SINDA Connections - Oct 2011

MICA (P) 123 ⁄ 08 ⁄ 2011

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Tell us about your favourite STEp moments to win an ipad 2!(p03) OCTOBER 2011

project Give 2011(p14) Getting the Community Involved (p10) Chief of Army mG Ravinder Singh Speaks...(p12) SINDA youth leaders Seminar (SylS) 2011 (p06)

Contents SINDA

CEO’s Message

( P0 1)

STUDENTS

SINDA Excellence Awards (SEA) Ceremony 2011

STUDENTS

STEP E-Learning Boost

STUDENTS

STUDENTS

editORiaL teaM ( P 02)

( P 03)

Mr T Raja Segar, CEO, SINDA Green House Design + Communications Pte Ltd

Editors:

SINDA Celebrates the Joint Tuition Awards Ceremony 2011 (P04) Mad about Maths

Advisor: Writers & Designer:

Corporate Communications Team, SINDA

printer:

Stamford Press Pte Ltd

tO SUBScRiBe SINDA connections:

( P 05)

– Send your home or office address to yOUTH

SINDA Youth Leaders Seminar (SYLS) 2011

( P 06)

connections@sinda.org.sg (inform us if there’s a change in address)

fAmIly

fAmIly

COmmUNITy

INTERVIEW

pROJECT GIVE

pARTNERS

Sharing the Joy this Festive Season Giving Our Children A Head Start

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Getting the Community Involved

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Chief of Army MG Ravinder Singh Speaks...

Project Give 2011

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

tO cOntRiBUte Towards the SINDA Cpf fund: (to start contributing or increase contributions)

One-time Donations: ( P 12)

– Tel: 1800 295 4554 – www.sinda.org.sg

( P 14)

Room(s) for Growth

( P 17)

Watch videos on your Smartphone! Look out for these Quick Response (QR) Codes in this issue! one QR CoDe HIDDen InSIDe. FInD IT!

aR neVeR F u FRoM yo

e-Newsletter:

( P 08)

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!

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.

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

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

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

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CEO’S MESSAGE THE YEAR IS FAST COMING TO A CLOSE. The tail-end festivities started from August with Eid (Hari Raya Puasa). Next is Deepavali on 26 October and then Christmas in December. It is a period to savour both the joy of celebrations and good food. But festivities and celebrations aside, it is a crucial period for students with the final year examinations looming in the background.

As I write this message, the PSLE is ongoing – that somewhat “scary” examination that grips the nation where both children and parents go through significant anxiety. PSLE has become a rite of passage for all children in Singapore schools. Contrary to popular belief, some enjoy a sense of achievement of going through it, somewhat like completing the National Service for the boys.

It also gives some parents a sense of where their child stands nationally in terms of performance and whether they, as parents, have done the right things in the first 12 years of the child’s life. While many are rightly concerned about the performance of their children at PSLE, some are not as involved in this critical juncture. This brings us to the topic that I want to discuss in this message.

The job of being a parent is definitely not getting any easier. What are the roles and responsibilities of parents as far as their children’s education is concerned? How do parents keep up with what is expected of them by the schools and the society at large? There have been a number of robust discussions on these questions at various forums that SINDA organised this year.

Schools are trying their best to ensure that our children acquire the right knowledge and skills. But, more than that, they need to be nurtured into becoming confident and resilient adults – a task which rests not just with the teachers and the school but most importantly with the parents.

Parents need to get involved in the daily activities of their children from asking what happened at school and what the teachers said and what was learnt in class. They need to ensure homework is done, spelling lists learnt, chapters for upcoming tests revised as well as packing the bag for the next day. It is tiring just thinking about it.

Parents have become co-teachers while the home is the “school after school”. Most parents try to play a role in the education of the child, but the speed of change in what is being taught and how it is being taught leaves many parents feeling inadequate – even for those parents who did well in their school days.

Where the parents find it difficult to manage, they seek the assistance of other supplementary tuition programmes. But, not all parents are able to afford or realise the need for this.

This is where many of the supplementary education schemes come into play. SINDA’s STEP tuition too fills that gap. There are students who leave school each day without fully understanding what has been taught. If not addressed immediately, this lack of clarity will accumulate over time to impact the child’s academic results adversely.

While children should be taught to take responsibility for their own academic performance, parents certainly need to be alert enough to observe the downward slide of their child’s performance so that timely and appropriate action can be taken to help the child.

There are several “types” of Indian parents. There are those who are driven enough to ensure that all the educational needs of their children are taken care of. Then there are others who act only when there is a need. And yes, there are those parents who are clueless about what is happening in their children’s lives.

That there may be significant numbers in the last category worries us. SINDA and other organisations need to work together to ensure that parents are enlightened on the significant roles they play in the education of their children. For example, parents should attend the Parent-Teacher meetings without fail to get a qualitative assessment on their child’s performance and conduct at school.

These steps in themselves will make their children focus better and want to do their best. When parents take a keen interest in their children, they will feel like an integral and important part of the family unit.

Parents, this connection is important and will go a long way towards developing your child to his/her full potential! Let us not disappoint our kids!

Raja Segar CEO

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SInDa excellence awards (Sea) Ceremony 2011 DARING TO ASPIRE

FROM SHY 12-YEAR-OLD STUDENTS TO confident young adults, they came, heads held high. As diverse as the group that gathered seemed, they all had one thing in common – having achieved excellence.

On 3 September SINDA once again celebrated the achievements of its outstanding youngsters, at the 20th SINDA Excellence Awards (SEA) Ceremony. The excitement was palpable at the Nanyang Polytechnic Auditorium, which was filled with the award-winners and their parents, teachers and principals. Heads of tertiary institutions as well as social, community and business leaders were also present.

Since 1992, the SEA Ceremony has been held to recognise outstanding students at all levels of education, from PSLE to ‘O’ and ‘A’ Levels and the NUS High School of Maths and Science Diploma, to polytechnics, Institutes of Technical Education (ITEs) and universities, including the Integrated Programme (IP) and International Baccalaureate (IB).

In line with the changing education landscape, non-academic award categories were introduced for the first time in 2008.

These included the Singapore School Sports Council (SSSC) National Colours Awards, Singapore Sports School, LASALLE College of the Arts and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. This year, two new categories were added for Returning Graduates (Degree Courses) and SSSC (Special Colours Awards).

Guest-of-Honour Mr Heng Swee Keat, Minister for Education, thanked SINDA in his speech for the initiative.

He observed that, “over the years, our education system has evolved to provide for a more holistic education as well

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Aim high, and keep challenging yourself. as to create multiple pathways for success for students with different inclinations and abilities.”

Minister Heng noted with pleasure that every year more students are recognised for their excellence, from only 46 in 1992 when SEA first started to 458 this year.

Among the achievers he highlighted was Secondary 4 student Dhukhilan Jeevamani, vice-captain of the National football squad of the 2010 Youth Olympic Games. He also captained the National Under-16 Football team to a silver at the Lion City Cup 2011.

All award winners received certificates and Kinokuniya book vouchers. Minister Heng told them, “Aim high, and keep challenging yourself.” Indeed, some were

attending the ceremony not for the first time, like R R Pravin, who despite having difficulties in a single-parent home, has achieved SEAs for IP and IB. Minister Heng reminded the students to “have a deep sense of gratitude towards the people who have made a difference in your lives – your parents, teachers, coaches, friends and mentors, whose support and encouragement enabled you to get this far.”

He also exhorted the youngsters to serve as role models or mentors to other students, to come forward to volunteer at SINDA and contribute back to the community in creative ways.

“Dare to aspire!” he urged.

Dare to aspire!

Fancy STEP lessons in the comfort of your own home? Students at all STEP centres are now able to access online learning from SINDA’s innovative new e-learning portal, wherever they are. The interactive lessons will keep students engaged while providing a fun aspect to learning, beyond the classroom.

Primary 6 STEP student Kaanchana, who tried it, says: “The website was so fun, colourful and interesting!

STEP e-learning was officially launched on 27 April at the Woodlands Ring STEP Centre and has been successfully rolled out to all 21 STEP Centres since.

Pre-registration for the next year’s STEP classes commenced in September. Don’t miss out! Every year, more than 3,000 students benefit from our classes. SINDA always looks into generating new ways of keeping the quality of STEP consistently high.

STEP Scores with Futsal!

In an exciting change of pace, 73 STEP students and their tutors stepped out of the classroom on the morning of 16 July and onto the Kickers Bay Futsal Pitch @ Indian Association.

Forming five Lower Secondary and eight Upper Secondary teams, the exuberant participants of the SINDA STEP Futsal Challenge gave their all in a series of thrilling matches. Held for the second year running, this competition brings STEP students together in an environment where the teens can forge stronger ties, both among themselves as well as with their tutors, and learn team values in the process.

The success of the event has led to calls for similar events for Primary and even female students!

In the Lower Secondary category of the Challenge, Mayflower emerged champion, with Bowen ‘A’ and Henderson coming in 1st and 2nd Runners Up respectively. The Upper Secondary category was won by the Farrer Park ‘B’ team, with 1st Runner Up Bowen ‘A’ and 2nd Runner Up Farrer Park ‘B’.

Share your STEP moment & win an iPAD 2 If you’ve ever been a part of our STEP programme, we want YOU! Tell us about your favourite STEP memories – your funniest incidents, your favourite tutors, your most meaningful moments…

The best entry stands to win an ipad 2!* Submit your story at: www.facebook.com/mysinda your submission has to be in the form of a story, picture or video.

Entries will be made available for viewing on www.facebook.com/mysinda.

For more details, please contact Sree Ganesh at sreeganesh@ sinda.org.sg or 6393 7289. * Terms and Conditions apply

Walking in(to) STEp Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance & Manpower and SINDA Chairman, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited the Mayflower STEP Centre on 24 August to get a first-hand look at SINDA’s flagship STEP programme.

Regular enhancements to the programme keep it fresh and engaging for the students. Among these, Mr Tharman observed the non-academic programme “I am Motivated” for lower and upper secondary STEP students, as well as the hands-on activities and games used in the Primary 1s and 2s’ Creative Maths classes. STEP’s latest exciting development, eLearning, was also demonstrated for the DPM.

STUDENTS

SteP e-Learning Boost

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SInDa CeleBRaTeS THe JoInT TuITIon aWaRDS CeReMony 2011 Some 84 of our own STEP students were feted at the annual Self-Help Groups Joint Tuition Awards Ceremony, held on 30 July at the Nanyang Polytechnic Auditorium. Our award winners were among 405 students across all races who made significant improvements at the landmark examinations for 2010. They did so with the help of the tuition programmes conducted by the four Self-Help Groups (SHG), namely SINDA, the Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC), the Eurasian Association (EA) and Yayasan Mendaki.

This annual ceremony is a collaborative effort by the SHGs to recognise the academic achievements of our students.

Among those receiving their awards from Mr Michael Palmer, Member of Parliament, Punggol East SMC were Sabeena Beevi, Nandhini d/o Bala Krishnan and Sangari d/o Sandramogan, who won Best

THE GREAT HUNT 100 Primary 5 and 6 students from Project GuidE went a-hunting during the June holidays, in the remote North of Singapore – actually it was at the tame grounds of the Republic Polytechnic! A motivational treasure hunt, the event was held on 18 June.

Those who embarked on ‘The Great Hunt – Hunting for Success’ were exposed to the basic aspects of time management, maximising of one’s potential, self-understanding, goal setting and self-motivation.

The lessons learnt, through riddles and challenges, certainly made this a morning to remember for all participants!

Overall Academic Performance Awards for the PSLE, GCE ‘O’ Level and GCE ‘N’ Level categories respectively. Sabeena, who was in STEP for all of six months, saw her Maths jump three grades from an E to B, while her Science marks improved two grades to B. She has since been posted to Serangoon Secondary’s Express stream, much to the delight of her family.

Sangari, who is in Secondary 5NA, was with STEP for a year. Her grades climbed four levels in Maths and three levels in Science, a world of difference from when she was getting U-s (Ungraded) for those subjects. This improvement means a lot to Sangari, who also receives financial support.

An astounding six-grade leap from F9 to B3 was what Nandhini achieved for her ‘O’ Level Science. Hard work during her two years attending STEP also saw her Maths improve four grades to B3 as well.

Together with the A1, two A2s and another two Bs, her good grades have helped her into Jurong Junior College. Nandhini has also been awarded the MOE bursary to encourage her progress.

SINDA congratulates all award winners and wishes them continued success in their studies!

On 16 July, 30 students sitting for the ‘O’ Levels this year got a head start to their revision, when they attended a Maths seminar at the Punjabi Language Centre at Bedok Green Primary School.

The two-hour programme by education trainers Nascans Pte Ltd was an intensive, motivating session that helped the students identify critically weak areas, such as Algebra and Trigonometry, and tackle them strategically. In addition, participants learnt to design effective examination revision plans and to set achievable goals.

From C to A Students taking their landmark exams (PSLE, ‘O’ Levels, ‘A’ Levels) next year should look out for more such seminars coming your way!

MaD aBouT MaTHS

The Math Rocks! ‘O’ Level Mathematics workshop on 13 August by NASCANS was a great hit with the students. Here’s what they said:

"Awesome!!"

"Interesting - Eshwaran and fun! An entertaining "Very effective! way to learn!" Thank you. I like it very much." - Sindhu - Prateep

For the 62 ‘A’ Level students who descended on Yio Chu Kang Secondary on 16 July, the goal was clear: they were going to find out how to get their grades up from a “C” to an “A”. There to help them were trainers from Nascans Pte Ltd, who coached them in their H2 Maths and General Paper preparations.

The whole-day C2A ‘A’ Level Seminar saw the students tackle past examination questions with newly-learnt strategies for Maths, and acquire tips on General Paper topics – not least among which were useful media resources and websites for their research. Not only did they gain from brainstorming sessions, but the participants also walked away with increased motivation and confidence for the coming examinations.

WHaT DoeS

MaTHS Mean To you?

THERE MUST BE MORE TO MATHS than just being another hurdle for students to overcome. Why does it get so much attention that the underperformance of Indian students in the subject remains a key issue for SINDA? The reason for this is that numeracy is as important as literacy, especially in this age of digital technology. A sound foundation in Maths is key to career success as mastery of the subject is a gateway to good jobs and financial freedom. Essential in business, it is also needed in practically every aspect

of our lives, from money management to calculating distance and time.

If you want to improve your Maths skills, SINDA is always ready with innovative and engaging courses. Whether you are a Primary or Secondary school student, SINDA has a programme to help you. All it takes is that you join us with the determination to improve.

For example the recent Maths & Me! Intensive tuition programme was from July to September 2011. It was a 12-session initiative aimed at preparing weaker students

for the PSLE Maths examination. Qualified and experienced tutors paid special attention to those topics that students found difficult.

For upper secondary students, the Mad About Maths seminar in August served as a survival tool kit for ‘O’ Level preparations, and unravelled the Maths challenges many students faced.

Look out for more such Maths initiatives by SINDA next year.

STUDENTS

‘O’ Level Maths Seminar

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SYC Marks a First!

BRIDGING mINDS. SHApING TOmORROW. That was the theme of the first-ever SINDA Youth Leaders Seminar (SYLS) held on 16 to 18 June. The residential programme at Republic Polytechnic marked a milestone for our SINDA Youth Club (SYC), especially significant in SINDA’s 20th year.

Launched by Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance & Manpower and Chairman of SINDA, the inaugural event is another instance of SINDA’s investment in our youth.

…leadership is about how much one influences others through a deed.

All of us are here for a purpose, and we have to serve the purpose without expecting a thank you. As youths, you have to take the initiative to mentor fellow students who are deprived and lack support.”

– mr S.R. Nathan

SInDa youTH leaDeRS SeMInaR (SylS) 2011 Over the three days and two nights of the seminar, 53 student leaders from various post-secondary educational institutions participated in panel discussions, fun team-building activities and leadership workshops. Industry and political leaders such as Mr Tharman and SINDA’s Vice-President Mr Viswa Sadasivan engaged them on societal and world issues.

Chua Chu Kang ITE College student Ahmad Askar Ali was among those deeply inspired. He said: “One of the speakers said that leadership is about how much one influences others through a deed. That statement moved me.”

Participants were challenged to realise their vision for a successful future, one which integrates our cultural identity. National Junior College student Greeshma Chandran summed it up: “It was good and truly an enriching experience.”

The SYLS was closed by Ms Indranee Rajah, Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar GRC and President of SINDA.

PReSIDenTIal DIalogue This was the challenge former President Mr S.R. Nathan issued to some 85 youths at the Presidential Dialogue organised by the SINDA Youth Club (SYC) on 13 July 2011. Mr Nathan shared his thoughts on various matters that centred on Indian youths such as mentorship, integrating with foreign talents and working together as a united Indian community.

Youths and young professionals also engaged in a lively discourse with Mr Nathan and enjoyed his accounts about his experiences during the Second World War, his former career as a medical social worker and the challenges he encountered in his role as Singapore’s President.

Singapore Polytechnic student, Lossini Jeyapandian, was deeply inspired by Mr Nathan's words and agreed with Mr Nathan’s thoughts on integrating with foreign talents and on ways the Indian community could be advanced.

“What I liked about the president was his practical advice. He told us to move away from fault-finding – we should look at our faults first before criticising others,” lossini commented.

The dialogue session concluded with a surprise belated birthday celebration for former President Nathan.

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fOR THE 50 UppER SECONDARy STUDENTS who had been looking forward to their stint at the annual Camp Kathiroli, it was worth all the anticipation.

For four days and three nights from 14 to 17 June the youngsters went on educational field trips to local universities in addition to attending leadership and critical thinking workshops. It was not just

learning on the agenda, though – their creativity and enthusiasm were tapped and put on show for the highly entertaining ‘Talent Time’, which was themed ‘Thaaragai’ (Star).

The camp at the National University of Singapore (NUS), which aimed to expose students to post-secondary educational opportunities and provide motivation for

setting higher goals, was organised by SINDA and the NUS Indian Cultural Society (NUS ICS). NUS ICS Vice-President Arjun Narayan Moorthy was pleased with the outcome. He said: “On the whole, the students felt that the camp would go a long way in helping them achieve their goals.”

Time to Play!

SINDA keeps the holidays fun, even as you learn.

About 300 of our STEP students enjoyed a whole variety of enrichment activities during the June holidays, on top of the usual revision programmes. From trips with Singapore Ducktours to excursions to the Science Centre, fun was in no short supply. Some kids experienced a memorable day out at Snow City while others took part in the Urban Street Team Workshop. There was even a fabulous day out at the Universal Studios!

eye-oPenIng aCCounT CHallengeS youTHS

HOW DOES ONE EmUlATE THE SUCCESS Of AN EmINENT BUSINESSmAN? SINDA Youth Club’s latest instalment of the In-Conversation Series had Mr Moonshi Mohsenruddin, CEO & founder of multi-million dollar company CommGate Solutions, sharing his personal and business insights with some 30 youths.

The session on 29 July, which saw Mr Moonshi describe how he overcame failure and severe challenges to become a successful entrepreneur, inspired many. Participant Haresh Kumar, 25, also took away some entrepreneurial tips: “I learnt much about setting up infrastructure for a new company, and how new media can be used effectively to reach customers.”

Besides being a successful entrepreneur, Mr Moonshi was a nominee for the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry “Promising Entrepreneur of the Year 2010” award.

yOUTH

inspiring new Stars

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Sharing the Festive Joy W

HEN THE fESTIVE SEASON COmES AlONG, not every family can afford to celebrate it. But it is at times like these that a helping hand is most welcome. This year, SINDA, together with the Indian Activity Executive Committees (IAECs), religious organisations, volunteers, and social groups, is spreading some joy to those who struggle to find a reason to celebrate. Some 1,200 families in need will receive “Celebrate” packs with vouchers and goodies over Hari Raya, Deepavali and Christmas.

And what’s a celebration without decorations and some noise? The gift packs come with festive decorations and party poppers, sparklers, wax lamps and greeting cards for the families to fully experience that festive cheer.

The first of the “Celebrate! Bringing festive cheer to you” distributions was kicked off on 6 August by Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Finance and Manpower and Chairman of SINDA’s Board of Trustees.

Subsequent distribution sessions are scheduled for October and December, in time for the other two festivities.

DID YOU KNOW...

The Western part of Singapore has its own SINDA Service Centre? Indian families residing near Jurong Point Shopping Centre now have convenient access to our various services and programmes!

That’s reason to be excited, because there is always something happening just for you – children, students, youths, adults and senior citizens alike. Come as a family – you will benefit from a slew of enrichment activities. There are developmental and reading activities for the little ones, educational programmes for the school-going kids and motivational talks for parents.

The SINDA Service Centre is open on weekdays till 7pm, and from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. Well-connected to other family service centres, it is your one-stop information and referral centre.

Come and explore the host of amenities available. There is something for everyone – whether it is computer facilities for students doing online research and assignments, or simply a conducive study area; gaming consoles for youths and senior citizens, and even a weekly legal clinic.

Find out what’s happening this week at the SINDA Service Centre.

Call 6792 8167 or just drop by at #06-03 Jurong Point Shopping Centre when you are in the area!

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GIVING OUR CHILDREN A HEAD START W

E All HAVE DREAmS fOR OUR CHIlDREN – for their success in life and education. But can you imagine that it all starts before they turn five?

That’s the critical period when a child’s brain forms important connections and is organised in the way that will determine his adult capabilities. While this brain activity continues throughout life, it is in the early years that the brain absorbs the most.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, when he was Minister for Community Development, Youth & Sports (MCYS), spoke at the Child Care Seminar 2010 about how “our earliest experiences…are crucial for developing the vital personal and social qualities that enable success later in life… The key point is that we have to focus on the really early years.” pRE-SCHOOl IS THE WAy TO DO IT Nurturing your young child’s mind does not have to be a headache, though!

After all, it is well-known that “it takes a village to raise a child”.

Our earliest experiences… are crucial for developing the vital personal and social qualities that enable success later in life…

The key point is that we have to focus on the really early years.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan

Help is readily available through the hundreds of quality pre-schools in Singapore, where you can be assured of a sound foundation for your child’s development.

At pre-school, your child will be exposed to a wide range of subjects and experiences that busy parents may not be able to offer. The head start will also be an advantage when they enter primary school, allowing them to maximise their potential.

The government through agencies like the MCYS ensures that low income is not an impediment to early education, with subsidies for both Nursery and Kindergarten levels increased this year. All parents have to do, is to take that first step and enrol your child in a preschool.

Still not convinced? A report funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health published this year declared, “High-quality preschool program produces long-term economic payoff”. It showed that early education for children generated lasting economic benefits, even for children who completed only part of it. Interestingly, the benefits were substantially higher for those from low-income and at-risk families. In addition, the long-term gains were seen not only for the children but for society as well.

Don’t let your child miss out! If there is one thing you can do for your child, it is to sign him or her up at a pre-school centre now. You will reap the rewards and rejoice together in years to come.

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geTTIng THe CoMMunITy InVolVeD IN ADDRESSING OUR ISSUES SINDA has spent a good half of its 20th Anniversary with its ears to the ground, engaging different sectors of the Indian Singaporean community on issues that affect us. It culminated at the SINDA Community Forum (SCF) held on 2 July at Republic Polytechnic’s Agora Hall, for 400 leading representatives of the Indian community.

Speaking at the Forum, Ms Indranee Rajah, President of SINDA and Member of Parliament for Tanjong Pagar GRC said: “The next 10 years are going to be very exciting in terms of addressing the education issues of Indian kids and social issues that affect the Indian Singaporean community. There is a big role for community involvement and the SINDA Community Forum is an excellent platform where these pertinent issues can be discussed and addressed.”

{ } “A platform for youths to express themselves will foster a good relationship with the host. SINDA needs to be a name that is synonymous with fun.”

Suhanthi Thirignasambhantham STEp Tutor

With every child that receives help, the problems facing the community are reduced by a generation.

Pillay P Krishnan Vice-Principal West Grove Primary School “A BRIGHTER fUTURE, TOGETHER” Planning the next decade is a big task, but the community really came together for this exercise.

Through 16 focus group discussions, two dialogue sessions, surveys, quantitative data from national sources and three specially-commissioned study teams, enough constructive feedback was collected in the first half of the year to show us the way forward. The SCF was then held as a final consultative session, to validate opinions and to address the identified issues.

Dr N Varaprasad, a SINDA Life Trustee and Chairman of the SINDA 2020 Review Committee, presented the findings. Experienced facilitators then kept participants actively engaged in breakout sessions, group presentations and a panel discussion. mEDIA AS A mAGNET The role of the media in reaching out to the community was one issue that was raised at the Forum. There was a strong call for the media, especially free-to-air channels Oli 96.8FM and Vasantham, to take on a greater, more positive role in engaging the community.

Mr Yokanathan Ramakrishnan, Senior Lecturer and Section Head (Radio) of the School of Film & Media Studies at Ngee Ann Polytechnic said: “Media and social networking platforms are the most effective now. Of these, Vasantham and Oli 96.8FM would be able to mobilise the Indian community quite successfully, so we should tap on their strengths.”

HElpING THE NEXT GENERATION “With every child that receives help, the problems facing the community are reduced by a generation,” said Vice-Principal of West Grove Primary School Mr Pillay P Krishnan. Indeed, this was a recurring theme – the importance of reaching out to children and youths in the community.

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COmmUNITy

Mr Naseer Ghani, President of Singapore Kadayanallur Muslim League, agreed, saying: “The Indian community should successfully plan and meet the challenges and expectations posed by the youth of today.”

EDUCATION REmAINS KEy SINDA’s core focus remains largely on raising the academic profile of Indian students, and many recommendations on how to achieve this were forthcoming. These ranged from roping in celebrities to promote the learning of Maths as a fun subject, to increasing parental participation in children’s education and getting greater numbers of our kids to attend pre-schools.

Associate Professor Mary Daniel from KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital who does developmental paediatrics emphasised the importance of early intervention. Suggesting that SINDA should consider talks for new parents and parents-to-be, she stressed: “Our efforts as a community must start when the mother is pregnant.”

{ } “As a youth, I sometimes lose motivation in the course of my studies. Motivational talks should be made compulsory.

Parents could accompany their kids and get tips on how to motivate them.”

V paramesvary Student

NEXT STEpS The forum ended with the participants reaffirming their personal commitment to work with SINDA to engage and uplift the community. Their unstinting support and that of the constituencies they represent will help set the tone for the community’s progress in the next decade.

Delegates at the SCF were in agreement that the event was beneficial for the community. Participant Mr B Buvanakrishna commented, “The Forum was well-organised, and taken to a higher level with contributions from all sectors and different age groups.”

He added, “I strongly believe that things will change.”

SINDA’s new strategies will be revealed soon. Look out for the full review report!

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A CONVERSATION WITH...

CHIEF OF ARMY

MG RAVINDER SINGH SPEAKS...

Meet Singapore’s newly appointed Chief of Army, MG Ravinder Singh, who is also SINDA’s Term Trustee.

1. What is your involvement in youth-related activities?

What spurs your interest in this generation?

The present youth are part of a dynamic and energised generation with lots of potential. However, they live in a complex and fast-evolving environment, full of challenges and opportunities. More than ever, the youth of today need a compass to help them navigate through life. Good values are such a compass.

I have been involved with a youth group over the last six years. The purpose of the group is to engage youth as they confront challenges in life growing into young adults. The programme is based on universal human values such as truth and right conduct. We hope to bring out the positive values that will guide them to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to their families and society.

MG Ravinder Singh at SINDA's In Conversation Series in 2009

I am the current Chief of Army. I joined the Singapore Armed Forces on a SAF Scholarship just after I enlisted for National Service.

I have been a part of SAF since then except for the last two years when I was Deputy Secretary (Technology) in the Ministry of Defence.

2. May we know more about you?

I grew up with very modest means. My father passed away when I was four years old and my mother singlehandedly brought my siblings and me up. We lived in a kampong house in Jalan Besar first before moving into a one-room HDB rental flat.

I was fortunate to have been provided with opportunities for education which made it possible for me to get a scholarship from the SAF. I graduated in Engineering from Oxford University and subsequently completed a Masters in Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In the SAF, particularly in the Army, I have been given many opportunities to develop myself, including spending a year on the Kuwait/Iraq border as a UN Military Observer.

3. Please share with us an anecdote on any youths you have come across.

There was a young man who occasionally attended our sessions.

We were not certain that we had been able to engage him and imbue in him the importance of doing the right things. After being in the group for a year, he shared with us an experience while working part-time at a cinema. One of his responsibilities was to clean the cinema after each movie screening. One day while cleaning the cinema he found a wallet with a large sum of money. His initial thought was to take the money but he changed his mind and handed the wallet to the manager who returned it to the rightful owner. A few days later, he was called up to the office by the manager. Standing in the office was the person who had lost the wallet. The young man said that the satisfaction he got

A CONVERSATION WITH...

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from seeing the grateful man was more than he would have had had he taken and spent the money. This episode strengthened my belief that every youth wants to do the right thing but sometimes some of them get misguided and need a gentle hand to show them the way.

4. What are your thoughts on the aspirations of Indian youth in Singapore? How can the community spur them to aim high and not settle for less than excellence?

As I mentioned earlier, youth today have many opportunities but also face distractions that divert their attention and energy. They should be doing their best in school and focusing on activities to develop themselves fully. Indian youth are no different. It is important for them to have positive role models who can shape their aspirations and motivate them to strive for excellence. We need to engage our youth and influence them to concentrate their efforts on getting a good education and that sacrifices need to be made in achieving their academic goals.

5. As a scholar yourself, what inspired you in your education journey?

I wanted to be an engineer when I was young and this motivated me to excel in my studies. I also enjoyed participating in sports, which helped me develop discipline and focus. My mother and my sisters also placed a lot of emphasis on education. I knew I had to do well in my studies if I was going to be successful in life.

6. Your take on parents’ role in the upbringing of children?

Parents play a very big role in shaping the values and attitudes of a child. This is particularly important in the early years when children are more receptive to their influence. Parents must

demonstrate and continually emphasise positive values. It is their duty to bring out the morals that are inherent in children.

Parents should give priority to their children’s education. This means taking time to see what the children have been doing in school as well as providing a supportive and conducive home environment. Children need the attention and love of their parents. If children are properly guided they are less likely to run astray as teenagers and youth.

7. What advice would you give to youth preparing to go or are currently in National Service?

National Service is an opportunity not only to serve our country but also an opportunity to develop resilience. I would encourage them to do their best during their National Service. The more they put in, the more they will get out of it. National Service will give them opportunities to discover and develop their potential so that they become more confident and more resilient young men. It prepares them for the challenges in life.

8. What thoughts would you like to leave with us, especially our youth?

Today’s youth are very fortunate. They have many opportunities and choices to look forward to. I would encourage them to set clear goals in life by prioritising their time and energy to achieve these goals for themselves. Education is an important foundation on which they can build their dreams.

Lastly I would like to extend my appreciation to SINDA, and all SINDA volunteers and well-wishers that have over the years made significant contributions in helping and guiding our youth.

These youth are our future and all our efforts will ensure better days for them and for Singapore in the long run.

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PROJECT G VE BACKGROUND Project Give is SINDA’s annual campaign to raise funds to support the educational needs of school going children from low income families. Initiated in 2001 as a community wide effort, Project Give offers a wonderful opportunity for organisations and individuals to come together with a common spirit of community and purpose to ensure that no child’s education is compromised due to financial constraints.

Donor Mr P. James "I am not able to give my time, but Project Give provides me with an excellent avenue to share some of my blessings with others who are less fortunate."

Maisarah, a bursary recipient, tells us, "The bursary helps me with my pocket money and transport. I aspire to be a teacher when I grow up."

Meherosh is another inspired beneficiary – "I want to be a doctor when I grow up so that I can give back to the community!"

DonaTIon MoDeS

yOU CAN mAKE A DIffERENCE IN A CHIlD’S lIfE THROUGH yOUR DONATION. In doing so, you are helping to build the future of our Indian community.

You can also make your donation at the SINDA Project Give booth. The booth will be located at the Deepavali festival Bazaar at Campbell lane. The booth will be open from 24 September to 25 October 2011.

Operating hours: Weekdays 4 pm to 9 pm Weekends 11 am to 9 pm eDONATION Visit www.sinda.org.sg/projectgive

By CASH / CHEQUE / CREDIT CARD • Drop by SINDA at No.1 Beatty Road.

• Cheques to be made payable to “SINDA”. Please indicate “Project Give 2011” on the reverse.

• Through donation boxes situated at several restaurants and shops around Little India.

Honorary Secretary of the Singapore Telugu Samajam Mr Pericherla Bangaru Raju "We believe Project Give helps to build a strong Indian community by providing better education to underprivileged children."

pROJECT GIVE

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INKING CLOSER TIES SINDA recently re-affirmed ties with Narpani Pearavai, the People’s Association Indian Activity Executive Committees Co-ordinating Council (PAIAECC), with the signing of a fresh Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Narpani Pearavai Convention held on 17 July at the Raffles City Convention Centre.

Narpani also signed MOUs with the Indian Association and the Singapore Indian Education Trust (SIET). Focused on initiatives in key areas of education, financial assistance and sports within the Indian community, the MOU signings were witnessed by more than 1,000 participants at the Narpani Convention.

Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance and Manpower and SINDA Chairman was Guest of Honour.

A previous MOU signed between Narpani Pearavai and SINDA in 2009 addressed continuous skills training and employment issues.

Focuses on initiatives in key areas of education, financial assistance and sports within the Indian community.

IBR Dialogue Series: Inaugural Address by DPM Senior Indian professionals who make up the Indian Business-leaders Roundtable (IBR) came together at the Pan Pacific Hotel on 6 July for the inaugural session of the IBR Dialogue Series with DPM Tharman.

In his opening address, Mr Girija Pande, Chairman of the IBR, noted that the success achieved by expatriate Indians in Singapore has opened up a disparity in incomes and lifestyles. He said, “if unchecked this disparity could create tensions. It isolates us from the communities which have generally been very welcoming.”

In describing the IBR as an “integrating platform”, Mr Pande identified the IBR as “a brand extension and part of SINDA’s outreach partnering programme” and was warm about the enthusiasm shown by IBR members so far in contributing towards mainstream Singaporean Indian issues.

Mr Tharman revealed the IBR logo to the 50 members present, before participating in a panel discussion.

Ms Indranee Rajah, President of SINDA, closed the night with encouraging anecdotes

of how some IBR members have already helped SINDA. For example, when Ms Anju Patwardhan of Standard Chartered Bank made her donation upon joining IBR, she facilitated a donation from her company as well.

IBR intends to organise four to six key activities a year to benefit both its members as well as SINDA.

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ROOM(s) FOR GROWth pARTNERS

THREE ROOmS WERE OffICIAlly lAUNCHED ON 5 AUGUST By mR S DHANABAlAN, CHAIRmAN Of TEmASEK HOlDINGS AND lIfE TRUSTEE Of SINDA, AND pAST SINDA pRESIDENT. A Kids Club, a Youth Hub and a Computer Lab – are the exciting new spots at SINDA which have come through the efforts of a company from India and Indian entrepreneurs who have settled here in Singapore.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) not only set up the SINDATCS Computer Lab, donating hardware and software, but also volunteered trainers to develop and teach IT skills, including electronic transactions and social networking. Mr Girija Pande, Chairman of TCS Asia Pacific said, “we’re delighted to help improve the facilities at community organisations like SINDA and strengthen access to information. Corporations must improve their social responsibility… (It) enhances the general morale of the environment we operate in.”

Design and architecture firm Space Matrix, one of the fastestgrowing in Asia-Pacific, provided the design for two rooms for kids and youth. In addition, the firm contributed towards the cost of setting up the room that will host the kids club. This new SINDA-Space Matrix Kids Club, is a colourful, multi-faceted venue that will host the brand-new SINDA-Lego Robotics Club, which offers an innovative way for kids to learn Maths and Science.

Space Matrix founder Ms Shagufta Anurag said, “Space Matrix is happy to support SINDA in their venture to reach out to children and youths. We hope that our designs will enhance the experience of those using the rooms. We are proud to donate towards the Kids Club and wish the children will be inspired through its activities.”

A Kids Club, a Youth Hub and a Computer Lab – exciting new spots at SINDA!

YOUR VOICE

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Behind the Scenes as an SLO Who is the person who helps our children get academic help when they need it? Who directs them to our programmes like STEP? Working quietly behind the scenes as points of contact between SINDA and schools all over Singapore are some very special SINDA Liaison Officers (SLOs).

The SLO scheme was introduced in 2007 to enable SINDA to tap on teachers to educate and create awareness among students and parents of SINDA’s programmes and services.

Mr Gana, a teacher at Mayflower Secondary School, has three years of experience as an SLO. He recalls: “Being a teacher who looks after the welfare of academically weak students in the school, in particular the Indian students, I was asked to take on the job in 2009. I gladly accepted.”

Mr Gana works very closely with the SINDA STEP Centre principal, Mr Rudy Shahril, to recruit students

…there is a sense of purpose in what I am doing. from his school for STEP classes. He monitors their attendance and takes appropriate action to ensure they attend lessons regularly. Other responsibilities include managing logistics for the centre and publicising SINDA activities to the school population.

“The best thing about being an SLO is that there is a sense of purpose in what I am doing,” he tells us.

“I know that in my own little ways, I contribute to the academic improvement of students in the school. Through SINDA, I am also contributing to the community at large and that is what I find rewarding.”

Indeed, other teachers at the school welcome the scheme and see Mr Gana as a person who can help, often referring weak students to him.

He shares these words of wisdom with his charges: “‘First impressions count but last impressions last’ – Indian students have to perform and leave on the minds of others positive impressions that will last.”

Facebook comments

Twitter Comments

The video is beautiful. Great job in portraying the importance of dreaming big SINDA. Thank you for being an agent of hope to the many young lives out there.

- Roy Edelastein

@mysinda e pleasure is all mine.

Besides I’m so glad SINDA has gone thru a total transformation. I’m lovein’ it! Keep it going! @supermini

(If you've not watched it, go to page 2 for more information!)

Love the development of SINDA, & how you're opening up to new ideas necessary to move our indian community forward. Congratulations!

- Azeeza Jalaludeen

@mysinda I think there would be a larger intake if there were Saturday classes. More students would be able to make it @Funkyfudgey Hey Guys Follow @mysinda[Singapore Organisation]! See their cool Twits and Help they do to people! A great organisation! Follow them up! @itzmcdivin

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About SINDA VISION To build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

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

Chairman, Board of Trustees Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam

VALUES Respect, our culture Integrity, our foundation Service, our promise Excellence, our pursuit

Patron Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

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 Bobby Chin Yoke Choong Mr Ravi Menon

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mr Inderjit Singh Ms Indranee Rajah Mr Haider M Sithawalla Mr V Shankar Mr M Rajaram Mr Hsieh Fu Hua MG Ravinder Singh Mr R Jayachandran Mr Gautam Banerjee Mr Girija Pande Advisors Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Mr S Iswaran Mr Hri Kumar Nair

President Ms Indranee Rajah Vice Presidents Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai, PBM Secretary Mr Sarjit Singh 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