SINDA Connections - Feb 2012

MICA (P) 123 ⁄ 08 ⁄ 2011

SINDA 2020: A New Momentum – Surging forward as a community (P06) FEBRUARY 2012

Contents SINDA

STUDENTS

STUDENTS

STUDENTS

STUDENTS

CEO’s Message ( P01) A Community's Blessing ( P 02) STEP Tuition 2012 ( P 03) Confidence through Drama (P04) Holiday Enrichment Programmes ( P 05)

SINDA

SINDA 2020: A New Momentum Unveiled ( P 06)

SINDA

A Toast to the Future ( P10)

Editorial Team Advisor:

Mr T Raja Segar, CEO, SINDA

Writers & Designer: Green House Design +

Communications Pte Ltd

Editors:

Corporate & Marketing Communications Division, SINDA

Printer:

Stamford Press Pte Ltd

To Subscribe SINDA connections: Send your home or office address to connections@sinda.org.sg (inform us if there’s a change in address)

e-Newsletter:

YOUTH

Mountaineer Inspires Youth ( P12)

FAMILY

Dr Balaji Sadasivan Remembered ( P13)

To contribute

VOLUNTEER

Riders Aid Rides Again ( P14)

VOLUNTEER

Celebrate! Sharing Festive Cheer ( P15)

(to start contributing or increase contributions) – – Tel: 1800 295 4554 – – www.sinda.org.sg

Send your email ID to e-news@sinda.org.sg

Towards the SINDA CPF Fund:

Watch videos on your Smartphone! Look out for these Quick Response (QR) Codes in this issue!

A QR (Quick Response) code looks like a black square pattern on a white background and can be read using a camera-fitted smartphone or tablet.

One QR code hidden inside. Find it!

Here's how it works: 1. Make sure your 3G network is activated.

2. Download a free QR code reader from your mobile applications store.

3. Launch the application. This will activate the camera on your device.

4. Point the camera viewfinder over the code and open the link.

AR NEVER F U FROM YO

SINDA’s now on social media! Are you?

Meet us online at:

http://facebook.com/mysinda

http://twitter.com/mysinda

Look out for exciting updates online!

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CEO’S MESSAGE A Happy New Year to all and best wishes for the year ahead!

The economic reports that are coming out may not be encouraging and economists are predicting slow growth for a couple of years. Let us all get ready. On our part, we at SINDA are certainly discussing how to serve those who may need assistance.

We are gearing for short-term financial assistance and career services.

The best solution is to retain present jobs and for those who are retrenched, to find new ones. That would require some re-training to acquire new skill sets that are still in demand. Above all, we are concerned about the school-going children and their educational journey. We need to take all the necessary steps to ensure that our children continue to go to school and focus on their studies.

There is renewed energy at SINDA. Many would know that we had spent 2011 reviewing all of our programmes and services. A review report titled "SINDA 2020: A New Momentum" has been submitted to our Board and this sets out the roadmap for us to go forth from this year.

the Normal stream. Likelihood is that they will continue to fail Mathematics till their ‘N’ and ‘O’ levels unless some positive steps are taken to address this downward spiral in their educational performance.

A point of great concern is that poor post-secondary qualifications

The key areas of the review report are covered inside this newsletter.

I will reiterate them here very quickly. The review team, based on data and discussions with many people, has put forth the following recommendations:

will lead to lesser than desired career pathways and earnings.

The cycle of family under-performance will repeat itself in the next generation. We need to break that cycle. Thus, we will start with primary school educational performance, especially with the PSLE.

• Encouraging greater participation in pre-school education from nursery level

Many feel that there is no issue, or nothing too serious happening

• Focusing on Mathematics performance at all levels

nothing is done. Nobody wants to be part of the underclass of the

now. However, statistics point to a very serious future scenario if

• Expanding the number of students attending SINDA’s educational programmes

future. The least we can do now is to ensure that the next generation

• Engaging the youths in relevant activities

to a brighter future is through better education. That we all know.

• Building family resilience

So, what is holding us back? That is the golden question.

• Strengthening community partnership Many challenges remain. Under-performance of Indian students at all levels is a cause for concern. Continued under-performance in Mathematics will hinder the students’ future options in secondary schools and beyond. One in four students sitting for the PSLE, fails Mathematics. Approximately 3,500 Indian students are in each cohort. That would mean that slightly over 800 students fail PSLE Mathematics in each cohort.

is more successful than the present one. In Singapore, the best way

We need all the help we can get from the community to identify every student who needs to cross over from ‘Fail’ to ‘Pass’. Parents will know who they are. Teachers know where they study. Help us help them succeed!

This year, 2012, is a year of action. A sense of urgency needs to permeate the Indian community if we are to correct the lethargy that is setting in. Mediocre performance is simply not good enough.

Failure is not to be taken lightly or tolerated. Come, join us in

This is a huge number. Have you imagined what happens to these students? They will probably continue their educational journey in

changing the course of the future. Let us all do what we can to urge everyone to take action now, for a brighter future ahead.

Raja Segar CEO

STUDENTS

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A Community’s Blessing It was a day of hope and happiness on 3 December, with over 550 parents and students gathering at the Umar Pulavar Tamil Language Centre for the Indian Community Bursary Awards (ICBA) and SINDA's Backto-School Festival (BTSF) 2011. It was also a celebration of the strong partnership between the Tamils Representative Council (TRC), Singapore Indian Education Trust (SIET) and SINDA since 2002.

Once again, Singapore’s Indian community has stepped up to ensure that no child’s education will be compromised due to a lack of funds, by giving generously to Project Give. The annual donation drive funded 800 Back-to-School kits worth more than $100 each, as well as SINDA bursaries for 2012. Collectively, SINDA, SIET and TRC will disburse 2,000 bursaries worth $1.33 million for 2012.

This year’s ICBA ceremony saw 68 students from primary school to junior college going on stage to accept their bursaries. As of 2011, SINDA partners with SIET in offering bursaries to tertiary level students as well.

Ruthra Thiyagarajan, a SINDA-SIET bursary recipient now studying at National Junior College, gave a heart-felt speech motivating the students to aspire to excellence and never give up. “Today, I understand the true meaning of

Project Give,” she told the crowd. “The whole Indian community has come together to make complete access to education a reality for all of us aspiring to make the most of our lives.”

Guest-of-Honour Mdm Halimah Yacob, Minister of State, Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports lauded the partner agencies for joining forces to reach out to needy students. Mdm Halimah also encouraged parents to support their children’s bids for success, reminding all that “what you sow today will result in plentiful fruits tomorrow”.

The up-beat atmosphere was amplified with energetic dance performances by participants of SINDA's programmes and inspirational videos, while workshops on parenting, nutrition and art also engaged the families.

Besides lunch, participants also enjoyed a free flow of candy floss and popcorn, exciting carnival games and free books from the National Library Board, which made the day truly memorable.

DESERVING 12 On 25 August 2011, SINDA hosted the third Ng Lao Chik–SINDA Secondary Study (NLC-SSS) Awards ceremony. This year, 12 students were conferred the award, which supports students so as to ease their families’ financial constraints. The aim of this award is to also allow students to realise their dreams in their pursuit of excellence in areas such as academics, sports and the arts.

The award was started by Mr Ng Siak Heng in memory of his late father in 2009. It is meant specially for deserving Indian students studying in mainstream secondary schools in Singapore. Thus far, 17 students have benefitted from this award in the past two years.

Second-time recipient, Ashwin s/o Singaram, from Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), feels that the study award will prove helpful in his studies: “The money goes a long way in supporting my daily expenses and study needs. My academic performance and my co-curricular activities will definitely benefit,” said Ashwin.

STEP TUITION 2012

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CRITERIA Indian Singaporeans and Permanent Residents duration OF CLASSES 18 Jan 2012 till 25 Oct 2012 • Small Class Size • Qualified and Experienced Tutors

STUDENTS

• Holiday Programmes – (Enrichment/Academic/Motivational) • Additional Subjects – (subject to minimum number at Centre) • Flexible Choice of Subjects • SINDA Tests Conducted Regularly • Curriculum Materials • E-learning • Refreshments • T shirts

STEP FEES PRIMARY Level

Subjects

Primary 1 & 2

English / Maths*

Primary 3-6 (Including P5 & P6 Foundation)

English / Maths* / Science

Fees (Cash / GIRO) (Fees based on relief package for Jan to Jun 2012 only)

Curriculum Fees (One-time payment)

$5 per subject per month

$5 per subject

$10 per subject per month

$5 per subject

SECONDARY Secondary 1 - 2 (EXP & NA)

Maths* / General Science

Secondary 3 - 5 (EXP & NA)

Maths* / Combined Science (Phy/Chem)

Secondary 1 - 4 (NT)

English / Maths*

* SINDA offers Maths (2hrs / week) and Double Maths (4hrs / week)

STEP CENTRES North

Central

Bowen Secondary School

2 Lorong Napiri S (547529)

Henderson Secondary School

100 Henderson Rd S (159544)

First Toa Payoh Primary School

7 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh S (319252)

Marsiling Primary School

31 Woodlands Centre Rd S (738927)

Global Indian International School, Balestier Campus

51 Jalan Rajah, Balestier Road S (329154)

Mayflower Secondary School

2 Ang Mo Kio St.21 S (569384)

North View Secondary School

530 Yishun Ring Rd S (768680)

Woodlands Ring Secondary School

10 Woodlands Ring Road S (738239)

Seng Kang Secondary School

10 Compassvale Lane S (545090)

Yishun Primary School

500 Yishun Ring Rd S (768679)

East East View Secondary School

3 Tampines St 42 S (529177)

Pasir Ris Primary School

5, Pasir Ris Street 21 S (518968)

Ping Yi Secondary School

61 Chai Chee Street S (468980)

West Chua Chu Kang Secondary School

3 Teck Whye Crescent S (688845)

Clementi Primary School

8 Clementi Ave 3 S (129903)

Fajar Secondary School

31 Gangsa Road S (678972)

Jurong West Secondary School

61 Jurong West St 65 S (648348)

Pioneer Secondary School

21 Jurong West St 81 S (649075)

Shuqun Primary School

8 Jurong West St 51 S (649332)

Shuqun Secondary School

450, Jurong East St 21 S (609604)

Primary, Secondary 1 & 2 only

Mon, Tue & Thurs

Primary only

Mon, Wed & Thurs

Mon, Tue & Fri

Tues, Thurs & Fri

For more details, call 1800- 295- 4554 or visit www.sinda.org.sg/students/step Documents Required: • Pupil's NRIC / Birth Certificate / Student Pass • Parent / Guardian's bank details for GIRO deductions • 2011 Final-Year Examination Results Slip

project teach: Calling All Teachers!

If you are keen to see the academic standing of Indian students in your school improve, Project Teach is what you are looking for. SINDA’s Project Teach is a school-based tutorial programme that targets Primary 1-6 students (including Foundation students). The programme is conducted for students identified by the school and held before or after curriculum time on the school premises. The programme can be customized according to the school’s needs. Project Teach offers: • English, Maths and/or Science from January to October • Maths only from January to October OR • a 12-week intensive Maths exam preparatory programme

Other features of Project Teach include: • Small class sizes (4-8 students) • Qualified and experienced tutors • Curriculum materials • Regular tests and assessments • Holiday classes/enrichment activities/ outings In 2011, Project Teach was conducted across 44 primary schools reaching out to 925 students. We have forged close partnerships with these schools over the past few years.

If you think Project Teach can help your school, please feel free to contact Ms Nithya @ 6393 7230 or Ms Vijaya @ 6393 7283.

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Confidence

through Drama

A drama workshop conducted by SINDA and ACT 3 Drama Academy on 10 September 2011 gave 21 Primary 4 students enhanced confidence in expressing themselves clearly.

Themed “Mirror Me, Mirror You”, the workshop imparted drama skills in a fun way. Children warmed up to the idea of social interaction by exploring verbal and non-verbal communication methods. Putting aside their inhibitions and mingling freely with their peers, the kids also learnt to speak in English with clarity and confidence. Undoubtedly, these skills will provide the kids with an edge over their peers.

fe i L p o t Lea In

157 Primary 4 and 5 students jumped enthusiastically into SINDA’s Project Leap on 12 November 2011. The experiential workshop brought them to various stations around Republic Polytechnic in an exciting programme encompassing self-understanding, time management and public speaking, among others.

The youngsters ended the morning motivated to do more for themselves and to set personal goals, armed with the skills to maximise their potential. This is one batch of students that will surely face life with confidence!

figuring out Maths

Pupils learnt the secrets to acing their PSLE Mathematics papers at SINDA’s Winning Strategies seminar held in September at Cheng San Community Club. They learnt how to master challenging Mathematical topics such as Speed, Circles, Fractions and Percentage from their trainer, Mr Vijayan Nambiar, Director of Training Innovations Consultancy.

Nasreen Malik, a participant, shared that Mr Vijayan’s teaching methods were result-oriented: “He kept testing our knowledge of concepts by changing the numbers here and there in problem sums. It was very helpful because it made me more prepared for my PSLE paper.”

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Holiday Enrichment Programmes

History came alive for 28 primary school students, through an unusual medium – stamps! A fun sleep-over at the Singapore Philatelic Museum over 24-25 November 2011 allowed these children to gain insights into traditional methods of communication, as well as the history and origin of stamps.

For many of the students, this was their first overnight camp, and it proved an exciting and enjoyable experience. “I really liked the Tin Tin exhibition,” nine-year-old Shankari d/o Muniandy enthused. Added Md Daniel Hakeem Bin Maznizam, 10, “The programme built my knowledge of stamps, and the facilitators were really fun!” Entertained by treasure hunts with prizes, a magic show, a shadow show and a movie, the kids also went home with goodie bags full of treats from the museum.

United We Play Play ball! A soccer workshop was held on 10 December 2011 as one of the many enrichment activities SINDA arranged for the year-end holidays. Following this on 15 December 2011 was an overnight camp at the Singapore Zoo – a thrilling chance to ‘Sleep with the Beasts. A dance workshop, ‘Take the Lead’, was also held on 19 December 2011.

These activities were all designed to engage the primary and secondary school students involved in SINDA, to aid their personal development and ultimately motivate them to excel in school.

Vroom!

Just the mention of Formula 1 is enough to set most hearts racing, but to actually build and race a car in an F1sanctioned workshop provides an adrenaline rush that won’t easily be forgotten.

That was the feeling 86 students from Shuqun, Marsiling and Choa Chu Kang STEP Centres got to enjoy over four half-day workshops in November. This programme comes directly from Formula 1 and is endorsed by Mr. Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of Formula One Management and Formula One Administration.

The exciting F1 Experience Workshop provided the students with a new appreciation for Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology as they were guided to build their own race cars. The final day delivered an exhilarating climax – Race Day! With numerous prizes for speed and design up for grabs, the tension was palpable.

It was female student Pragatheeswari d/o Jagatheeswaran of Tampines North Primary School who claimed the Fastest Timing for the Primary Category, while Mithun Padhmanathan of St Patrick’s School won in the Secondary Category. The winners will also receive an exclusive opportunity to participate in the annual F1 Technology Challenge in Singapore.

STUDENTS

Night at the Museum

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SINDA 2020: A New Momentum Unveiled

A press conference on 23 November 2011 revealed the results of the much-anticipated SINDA 2020 review report, entitled ‘SINDA 2020: A New Momentum’.

Several challenges were identified by the Review Committee, Data Analysis Team, Education Study Team and Family Study Team, all comprising professionals from various fields. The issues include a persistent gap in Mathematics results vis-à-vis the national average; SINDA’s tuition programmes having an inadequate reach to make a significant impact; low aspirations amongst youths; and a lack of family support. Confronting these form the A copy of the Review Report basis for the strategic thrusts devised to bring can be found on the SINDA website. the Indian community forward.

Several main strategies have been recommended, further broken down into key action plans to bring about the community’s success. Among them, things to look forward to are further subsidies for pre-school education and increased use of technology to teach Mathematics. There will be more youth-centric activities by youths to engage their peers, as well as renewed engagement with parents. SINDA will be re-organised along the lines of these targets, with a stronger focus on community engagement.

SINDA’s vision, at the end of the day, is the community’s vision – our vision of building a well-educated, resilient and confident community of Indians that stands together with other communities in contributing to the progress of multi-racial Singapore – DPM Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Chairman of SINDA’s Board of Trustees

SINDA Makes a Quantum Leap!

“Time is of the essence,” proclaims the Strategic Review, SINDA 2020: A New Momentum.

Outlined in the next few pages are five key initiatives to be rolled out. Here is what you can look forward to: 1

Earlier academic preparation. Everything from parental guidance to information on financial help will be rolled out to get more of the little ones into preschool.

2

Enhanced focus on Mathematics. An intensive approach will be used to equip both parents and students with the right skills and tools.

3

Increased community reach. Exciting interactive programmes and collaborations are in store to increase our tuition enrolment.

4

Youths engaged as a catalyst for change. In supporting youth aspirations and development, our youths will be positioned as part of the solution to challenges.

5

Increased family support and motivation. A resilient family is the bedrock of a strong, confident and vibrant community.

6

Increased community collaboration. With an all-hands-on-deck approach, SINDA will form or strengthen relevant partnerships to effectively reach out to the community.

SINDA 2020

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AB C Initiative 1: Getting more kids into preschool The first of the strategies is to put Indian children on a stronger footing to succeed in the future, through early learning and confidence building. To see more of our young ones enrol into kindergartens, there will be more information provided for parents, through faceto-face sessions as well as the mass media. Find out which subsidies and grants can help put children through preschool, and learn how to turn your home into a conducive environment through new SINDA programmes. Families will have every opportunity to provide their kids that early head start towards success!

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38 15+

Initiative 2: Enhancing the focus on Mathematics Look forward to enhanced STEP and Project Teach programmes, with more interactive learning customised for different competency levels. New and innovative formats such as “Math Weekends” and “Math Workshops” will keep things fun, too!

Too far from home? A new scheme will allow students to use Maths vouchers at MOE-accredited private tuition centres. Parents will also be engaged and equipped to help their children more effectively.

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Initiative 3: Expanding SINDA’s tuition reach New interactive programmes and exciting collaborations are all in the pipeline for SINDA’s tuition outreach. Look forward to more mentorship of primary pupils by schools, such as Raffles Institution’s Eagle’s Eye Talent Development Programme with SINDA. In addition, new tuition opportunities will open up through Collaborative Tuition Programme (CTP) centres run by SINDA, the Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC) and Yayasan Mendaki. Further good news is in store for up to 1,000 primary and secondary school students, who will be able to afford help from selected private tuition agencies with a planned fee subsidy.

SINDA’s own tuition programmes, STEP and Project Teach, will enjoy enhanced quality and more attractive marketing to engage a targeted total of 7,000 students.

With the Project Teach model working well in 44 primary schools currently, an increased enrolment is expected when the programme is replicated in more primary and secondary schools.

Initiative 4: Strengthening youth development What better champion for Indian youths than our own SINDA Youth Club? Resources will be set aside to ensure sufficient support for the myriad of exciting activities lined up, like camps and sports, to engage and affirm our youths. We’ll definitely be seeing a stronger presence on social media – Facebook, Twitter, SMS blasts, websites and blogs – as we strengthen rapport with our IT-savvy generation.

The aim is to increase the reach to students as well as parents by three-fold, and build resilient families and supportive peer networks.

Envision groups of friends engaged in meaningful activities together, such as volunteering in SINDA projects! Plans include partnering with other youth-centric organisations and forging a youth network with groups from Junior Colleges, Polytechnics and Institutes of Technical Education.

Initiative 5: Building strong families Look out for courses not just on parenting skills, but also for marriage preparation, financial management and skills upgrading for better careers. Stories of successful students from challenging family backgrounds and other inspirational role models will encourage you all the more.

SINDA will work with the relevant government agencies to ensure that information is more accessible to families needing assistance, and enhance on-going outreach efforts at places of worship and community centres.

Initiative 6: Strengthening Community Partnerships Forming new partnerships and strengthening existing ones will be SINDA’s approach to maximize its reach. SINDA will embark on a sustainable collaborative framework that will empower partner organisations and associations to actively carry its messages to the heart of the community. This will enable SINDA to more effectively engage parents, children, youths and potential partners and meet their specific needs.

SINDA 2020

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10

A Toast to the Future

“A celebration of our unity in action and a demonstration of our preparedness to be involved” is what Ms Indranee Rajah declared SINDA’s 20th Anniversary Dinner to be.

The gala fund-raising dinner, held on 23 November 2011 at the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, had excelling artistes and SINDA staff performing items, as well as video segments highlighting SINDA’s 20-year history. Gracing the event was President of Singapore, Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam, together with other dignitaries such as former President of Singapore, Mr S R Nathan and Prof S Jayakumar, former Chairman of SINDA. In his speech, Guest-of-Honour President Tony Tan commended SINDA’s “contributions and efforts toward enhancing the development of the Indian community in Singapore.”

Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Chairman of SINDA’s Board of Trustees announced that “we have reduced the gaps in educational achievement between Indians and the national average.”

DPM Shanmugaratnam called on the community to build on goodwill and openness of mind in the coming years, especially in encouraging newer citizens to integrate fully. He said, “We need the full strengths of the community, with all its talents and civic energy, to make further progress.”

The evening’s programme culminated in the launch of a commemorative book chronicling SINDA’s rich history. Titled A Place in the Community, it is a testament to the integral role that SINDA plays in the community.

A specially-commissioned video, Kalvi Karpaai, was unveiled at SINDA's 20th Anniversary Dinner.

A stellar cast of Indian artistes collaborated on this first-ever video, highlighting the importance of education. Watch it now! watch the video?

1 Turn on 3G 2 Download a free QR code reader to your smartphone 3 Scan the QR Code

SINDA DINNER

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Are You Ready YOUTH

to Be the Change?

Youths seized the opportunity to discuss various issues affecting Singaporeans, at a focus group discussion on 14 October 2011 at SINDA. The discussion, organised by SINDA in partnership with MCYS and part of the youth-driven initiative called “Be the Change!” encouraged Indian youths to interact and share innovative ideas on nation-building. Chaired by Mr Vikram Nair, Member of Parliament for Sembawang GRC and Mr Aaron Maniam, Chairman of the SINDA Youth Club and member of the National Youth Council, the discourse also covered issues affecting the identities of Indian youths in Singapore.

One of the participants, Haresh Kumar, won an iPad 2 for the ideas he proposed in the ‘Be the Change” contest. Haresh’s ideas focused on expanding the social entrepreneurship scene in Singapore, which sees more profit-generating businesses set up compared to non-profit ventures.

“In the West, many businesses are moving towards social entrepreneurship,” Haresh explained. “I believe there is much potential in this area and government agencies such as International Enterprise (IE) Singapore and Spring Singapore could spearhead initiatives. These would provide more prospects for youths and individuals.”

Pinnacle of Inspiration Youths attending SINDA’s latest In-Conversation Series on 7 October 2011 were treated to a dialogue session with 27-year-old doctor and avid mountaineer Dr Kumaran Rasappan.

The young people were enthralled to hear Dr Kumaran, who practices medicine at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), speak about his medical career. The physician also touched on youth matters such as goal setting and self-motivation, disciplines that proved useful in his mountain climbing expeditions to Mount Kilimanjaro and other mountains in Nepal, China and India.

It was a learning journey for the 35 youths present as they

learnt about the sacrifices Dr Kumaran made and the difficulties he overcame to achieve his ambitions. Photos and video snippets shown during the session gave greater depth to the challenges Dr Kumaran faced.

This series organised by SINDA exposes youths to inspirational role-models who have achieved all-rounded excellence in both academics and career, and who give back to society in their own ways.

Participant Bavani, who was fascinated by Dr Kumaran’s unique combination of career and hobby, said the session was an eye-opener.

“It was certainly an enlightening and inspiring session. You don’t often meet doctors who put their careers on hold to pursue their hobbies, but to hear that from Dr Kumaran was simply moving. It shows that anyone can have a profession and pursue their passion for sports or hobbies, if they have the will,” said Bavani.

The session concluded with Dr Kumaran announcing his next challenge of conquering Mount Everest in 2012. He also aims to raise funds for Tan Tock Seng Hospital’s Community Charity Fund through his mountain climbing expeditions.

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FAMILY

Dr Balaji Sadasivan Remembered with Scholarship Award

To commemorate the first anniversary of Dr Balaji Sadasivan’s demise, who served as SINDA’s fourth president, a scholarship bearing his name has been launched. At the announcement on 27 September 2011, Guest-of-Honour Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong paid tribute to Dr Balaji’s “passion for social service”. Reflecting this, the scholarship fund worth $500,000 will be awarded to deserving Indian undergraduates and post-graduate students in Social Work. Recipients will be bonded to SINDA, so that their expertise in social work can help fulfil SINDA’s mission to uplift the Indian community.

Mr Viswa Sadasivan, Vice-President of SINDA, also voiced that the scholarship “may evolve into something larger, and perhaps look into special needs education, which was another area close to Dr Balaji’s heart”.

A booklet entitled The Balaji We Knew, written by family, friends and colleagues, was also launched at the event as an enduring testimony to Dr Balaji’s life and work.

Fishing Fun Raise a Reader Reading to your children is one of the best ways to develop their character and put them on the road to academic success.

With this in mind, some 80 parents signed up for SINDA’s “Raise a Reader” parents workshop, conducted by the National Library Board last month. There, they discovered how to cultivate and foster the love of reading in their kids.

Ms Deborah Ang, an Associate Librarian at Bedok Public Library, says most parents understand the importance of reading to their kids and are making the effort to do so regularly. This develops their child’s reading skills and creativity.

Over two sessions, parents picked up essential storytelling techniques that will prove helpful in communicating their thoughts and emotions to their kids through reading.

28 SINDA students who visited the Hausmann Marketing Aquarium on 19 November 2011 not only got to feed the koi and tortoises there, but also learnt how to fish. While the kids were taught to use fishing rods, they had an equally memorable time chasing “longkang fish” with nets, and were happy to bring home their prized catches.

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Riders Aid Rides Again The former Umar Pulavar Tamil Language Centre at Victoria Street was the locale for an unusual parade on 13 November 2011. Some 800 motorbikes, from scooters and scramblers to Honda Goldwings and Harley-Davidsons revved up for their annual Project Give charity ride. Led by Mr Suriya Kumar and

Mr Ramle Ismail, this is the third year that the bikers have held the Project Give Deepavali Charity Ride, to support the education needs of Indian students from low-income families.

The riders were as varied as their two-wheelers and came from different backgrounds. Mr S Devendran, Deputy Director at SINDA, commented, “when people from all walks of life come together, provide resources and help in whatever way they can, we are deeply encouraged.

“Such initiatives from Riders Aid and many other organisations are testament to the fact that education is a crucial component and that we should all work together with the community to make it a reality for our children.”

IBR Dialogue series:

Dialogue with Minister k Shanmugam Continuing the Indian Businessleaders’ Roundtable (IBR) Dialogue Series was the second dialogue held on 11 October 2011 at the M Hotel Singapore.

The closed-door event saw 50 IBR members and SINDA staff meet with Guestof-Honour Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Law. The IBR engages successful Indian business people and allows for the sharing of their expertise.

In his opening address, Mr Girija Pande, Chairman of the IBR noted that the membership of IBR has now doubled, from 42 initially, to 84 members. This, he said, was an indication that the Indian diaspora “has a social conscience about issues affecting the Indian community in Singapore”.

Mr Shanmugam also referred to IBR’s involvement, saying “it’s not just about money, it is also about time.” In particular, he urged members to take the time to talk to and motivate the students SINDA helps.

“Many of them have great potential but they need mentoring,” he said.

The session ended with a question&-answer and panel discussion with Mr Shanmugam and Mr Pande. This focused mainly on economic issues in Singapore and the region, with Mr Shanmugam stressing that the government aims to make sure Singaporeans are able to “live a decent and meaningful life”.

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September 3 2011 marked Deutsche Post DHL’s “Global Volunteer Day”.

A total of 120 volunteers championed SINDA’s mission to “enlighten the community, mainly in the area of education” by befriending 130 underprivileged children through fun and educational activities at the Singapore Science Centre.

Under the guidance of their mentors, the children took on the “Gallery Hunt” adventure. The kids enjoyed exploring and participating in chemistry-related activities during the hunt. They later learned about the close bond between humans and animals in an IMAX movie entitled ‘Born to be Wild’ at the Omni-Theatre.

CEO of Deutsche Post DHL, Mr Frank Appel, said that the “Global Volunteer Day” enabled employees of the company to respond to the needs of the community.

He said, "nearly half a million people work

for Deutsche Post DHL in more than 220 countries and territories. There is enormous potential for their skills and energy to positively impact our society. Volunteerism is an important component in modern societies, and as a global company we want to make a difference."

Celebrate!

Sharing Festive Cheer Christmas came early for 40 needy families at SINDA. Kicking off the Christmas season on 26 November 2011, Mr Viswa Sadasivan, Vice-President of the SINDA Executive Committee distributed gift packs to Christian beneficiaries, as part of SINDA’s annual festive-giving campaign.

Sharing the festive cheer were volunteer groups and SINDA’s partners, all of whom came together for an appreciation lunch. Certificates of appreciation were also presented in recognition of their tireless contributions.

With over 1200 individuals from all races, volunteerism in SINDA focuses on helping our fellow man. “Each and every one of us has a role in society”, said Mr Sham Alexandra, a SINDA volunteer. “It cuts across races and religions, and all of us are really here to assist; it’s the least we can do.”

Similar gift pack distributions were held to celebrate Hari Raya and Deepavali in the previous few months, spreading festive cheer to one and all!

VOLUNTEER

DHL Champions SINDA’s cause

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Congratulations to our EXCO's MR K.V. RAO for being the IIFT alumnus of the year! citation excerpt: Mr. K.V. Rao is from the 1984 batch of Post Graduate Diploma in International Trade from THE Indian institute of foreign trade (IIFT).

After completing his graduation in 1980 from Nagarjuna University, Mr. Rao started his career as a Management Trainee with DCM Group in India. He also had an outstanding academic record. He was a gold medallist at Graduate College and was a recipient of the Sir Rangaswamy Award at IIFT. Following a successful career in Consumer Marketing and International Business, Mr. Rao got involved in international trading and counter trading from 1996 to 1999, in Singapore.

As CEO and Director of Duncans Group in Singapore, Mr. Rao established the International Business Division for the Group overseas and an IT arm in Singapore during his tenure from 1999 to 2001.

In 2001, Mr. Rao joined the Singapore Civil Service as Director of the Trade Development Board of Singapore and was responsible for several initiatives to develop the local industry.

Presently, Mr. Rao is the Managing Director for Trust Energy Resource Pte Ltd and Resident Director of Tata Chemical and Tata Power Limited in Singapore and has been with the Tata Group since 2006.

Mr. Rao was appointed as a member of the Executive Committee as well as the Audit Committee of SINDA. He is also the

Chairman of the sub-committee on Corporate Social Responsibility for the Tata Group of Companies in Singapore.

The Institute is proud of you, Mr. Rao. Munish Bhargava Faculty Alumni Coordinator

About SINDA 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

Executive Committee

Patron Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

President Ms Indranee Rajah

Chairman, Board of Trustees Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam

Vice Presidents Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai, PBM

Life Trustees Professor 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 Advisors Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Mr S Iswaran Mr Hri Kumar Nair

Secretary Mr Sarjit Singh, PBM 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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We would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous contributions towards SINDA's cause: individual donations

Abiraame Jewellers

Mini Environment Services Pte Ltd

Mr Chelva Retnam Rajah

Allen & Gledhill LLP

Optimum Solutions (S) Pte Ltd

Mr Christopher Anand s/o Daniel

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited

People's Association Indian Activity Executive Committees Council

Mr Chua Nguen Chuar

BinjaiTree

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Mr Kaikhushru Shiavax Nargolwala

Chew How Teck Foundation

Sana Hindu Aftercare (Counselling) Svc

Mr Lakshmanan s/o Seenivasakan

Cleen First Services Pte Ltd

Singapore Indian Education Trust

Mr Manokaran Chakrapani

Credit Suisse AG, Singapore Branch

Singapore Thamizhar Eyakkam

Mr N Subramaniam

DBS Bank Limited

Sri Arasakesari Sivan Temple

Mr Nagarajan Senthil Kumar

Emerio Globesoft Pte Ltd

Sri Arulmigu Murugan Temple

Mr Saha Ranjit Chandra

GOPIO (Singapore)

Sri Krishnan Temple

Mr Subramaniam Sankar

Hindu Centre

Sri Manmatha Karuneshvarar Temple

Mr Sundaram Arun Kumar

Hindu Endowments Board

Standard Chartered Bank

Mr Sunny G Verghese

Indian Restaurant Association of Singapore

State Bank Of India

Ms Sunu Sivadasan

Intra Business Pte Ltd

Straits Law Practice LLC

Mr Sutharshan Kandiah

Jay Gee Enterprises (Pte) Ltd

Tamil Language & Cultural Society

Mr Thirumalai Chandran

Josco Travel & Trading Pte Ltd

Tamil Murasu Ltd

Mr Venkatesh Narayanaswamy

KNP Trading Pte Ltd

Tamil Representative Council

Mr Yin Kok Kong

Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association

Tolaram Corporation Pte Ltd

Manbeni Corporate Consultancy Pte Ltd

UBS AG Singapore Branch

Mastercard Asia / Pacific Pte Ltd

Yahya Abdulhussain Lukmanji Saif Charity Trust

MGI N Rajan Associates

YOUR VOICE

Corporate donations

Mr Harry Susilo

Total Oil Asia-Pacific Pte Ltd

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