

To inform us of a change in mailing address, send your new address to connections@sinda.org.sg

• SINDA’s Secretary Honoured

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• How Have We Performed: Charting the Performance of Indian Students in 2011

• Daddy Revolution • Dads Come Out to Play

SINDA E-NEWSLETTER Send your email address to e-news@sinda.org.sg TO CONTRIBUTE

• Bend It Like Sundram!

• Good Goes Around • Celebrating Long-Standing Partners

towards the SINDA CPF Fund: (to start contributing or increase contributions) Tel: 1800 295 4554 www.sinda.org.sg

01

CEO’s Note

We are moving in the right direction.

T

he year 2012 was a good year with positive indications that we are indeed moving in the right direction. Our Indian students’ results for the 2011 Landmark Examinations released in late 2012 showed that we have improved in almost all indicators.

This was especially so in Mathematics at the PSLE and GCE ‘O’ Levels, the subject that Indian Singaporeans have been lagging behind most, compared to the national average scores. While we recognise that many factors would have played a role in this improvement, we feel that SINDA’s programmes and services would have contributed to this positive trend too.

2011 was a year in which we experimented with some new programme formats, while re-evaluating all of our programmes and services as part of a major review.

This review report was published in November 2011 and we reorganised the divisions to ensure that all of the recommendations were followed with new, revitalised programmes.

With the reorganised divisions, we are focused on children (including pre-schoolers), youth, parents, centre-based tuition, regular school-based tuition, educational workshops and seminars, the academic curriculum, community engagement, volunteer management, communications, marketing, governance and all other things that make SINDA a truly professional organisation.

With this structure, we have reached out to more students than ever before. The number of students in our Education programmes for 2012 stands at close to 7,000. More youths took part in our programmes and services, numbering more than 3,000 in 2012. Some 3,000 pre-school children took part in our enrichment and motivational activities, reading and numeracy programmes, and Primary 1 preparatory programmes.

We are also proud to have reached out to over 3,000 parents of our children through several workshops, seminars and camps. Engaging parents, we feel, will have the long-term impact of forming a more conducive home environment for the children to succeed in their studies and life.

On the social front, we supported more students and families with financial and counselling services. In all, 1,356 students received bursaries while SINDA’s Family

Service Centre managed 420 family cases, ensuring they receive the help they need for stable living. Among them were single mothers and their children, who were guided through courses and skill-based programmes to increase their independence and self-reliance.

As we begin to see the immediate and sustained impact of the programmes rolled out throughout the year, we know that we need to carry on for the next few years.

There is renewed belief that the Indian community will show greater achievement by being diligent students, better parents and contributing adults, leading to a more enabled community.

However, this success is achieved only with the assistance of our network of partners. I would like to thank all of the community partners who have been with us on our journey. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the SINDA Liaison Officers and Tamil Language teachers who encouraged more students who needed help to take part in our programmes; and most importantly, to parents who responded admirably to our call to play a more active role in the lives of their children.

We start again in 2013 with clearly spelt-out plans and objectives that will carry us closer towards achieving our mission. I trust that you will continue to support us in our efforts.

T Raja Segar CEO

02

At a Glance

SINDA’s First President Honoured SINDA Life Trustee and first President, Mr J Y Pillay, was feted by the Indian community at a dinner on 27 September upon his receiving the Order of Nila Utama (First Class), Singapore’s second highest honour. Mr Pillay was one of the pioneers who built post-independence Singapore, and is known for his outstanding public service.

STEP in the Spotlight The North View STEP Centre in Yishun played host to SINDA President, Ms Indranee Rajah and members of the Executive Committee and Board on 12 September.

Besides observing class activities, guests also had an opportunity to interact with students, parents and tutors at the Centre.

Appreciating Our Tutors The first-ever recipients of SINDA’s 20-year Long Service Award went to tutors from STEP, in the 5th annual Appreciation Dinner for ancillary staff of STEP and Project Teach. They were among 29 honoured for their services at the event on 22 November, graced

by Guest-of-Honour Mr Puvan Ariaratnam, Member of SINDA’s Executive Committee.

Double Celebration, Triple Joy Dr Hari Harilela, chairman of the Hong Kong-based Harilela Group, recently celebrated two big occasions — his 90th birthday and 65th wedding anniversary. SINDA, too, shared the blessings when Dr Harilela donated $250,000 towards the Dr Hari N Harilela Learning Studio at SINDA. This is the second time he has donated to SINDA, having previously funded a scholarship for $250,000 in 2008.

03

From Low to GO! W

hat do you get when you cross a quiet student who is failing maths, with a patient and dedicated tutor? Why, a Project Teach success story, of course!

Dharshana Pavithren (pictured right) is a Primary 5 student of Teck Whye Primary who joined Project Teach only last year, when he was struggling with maths grades of less than 40.

‘Ms Thepa’, as Dharshana calls her, says, “I was a little more concerned, hence I spoke a lot to him about life in general.”

As the days went by, the boy communicated more and the two found a natural rapport.

The tutor found him a mature child whose strength in language was a boon in understanding complex maths questions. A key attribute, though, was his perseverance.

Dharshana confesses, “I always got borderline marks or failed my exams, and I used to think that that would always be the case. But at the same time, I told myself to be determined and try harder.”

He certainly did try. The result? A high pass of 78 at his final exam last year!

“I feel very motivated now,” he enthuses. “I also feel that I can do a lot more. I will apply this same determination to my other subjects. I am sure I can do very well for my PSLE!” He adds, “Ms Thepa taught me the techniques to solve maths problems, and it was very helpful.” “All he needed was some brushing up on the syllabus, plus constant moral support,” his tutor notes.

Fortunately, Dharshana readily found that strong support.

“My mother is always there to lend me a hand with my school work,” he says appreciatively. “She always takes the time to clarify and explain things to me.” Ms Thepa concurs, observing that with his mother’s support Dharshana focused better on his subjects and attended his classes regularly.

Ms Thepa is happy for her student. “I am sure he will continue to climb,” she says. “I am sincerely glad to have been a tool in his success.”

Let Project Teach be a part of your success, too! If you are a primary school student looking to improve your grades, SINDA can help. Project Teach is a small-group intensive tuition programme held in school outside curriculum time.

Call us now, at 6393 6334, or find out more online, at www.sinda.org.sg/students/project-teach.

Teaching Good Eye Care Habits to Your Child A

s parents, we are naturally happy when we see our children make good use of their time by reading and studying.

Here’s how you can help your child, by teaching them good eye care habits from young and creating a conducive learning environment: Encourage your child to play outdoors more.

Encourage your child to take eye breaks by looking at objects far away, after every 30 to 40 minutes of near work activity like reading or working on a computer.

Reduce time spent on unnecessary near work, such as playing games on hand-held devices or the computer.

Ensure that your child sits upright with good posture while reading, keeping the book at arm’s length or 30 centimetres away.

Ensure that your child’s reading environment is well-lit.

Ensure that your child sits at least 50 centimetres away from the computer screen and more than 2 metres away from the television set.

Check that your child is able to read a book without holding it too close to the face and that your child is able to read from the board in class.

Remember to take your child for regular eye checks.

Your children’s eyes are their windows to the world.

Help them appreciate the world with greater clarity by encouraging good eye care habits from young. Your child will also enjoy a better quality of life with good vision.

This article is brought to you by

04

Cheerful Year-End Giving to Boost Education I

t was that wonderful time of the year again, when organisations and individuals come together in a spirit of community and giving — SINDA’s annual Project Give campaign in all its heart-warming glory.

Initiated in 2001 as a community-wide effort, Project Give encourages the community to come forward and donate generously towards the education of children in need.

Project Give 2012 was launched on 13 October by Mr Chan Chun Sing, Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports & Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Defence, at the Deepavali Light Up Ceremony in Little India. SINDA’s booth at the Deepavali Festival Bazaar in Campbell Lane saw many visits from Ministers and Members of Parliament, accompanied by various grassroots organisations and associations. Their visits were strong visible support for SINDA’s work throughout its operations from 15 October to 12 November.

The strong participation this year also featured a charity carwash on 11 November by Our Bro’s Workshop. They, together

with well-wishers from the Jamiyah Children’s Home, slogged 7 1/2 hours to wash 65 cars, cheered on by Ms Indranee Rajah and Mr Sarjit Singh, Secretary of the Executive Committee.

Elsewhere on the same day, our knights in shining armour, Riders Aid, once again rode into action with their fourth Deepavali Project Give Charity Ride. 400 motorbikes from more than 30 motorcycle chapters took part in this year’s parade from Hougang to Victoria Street.

In the culmination, Project Give reached into every home on 17 November with the one-hour variety show ‘Kaikoduppom’ on Mediacorp’s Vasantham channel. In a wonderful show of support, viewers called in to donate to the project via tele-poll lines.

All proceeds raised will be distributed to students from lowincome families through bursaries.

SINDA thanks all who have contributed, in any way, as every effort goes a long way to help our children!

05

Multi-ethnic members of various bike chapters from Riders Aid 2012, posing with Ms Indranee.

Ms Sim Ann, MP for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC visits the Project Give booth with her constituency.

People from all walks of life and ages, donating towards Project Give.

Staff from Our Bro’s Workshop diligently washing the steady stream of cars.

Mr Iswaran and members of the Singapore Kadayanallur Muslim League at the booth.

06

When a Little Goes a Long Way W

hen it comes to keeping our Indian students motivated and providing a holistic education, our teachers have plans and ideas that are usually spot-on. Unfortunately, in many cases, finances get in the way.

Some educators, however, have taken advantage of SINDA’s Community Development Account (CDA) to fund their initiatives. Introduced in 2008, the scheme initially had SINDA setting aside $500 annually for Indian Activity Executive Committee (IAEC) to draw on for community-based programmes. In 2012, this was extended to schools with SINDA Liaison Officers (SLOs), who are teachers identified as the liaison between schools and SINDA.

While the amount may seem small, consider this – there are schools and families that are already hard-pressed to fund academic programmes – by the time it comes to expanding a student’s aesthetic and cultural horizons, the kitty is often empty.

to offset the cost of tickets for the drama Sakuni, along with a NAC-Arts grant.

“One of the biggest challenges we face is that we have a small enrolment of Tamil pupils at each level,” Mrs Mohan tells us. “When we organise enrichment programmes or activities, the cost per pupil is very high, and the Tamil pupils end up having to pay more.” With the CDA funds, she was able to take 42 pupils from her primary 4, 5 and 6 cohorts to watch the drama.

She adds: “The CDA also comes in handy when we have not budgeted for an activity, because we did not have the information at the time of submitting the annual budget proposals.”

Another educator who has found the CDA “definitely beneficial” for her students is Mrs Kokilavani Vassou, Senior Tamil Teacher at Bukit View Primary School. Her primary 4 Tamil students attended a one-day Creative Writing programme, where they picked up various techniques that came in useful in their daily assignments. She says, “Although funds are available, this additional funding enables the school to plan other programmes.” She hopes to use it to take her pupils on more learning journeys in the future.

The CDA funds are open for a wide range of activities, from skills enrichment and educational tours, to youth sports and career fairs, even health promotion and family bonding events. If this is the boost that you have been looking for, give us a call to find out more.

Students explore the different fun-filled activities at the Changi Airport!

Mr Seetharaman Thangaraju, Tamil Co-ordinator at CHIJ St. Joseph’s Convent and a STEP Centre principal, notes that Edusave has already been tapped fully by school programmes. Convincing parents to pay cash for enrichment programmes is a real challenge.

And this is where the CDA has found its niche. He explains: “Added funds are always a great help in organising more programmes for students. Besides, some, like drama workshops, are costly, so the CDA makes it more affordable.”

At his school, the Tamil Language department used the account to conduct a Tamil Drama Workshop for the Secondary 2 pupils. The workshop succeeded in enhancing the students’ confidence, creative thinking, and ability to express themselves.

For many kids, the simple experiences of watching a play or recital remains out of reach. Over at Anderson Primary School, Subject Head for Tamil Mrs Mohan tapped the CDA

Students get a first-hand opportunity to observe nature at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

For more information, please contact the below: For CDA funding for IAECs, please contact Vijendran @ 6393 6292 / vijendran@sinda.org.sg For CDA funding for schools, please contact Venugopal @ 6393 6203 / venu@sinda.org.sg

STEPup

R REGISTE NOW!!

to success

To Register, please bring along copies of the following documents: - Parent’s NRIC - Student’s NRIC/BC - 2012 Final year results - Bank passbook - Last 3 months CPF Statements or Payslip (for fee subsidy)

Students who attend STEP tuition perform better in English, Mathematics and Science. With over 20 convenient locations all over Singapore, STEP tuition complements the school curriculum and prepares students for school and landmark examinations.

Key benefits of STEP tuition:

• Small class size for maximum learning • MOE-trained teachers and qualified tutors • Flexible choice of subjects • Option of 2 Mathematics classes a week • Intensive revision in June • Customised Mathematics curriculum for lower primary levels • E-Learning portal

To register, visit the nearest STEP centre For more information about STEP and centre locations, visit: http://www.sinda.org.sg/students/step/ call: 1800 - 295 - 4554 This programme is supported by Tote Board & Singapore Pools

08

SINDA’s Secretary Honoured

S

INDA’s Executive Committee Secretary, Mr Sarjit Singh (BBM) recently received the Nanyang Alumni Achievement Award 2012.

The Nanyang Alumni Achievement Award Conferred by the Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the award recognises both Mr Singh’s professional achievements as Chief Financial Officer as well as his exceptional contributions to the community and the University. Mr Singh graduated in the Class of 1991 from the Nanyang Business School.

An Outstanding Son of NTU Mr Singh’s commitment to his alma mater is evident.

Not only has he held the Presidency of the Nanyang Business School Alumni Association since 2006, but he also sits on the NTU Investment Interactive Club’s Board of Advisors. His passion for advancing NTU’s causes has seen him as guest speaker at various NTU MBA and EMBA programmes and Distinguished Alumni Forums, even mentoring graduating NTU students.

He was also Chairman of the NTU Reunion Giving Committee 2011.

Mr Singh’s contributions go further — recently, the alumnus and his wife created a $50,000 endowment fund at the university. This book prize is their legacy for final-year students in the Nanyang Business

School, to inspire and bring them that one step closer to their dreams.

This is his way of giving back, having grown up in a humble household in Singapore before finding success as a Chartered Accountant in the finance industry.

In 2007, Mr Singh became a member of the government-appointed National Longevity Insurance Committee to strengthen the Central Provident Fund (CPF) system. That same year, he was also appointed the Tax Convener and Chairman of the Tax Committee of the Life Insurance Association, Singapore.

Mr Singh has held senior leadership positions in Aviva, AIA Singapore, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia (FCA) and a Fellow of the Institute of Certified public Accountants of Singapore (FCPA).

The accolades for his significant service are steadily building up. Mr Singh has previously been honoured with the Public Service Star (BBM) in 2011, the Public Service Medal (PBM) in 2007, and the Nanyang Alumni Service Award in 2006.

Truly an inspirational leader we’re proud to have on board!

— Information courtesy of the Nanyang Technological University

09

Back to School, with Reason to Celebrate!

A

s the new year approached, 1,500 students, parents and community leaders enjoyed a great day out at the Back to School Festival at both SINDA and the Umar Pulavar Tamil Language Centre. Not just exciting activities and fun games, the programme included workshops and a live Vasantham show, but the highlight of the morning was the annual Indian Community Bursary Awards Ceremony.

Joining SINDA’s long-standing partners, the Tamils Representative Council (TRC) and the Singapore Indian Education Trust (SIET) for the first time were four familiar community organisations — the Hindu Endowments Board (HEB), the Little India Shopkeepers & Heritage Association (LISHA), the People’s Association Indian Activity Executive Committees Co-ordinating Council (Narpani Pearavai)

Dr Mohamed Maliki Bin Osman, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Defence & Ministry of National Development and Mayor for South East District delivering his address at ICBAC.

and the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI).

Together, they were proud to present 1,200 students with bursaries worth $932,000 and school kits each worth $120 for the new academic year.

In a further boost for the community, three prominent academic providers signed Memorandums of Understanding with SINDA to provide a total of 24 scholarships at tertiary level annually for the next three years. With the help from Kaplan Singapore, the Management Development Institution of Singapore (MDIS) and PSB Academy Pte Ltd, Indian students can now look forward to more opportunities to further their studies for a brighter future.

Together with receiving school kits, kids received an opportunity to have fun at various carnival booths.

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True Grit and Fighting Spirit He has a dream to represent Singapore at the Olympic Games, and he is fighting to make it a reality. Boxer Mohamed Hanurdeen bin Hamid is only 19, but is already a Gold medallist in the Malaysian championships, and has donned Singapore’s colours at the Southeast Asian Games, the Youth Olympic Games, world boxing championships and several international meets.

Having completed his NITEC in Fitness Training, this SINDA Excellence Award 2012 for Special Colours winner takes time while awaiting admission to Republic Polytechnic to talk to SINDA Connections.

What were your growing up years like?

I was a real mischievous boy in school and would often get into trouble. I had to go see my discipline master all the time. I was just too lazy and playful.

I picked up boxing because of my elder brother.

He wanted me to be occupied, instead of getting distracted by other things. I don’t know – I might have mixed with wrong company if not for boxing.

Once I started boxing, I knew in my heart that this was the sport for me.

You have received many awards and accolades, including the SINDA Excellence Award for your achievements. How do you feel about all this recognition?

I am humbled by it. All these awards motivate me.

They push me even harder to succeed.

As for all the competitions I’ve participated in, though I have won some and lost some, it is rewarding to even have been selected to take part in them.

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What/who are the inspirations in your life?

Have there been challenging moments?

My biggest inspiration is and always will be my mum. She has long been the sole bread winner of the family. She works in a food stall, and often has to get up as early as 4am for work.

Juggling my studies and boxing is tough as it means I have no time for social activities, but I understand that great things come with sacrifice, so I just keep going.

It is definitely not easy to support three growing-up boys, yet she keeps at it with dogged determination. Every time I feel like giving up, I will think of her support and strength.

Some people have tried to bring me down by demoralising me; that has been mentally very challenging. I try to ignore them, believe in myself and believe that someday something great will happen.

My coach Bala is famous for his humour and motivational speeches. He always encourages me when I’m down. In the early stages when so many things were demoralising, he taught me not to give up and always believe in myself.

My coach, my former secondary school teacher and most importantly my mum – they all supported me and taught me so many different things about life. I do not know where I would be, if not for them. I just feel blessed and lucky to have all these people in my life.

I have a fire within me to perform at my best and will let nothing bring me down.

What values guide you?

One must always stay positive, no matter what people say.

Also, it is important to work hard and stay humble.

Do you believe that youth should pursue their dreams, no matter how difficult it may be to achieve them?

Definitely. Nothing comes easy, constant hard work and patience is the key to success.

We should work hard and never stop pursuing our dreams. This is my belief.

If you could sum up your life and experiences in a phrase?

Never quit!

Hamurdeen with his trainers, who have been the bedrock of his success.

Hamurdeen with his younger brother, Ajmil. The brothers build a cohesive bond by training together.

“Once I started boxing, I knew in my heart that this was the sport for me.”

12

Feathered Fun

Sculpt & Snap

F

T

ancy handling wriggly worms? More than 20 Secondary 1 to 3 students got the chance to feed the squirmy creatures to starlings at the African Waterfall Aviary this holiday. Over 12 and 13 December, the pupils camped out at the Jurong Bird Park for its ‘Birds of a Feather’ programme.

They not only got a peek behind the scenes at the avian hospital and breeding centre, but also had the rare opportunity of a nocturnal exploration with penguins after learning to build their confidence in unfamiliar environments.

A Quacking Good Time 67

children took a wacky ride on a quacky craft — the amphibious DUCK from Singapore DUCKtours. For an hour on 18 December, they drove through the city streets then slipped into the harbour for a sail around, all the while learning fun facts about Singapore. A memorable way to see our city, indeed!

he iconic ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay was where more than 20 secondary school students spent the day on 17 December for a doublebill exhibit and photography workshop. Inspired by ‘Outside In: A Magnum Photos Showcase’ — a rare showcase of works by three lauded photographers, and ‘The Art of Brick’, a stunning display of LEGO sculptures, the students exercised their creativity to develop their own photograms.

Animation with Alice3 13

students from Primary 4–6 were transported from SINDA’s IT Lab into the world of animation when they met Alice3 on 7 December. The innovative 3D programming environment was created by Carnegie Mellon University and funded by Oracle, who presented this workshop in collaboration with SINDA. For most of the kids, this was their first exposure to the Java programming language, and an eye-opening introduction to computer science.

Super Saturday M

ore than 80 10- to 12-year olds turned into superheroes when they descended upon Resorts World Sentosa on 24 November. Their groups, Justice League, Avengers, X-Men and Incredibles were facilitated by volunteers from the National Institute of Education, who led them in hilarious team-building games.

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Youths Speak Up to Build Our Future

GAME 2.1 It isn’t easy navigating teen years, especially if you don’t have someone guiding you. That’s where SINDA’s Guidance and Mentorship programme, GAME 2.1 comes into play.

Offering friendship, support and guidance to 15-year-olds in the Indian community, it aims to empower the youths to make meaningful life choices and improve their performance in school.

T

he programme line-up, over several months from 27 October 2012, comprised hot topics pertinent to teens, with sessions on making new friends, building self-esteem and improving communication, among others.

60 youths aged between 19 and 35 engaged in an energetic dialogue, ‘Building a Home with Hope and Heart: The Role of Young Change Agents’, on 18 October.

T

he dialogue was a collaborative effort between SINDA’s Youth Club, Mendaki Club, Young Sikh Association, Eurasian Association and the Chinese Development Assistance Council, and supported by the National Youth Council.

The youths had ample opportunity to bond with the volunteer mentors and SINDA Youth Development officers over bowling, movies, rock-climbing, kayaking and laser tag. In addition, they completed a Short Film project using all the skills they picked up.

The mentorship continues this year with three booster sessions and regular contact for at least six months after the structured programme ended in February. Given the positive outlook, SINDA looks forward to seeing some of the mentees coming back to GAME to contribute as peer leaders and mentors!

Their voices were heard by then Senior Minister of State for Education and Information, Communications and the Arts Lawrence Wong, who is now Singapore’s first Youth Minister, and is also a member of the ‘Our Singapore Conversation’ Committee. He said, “Our young people want to make a difference, and if we can unleash that energy and passion, I think they will be able to make a difference in our society.”

Quick Wits and Verbal Jousts For those who had always admired the rapidfire repartee of a debate and wondered if they had what it takes, SINDA’s Youth Club (SYC) had the answer.

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he first-ever SYC Debate Experience, an English debating workshop for Indian students, was held on 20 October for 79 students from 19 secondary schools.

At the helm was Ms Geetha Creffield, Head of Arts at the Anglo-Chinese Junior College (ACJC), and coach for the Singapore National Debate Team.

Besides honing their oratorical and analysis skills, this was a good opportunity for the students to network and make friends. The workshop culminated in a friendly competition.

14

Inspired to Aspire!

We all know the drill ­— do your work, study hard, and you’ll be all set for your career. It then comes as a shock to many of us when we find there are still letters and résumés to write and interviews to attend. Are we really prepared?

P

roject Aspire is an initiative by youth leaders across several universities and disciplines, which aims to equip post-secondary and tertiary students with the soft skills that will stand them in good stead as they pursue their careers.

Minding Manners F

irst impressions count — so you’d better make a good one! 100 students who attended Camp Arise in June signed up for the camp’s 2nd booster session held at Swenson’s ION Orchard on 5 November. There, they learnt the art of communication through positive body language, and picked up the finer points of personal grooming and dining etiquette. A definite boost for confidence and self-esteem!

On 8 December, nearly 100 participants attended the one-day workshop at SINDA to pick up key interview, portfolio assembly and goal-setting skills.

This was no run-of-the-mill seminar. Instead, the highly interactive format allowed the students to learn as much as possible from the Project Aspire team, which also included an engineer, a doctor, lawyers and even a diplomat. The diversity of experience on the table ensured participants left with new confidence for the working world.

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Sharing a Smile F

ive students from SINDA’s Senior Victory (SV) school-based motivational programme put their positive developmental skills learnt through SV to good use in October. The girls from St Margaret’s Secondary co-ordinated a half-day motivational workshop, Project Smile, for 13 young beneficiaries.

It wasn’t just the pre-schoolers who benefitted from the reading, music & movement and art activities. The SV students, too, in organising the programme, got to learn more about responsibility and service to the community.

Beyond O — Party with a Difference!

It was an O-Level graduation party like no other for about 100 students. Partying right alongside at the Velvet Underground, Zouk on the afternoon of 20 November were experts from the education industry, with Dr Maliki Osman, Mayor of the South East District, as Guest-of-Honour.

T

he SINDA-organised party, aptly dubbed ‘Beyond O’, was led by youth volunteers from the South East Youth-to-Youth (Y2Y) Network.

They, alongside educators and representatives from higher education institutions engaged the graduating students on issues they face in deciding their next steps after the O-Levels.

The forum explored available options, including information on scholarship opportunities. With the encouragement and ‘market knowledge’ from their peers and the experts, the O-Level graduates felt empowered to take the right course of action for them, with the eventual aim of obtaining a degree. After that, it was no problem to party on with confidence!

Scoring the Chance of a Lifetime Meeting a football legend is something many fans only dream of, but on 13 October, 60 lucky children and youths from SINDA met not one but three English Premier League (EPL) greats.

I

n Singapore for the inaugural EPL Masters Football Singapore Cup, former Liverpool defender Stephane Henchoz, former Chelsea striker Tore Andre Flo and former Ajax striker Michael Mols took time out to coach the teens in a soccer clinic. Demonstrating the skills that made them famous, the three football stars really made the teens’ day when they performed tricks for them. It will be an experience to remember for the 60, who now have signed autographs to show off.

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Engineering a Formula One Car SINDA kids vroomed into action again, in a manic four-day F1 Experience Workshop from 19–22 November. Once again, the programme sanctioned

by Bernie Ecclestone and the F1 Management did not fail to rouse the kids’ enthusiasm, winning rave reviews from participants.

T

he 78 Primary 4–6 students collaborated on actual engineering processes to design, analyse, manufacture and test their own miniature gas-powered balsa wood F1 cars.

Race Day at Henderson Secondary School was the climax all were waiting for, and were they thrilled when they saw the track! The excitement was palpable as the kids anxiously awaited their turn, and everyone was awed by the exhilarating speeds the cars reached. If anything, it must surely have helped take the Pri 6 students’ minds off their PSLE results being released that same day!

Moving On with Confidence With every transition there will be anxiety, and the move from Primary to Secondary School can give both students and parents sleepless nights.

’I

t’s Your Move’, a workshop on 8 December at Republic Polytechnic for children starting Secondary 1 and their parents, sought to ease the change. The pre-teens picked up tips on coping not just with an advanced syllabus but also the biological and emotional changes many would be experiencing at this age. Parents, separately, were offered strategies for helping their children manage Secondary School life better.

It was a fun and interactive morning for all, who left equipped for success at their next stage of life.

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Naam Ras Juniors STEP up to Challenge One morning, 11 STEP Centres, three challenges. A total of 110 Primary 1–4 students STEPped up to the 2012 SINDA Junior Challenge at SINDA on 3 September to vie for honours in English, Maths and Science.

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he Pri 1s and 2s showed their mettle in a Spelling Bee, while the Pri 3s cracked Maths problems and the Pri 4s competed in Science. With 10 students and one tutor from each Centre represented, competition was keen, and many parents came to support their children. All participants received well-deserved medals while the winners walked away with trophies.

Four days of music and culture beckoned the largest gathering of Sikhs in Singapore last year, in a festive end to 2012.

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ailing from as far away as Australia, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, the visitors joined almost the entire Sikh and North Indian community of Singapore at the Singapore Expo. The cultural celebration offered the audience of almost 20,000 a smorgasbord of events, including historical exhibitions and discourses, as well as classical and contemporary music performed by leading Sikh artistes.

SINDA’s own Sikh tutors and volunteers supported the event, which was held from 27 to 30 December, manning a SINDA booth carrying our programmes and services for the community.

When I Grow Up… Doctor, lawyer, teacher, chef…what do children dream they’ll be? To inspire them, several booths each featuring a specific occupation allowed our primary school-goers to imagine what they could be in the future.

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he uniquely-themed SINDA Children’s Day Carnival found this learning experience, meant to nurture aspirations, fitted right in the fun-filled atmosphere at Woodlands Secondary School on 6 October. About 500 children and parents bonded over the carnival games and rides in a wonderful celebration of childhood.

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Daddy Revolution The success of the Father-Child Bonding Experience Camp in May 2012 inspired a Tamil segment, the Conference for Indian Fathers (CIF), on 29 September.

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t was at the former event that auxiliary police officer Rajkumar Raman, 32, realised that fathers had to get more involved in their children’s lives. As he said then, “It’s not a job, it’s a long-term relationship; and you have to learn how to build it, how to care for and bring up your kid.”

Center of Singapore. Panellists for the discussion included retired military officer and grassroots leader Mr M Govindaraju and senior consultant in Indian arts, healthcare and social services Dr Uma Rajan.

The participating fathers were inspired to record their thoughts in a letter to themselves, to be posted to them after two months. It was a good end to the Conference, and the fathers can look forward to being key figures in their children’s successes.

This latest CIF continued to stress the importance and evoke the emotional aspect of fatherhood. An open platform on the challenges and pressures fathers face, the CIF brought home to the 88 participants how paternal involvement positively affects their children.

Sharing their personal experiences were keynote speakers Mr S Manogaran, Executive Director of the Academy of Singapore Teachers (MOE) and previous CEO of SINDA, and Mr T Padmanathan, Morale Welfare Recreation Marketing Specialist for the Navy Region

Dads Come Out to Play So many dads, of all ages and backgrounds, came together on 2 December with one common purpose — to have fun with their families! And what fun it was, when the daddies were all brimming with enthusiasm, so contagious that the kids and mums couldn’t help but share the excitement.

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collaboration between SINDA and Dads for Life, an initiative of the National Family Council and supported by the Health Promotion Board, the Family Bonding Camp was an entirely sponsored event for fathers who had previously attended SINDA’s various parenting programmes.

Kitchen helper Mr K Thenarasu, 48, was one of the fathers who gave up relaxing on Sunday to go on the adventure trail at Fort Canning Park. “Let’s get some family exercise, brother!” he exhorts the others. “We can really do with more daddies out here!”

The inaugural camp certainly met its objectives of improving family dynamics as the rapport between fathers and children was plainly on display. With this chance to apply the parenting approaches learnt during earlier workshops, the daddies’ spirits were obviously high, as they engaged in immensely fun activities, such as laughter yoga, with their families.

55-year-old Mr A R J Sathik took leave from work and ended up playing water bombs with his son and wife.

“I decided to keep up with him rather than making my interaction with him dull. Kids these days need a lot of engagement rather than just being given good advice,” he told us. His son Nigmal, 14, whole-heartedly agreed, saying, “I felt even closer to him today!”

The 300 participants from 70 families know that activities like this strengthen family bonds, and they couldn’t get enough. “It was both fun and healthy,” said Mr A S Murugan, 45. “I expect this in the coming years, too!”

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Bend It Like Sundram!

Good Goes Around

We all know that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. SINDA is ready to help you be that all-rounder who can hold his own, and who better to inspire our football-loving youths than Singapore’s own FAS greats?

The IBR (Indian Businessmen’s Roundtable) has continued making an impact in our community since its start last year.

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In a second meaningful dialogue for 2012 on 8 October, the executive expatriates and locals discussed local and regional economies, with Mr Ravi Menon, Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

f you’ve ever wanted to play in the limelight, here is your chance. Under a brand new Soccer Development scheme, STEP students from four affiliated centres will get a chance to be recruited by three top S. League clubs — Home United, SAFFC and Woodlands Wellington.

IBR Dialogue

Offering Clearer Vision

While the details have yet to be confirmed, STEP students in this pilot scheme can look forward to being enrolled in highly-subsidised soccer clinics that will include your kits as well as the training. The plan is for the FAS to organise friendly tourneys among the STEP Centres over time. It will be a win-win situation where the FAS can promote local football while caring for the community, and kids have an incentive to join STEP classes and boost their academic results.

Essilor brought clarity to 29 SINDA students before the new school year with a gift of new spectacles. IBR member and Essilor President Mr Jayanth Bhuvraghan, together with Mr Raja Segar, SINDA CEO presented the children with their preferred frames after vision checks

by Essilor optometrists. Being able to see clearly and easily will be a great help in the students’ education.

Their parents were also given an informative talk on vision care.

FAS players will also be visiting STEP Centres every quarter and making appearances at SINDA events. So, get your boots on and sprint down to the following STEP Centres to score a slot: Mayflower Secondary School (recruiting for Home United); Fajar Secondary School (SAFFC); Woodlands Ring Secondary School and Marsiling Primary School (Woodlands Wellington).

Helping Hands from Standard Chartered Bank ‘Here for Good’, goes the Standard Chartered Bank (SCB) slogan, and doing good is what 35 SCB staff did at SINDA’s Back To School Festival on 1 December.

From packing backpacks to distributing them; and organising an Art Jam and games booth for 200 students, to handing out packed lunches, the volunteers through IBR certainly contributed to the event’s success.

Celebrating Long-Standing Partners I

n an inaugural appreciation ceremony, SINDA celebrated its continuing partnership with schools and SINDA Liaison Officers (SLOs). Numbering almost 250, these SLOs are dayschool teachers who have partnered SINDA in the holistic development of Indian students in their schools.

Together with honouring and re-appointing these educators, tribute was also paid to schools and principals for their strong support of SINDA. Gracing the ceremony was Mr Hawazi Daipi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Manpower.

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Scramble-O-Mania This contest is only open to children in Primary Schools in Singapore. Three images are provided below and their names are scrambled.

Guess the names correctly to win! 3 correct entries will each win a $50 voucher.

Name:

The winning correct entries would be picked from a lucky draw. Judges’ decision is final.

Winners would be contacted by SINDA to collect their prize and winners’ names would be published in the next SINDA connections.

BC No:

School:

Contact No:

School Level:

IZCIHNATCHE

Please submit your entries together with your particulars to SINDA Children Division, No 1 Beatty Road.

Singapore 209943 by 10 April 2013.

Address:

MESUCOSOL

CUAHCCPUMIH

Congratulations to the winner of the previous issue’s contest!

Prabuddha Lara Primary 1 Sembawang Primary School

ABOUT US VISION To build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together MISSION To build a well-educated, resilient and confident community of Indians that stands together with the other communities in contributing to the progress of multi-racial Singapore VALUES Respect, our culture Integrity, our foundation Service, our promise Excellence, our pursuit

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Patron Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong Chairman, Board of Trustees Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam Life Trustees Prof S Jayakumar Mr S Dhanabalan Mr S Chandra Das Mr J Y Pillay Mr Sat Pal Khattar Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam Mr K Shanmugam Dr N Varaprasad Term Trustees Mr Inderjit Singh Ms Indranee Rajah Mr Haider M Sithawalla Mr Bobby Chin Yoke Choong Mr M Rajaram

Mr V Shankar Mr Ravi Menon Mr R Jayachandran Mr Hsieh Fu Hua Mr Girija Pande Mr Gautam Banerjee MG Ravinder Singh Justice Judith Prakash Mr K Kesavapany Advisors Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Mr S Iswaran Mr Hri Kumar Nair EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Ms Indranee Rajah Vice Presidents Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai, PBM

Secretary Mr Sarjit Singh, BBM Treasurer Mr Subramaniam Iyer Members Mr V P Jothi Mr R Rajaram Mr Aaron Maniam Mr Naseer Ghani Mr Puvan Ariaratnam Mr P Thirunal Karasu, BBM Dr Joshua V M Kuma Resource Panel Members Mr K V Rao Ms M Nirmala Mr P B Desai Dr Sivasankaran Subramaniam Mr Mohamed Abdul Jaleel, PBM Ms Sabanitha Shanmugasundram Mr Sajen G Aswani

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HOW HAVE WE PERFORMED? Charting the Performance of Indian Students in 2011

Source: MOE Press Release, 29 October 2012, Performance by Ethnic Group in National Examinations 2002-2011

PSLE % who passed PSLE

% with A*–C in...

Overall

97.7 97.3

100

84.2

80

Indian

90.5 86.3

77.2

60

97.4

96.1

Overall

Indian

40 20 0

O-Levels % with at least 5 passes

English Language

Mathematics

Science

% who passed...

100

87.6

Overall 91.1

89

80

Indian

79.1

60

81.6

73.8

Overall

Indian

40 20 0

English Language

Mathematics

A-Levels

Post-Secondary

% who passed general paper or knowledge and inquiry

% admitted to post-secondary institutions Overall

100 80

95.1

96.8

60 40 20

Overall

Indian

0

94.1

90.8

Indian

SINGAPORE