SINDA Connections - March 2016 by SINDA

Thanking the Community MCI (P) 102/01/2015

MARCH 2016

Ready to Go Back to School 08

Around the World in an Afternoon

PERSONAL BREAKTHROUGH LED HIM TO DO MORE FOR OTHERS David King

GROOMED TO LEAD

09 A SPIN ON SPORTS

11 APPRECIATING TUTORS

Contents

01 02 03

• CEO’s Note • Meet Three of Our AwardWinning STEP Students…

• Dad and Mum Get Ready for Primary School!

• Tutors Begin the New Year with Fresh Directions • Appreciating Tutors

• Ready to Go Back to School

04-05

• Groomed to Lead

• Rainbow50 • Thanking the Community

06-07

• Personal Breakthrough Led Him to Do More for Others

• Pic-O-Mania • About Us

PUBLISHER Singapore Indian Development Association EDITORIAL TEAM Corporate & Marketing Communications Division, SINDA CHIEF EDITOR Ravindran Nagalingam, COO, SINDA PRODUCTION EDITOR Dhanasegaran Narayanasamy DESIGN & LAYOUT Green House Design + Communications Pte Ltd PRINTER Stamford Press Pte Ltd Licence No: L022/04/2012

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

08 • Around the World in an Afternoon • Not Just Kicking Around

• PYD Programmes’ Award Winners • A SPIN on Sports

To inform us of a change in mailing address, send your new address to connections@sinda.org.sg TO CONTRIBUTE towards the SINDA CPF Fund: (to start contributing or increase contributions) Tel: 1800 295 4554 www.sinda.org.sg

CEO’s Note Dear Friends, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very Happy New Year and to thank you for your continuous support for SINDA’s initiatives.

K Barathan CEO, SINDA

SINDA’s main strategic thrusts are in the areas of education, youth, family and community. These thrusts are not standalone; instead, these need to work together, to achieve our ultimate goal of ensuring that every one of our Indian children are successful and confident learners, ready to take on the challenges that life presents them. Our students cannot be successful if a strong educational foundation is not laid from an early age; they cannot become confident if they are not groomed early; they cannot focus on academics if their home environments are not conducive for their learning; and for all our students to achieve success, the whole community must stand behind them. Hence it is imperative that these different components work hand in hand if we are to mature and become successful as a community. As the New Year unfolds, it is important that I share more on SINDA’s academic programmes. While our students continue to progress and make improvements in their PSLE, O-Level and N-Level landmark examinations, we can do much better. We need to set our aim higher and push ourselves towards better achievements, both in academics as well as in holistic development. As you read this, our flagship tutorial programmes, STEP and Project Teach, are in full swing. Both programmes focus on assisting our students to improve in all core subjects, especially in Mathematics and Science. This is done through quality classroom teaching, individualised curricula that cater to the different learning needs of our students, e-learning to make lessons more interactive and appealing, as well as personal coaching and enrichment activities. SINDA’s tutorial programmes are meant to complement what is taught in mainstream schools. Annually, over half of our expenditure—or about $12 million—is invested in our educational programmes. These programmes are also heavily subsidised for students, with the dual aim of ensuring that education is affordable for all children in the Singaporean Indian community and that no child should be denied educational support due to their financial circumstances. For instance, STEP tuition may cost $150 a month, per child. However, with the various subsidy schemes in place, each student pays between $5 to $60. For children from families that are less well off, we provide further subsidies and waive off all fees where required. Such efforts underscore our strong commitment towards uplifting our students. I would also like to dispel the notion that SINDA’s educational programmes mainly cater to low-

performing or low-income students. Our customised curricula are differentiated based on the learning needs of each child. For students who do well, they will find that the curricula challenges them further. For slower-learning students, the differentiated curricula ensures that they first grasp and understand the fundamentals of each subject, before they move on to more challenging topics. I am confident that SINDA’s tutorial programmes are on par with many of the private tuition programmes in the industry. In addition, our teaching pool, consisting mainly of paid MOE-trained teachers, is overseen by academic experts on secondment from the Ministry of Education. This, coupled with our curricula that is aligned to that of the Ministry of Education’s, ensures that our students are provided the best possible leg up. We see 6,000 students on average in our academic programmes each year, and I am heartened that a number of them have achieved better results in their landmark examinations and have gone on to established schools. To me, this is proof of how well our programmes are doing. However, a programme, no matter how strong, cannot produce results on its own. We need to motivate our students to take a keen interest in their studies; we need to invest time and energy into guiding these children in the right paths; and ultimately, take ownership and responsibility for the successful future of our children. If you are a parent or know a child in need of help, I encourage you to take the first step. Enrol them in SINDA’s academic programmes, and witness the difference for yourselves. You can get more information about our programmes through our website at www.sinda.org.sg or our hotline 1800 295 4554. Let us work together to ensure a good future for our community.

Meet Three of Our Award-Winning STEP Students… Not sure if the STEP programme is for you? For some of our best students, their success through STEP exceeded their expectations by far! Be inspired by their stories:

Vaseem Ahamad (Best Overall at PSLE) For Vaseem’s mother, the PSLE year was a trying one. He was “very hyperactive”, always intrigued by the things around him, and finding it difficult to focus on his academics. Not surprisingly, his marks were all well below average. “He was continuously either making careless mistakes or completely forgetting concepts,” she recalls. Fortunately, once Vaseem enrolled in STEP, she saw a total turn-around. Because topics were taught ahead, Vaseem soon found keeping up at school a breeze. Over months, through frequent pep talks and with guidance from his STEP tutors, he also became more disciplined and focused, and learnt to prioritise his studies. Sure enough, Vaseem reaped the fruit of his labour at the SA1 exams. The three-grade jump in Maths and four-grade improvement in Science from 20% to 71% helped him clinch 3rd place in class. Vaseem has proven to himself that effort and attitude make all the difference, and he is without doubt capable of achieving his goals.

Faaizah Binte Syed Sultan (Best Overall at N Level) “STEP has motivated me to do better in my studies,” Faaizah shares. A STEP pupil since Primary 5, she enjoyed the small class size and friendly challenge with her peers there. She adds “My tutors—Ms Nalini, Mr Jaspal and Mr Manan—guided me well, taught me discipline, and never lost faith that I would do well.” In fact, Faaizah appreciated STEP lessons so much that she chose on her own accord to continue through secondary school as well. It helped, too, that tuition was affordable for the family of eight, whose finances were tight. Things are certainly looking up for Faaizah, who is now studying to fulfil her ambition of becoming an optometrist.

Abirami Arulkandan (Best Overall at O Level) Described as “self-motivated”, Abirami was a STEP student for four years at the Clementi Centre. “My Maths improved from an E8 to A2!” she exclaims. Abirami also saw double-grade improvements in English and Science, leading to an overall L1R5 score of 10 in her O levels, which enabled her to enroll in Pioneer Junior College. The all-rounder, who was also a student councillor and Staff Sergeant in NPCC, would like to give a warm shout-out to her tutor Ms Germaine to thank her for her help.

SINDA STEP Tuition Registration 2016 CALLING ALL PRIMARY AND SECONDARY STUDENTS! Want to score well in your exams this year? SINDA STEP Tuition is onto another exciting year of quality and affordable tutoring in: • English • Maths & Additional Maths • Science Centre registration is now open to all students! Log on to sinda.org.sg or call 1800 295 4554 for more information about the various centres around you. Let SINDA’s dedicated and caring tutors bring out the best in you!

Ready to Go Back to School

While most of us understand that education is key to getting out of poverty, sometimes just putting the kids through school can be a financial struggle. That’s why SINDA’s annual Back to School Festival (BTSF) gives families something to cheer about! On 22 November 2015, the BTSF distributed 1,200 school kits, comprising shoe, book and stationery vouchers worth $180. These school kits form part of the $12 million that SINDA invests in education-related activities each year. Held together with the BTSF was the Indian Community Bursary Awards Ceremony (ICBAC) where 570 students from low-income families received various bursaries. These include the SINDA Bursary and Pre-school Bursary, Before-and-After School Care Subsidy, TRC Bursary, SIET Bursary and other educational subsidies, which were awarded to students ranging from primary to university level. ICBAC is jointly organised by SINDA, the Singapore Indian Education Trust (SIET) and the Tamils Representative Council (TRC). For the 2,700 who thronged the Umar Pulavar Tamil Language Centre that Sunday morning, it was indeed a joyous time. Guests were entertained by popular Vasantham artistes who were part of a stage show segment at the BTSF. Alongside, there were workshops conducted for the kids as well as exhibits for them to visit. Booths were also set up by various assistance agencies to introduce resources for families. A workshop and skit on positive parenting helped equip parents with better parenting methods. In her speech, Guest of Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, Senior Minister of State for Finance and Law, singled out 30-year-old single mum Priya Darshini as someone who has successfully developed herself. The family’s sole breadwinner, Priya had found her skills insufficient to provide for her two young children. However, after being referred to SINDA, Priya completed a fully-subsidised childcare course and further upgraded herself with an advanced course. Now, Ms Indranee noted, Priya is well on her way to becoming financially independent, and “has gained enough confidence to handle her personal issues and financial matters on her own.” Ms Indranee, who is also President of SINDA, urged those present: “You must always stay relevant and competitive, in the face of a quickly changing work and economic landscape.” For all families in the Indian community who face challenges, events like this are an encouragement. As Ms Indranee put it, the BTSF “is testament to the strong partnership between community organisations… rallying together for the good of the society.”

Groomed to Lead

Since the start of 2015, they had come through three sessions of the SINDA Peer Leadership Course. They put their abilities on trial, serving the SINDA Peer Leadership Term by assisting in a Positive Youth Development programme. Finally, 15 among them journeyed overseas to hone their skills in the concluding component of the Peer Leaders Programme. These teenagers are SINDA’s new generation of leaders. It is a serious role, but one that comes with a good dose of fun along the way, too. While at the SINDA Advanced Peer Leadership Course (SAPLC) held in Melaka last November, the young ones put their whole hearts into the activities. As participant Rathi testified, “The camp provided a lot of chances to grow my leadership skills. At the same time, it was really fun!” The core of the course was a simulation exercise in planning a mock-up camp. This included aspects such as budgeting, logistics and safety. The teens took turns to be in charge, learning to follow as well as lead. With no handphones or gadgets allowed, even waking up in the morning was an exercise in cooperation!

Rathi D/O Ravi Chandran (16, Juying Secondary School), who describes herself as a “quiet and shy girl”, was anxious when her turn to be in charge came around, but with the encouragement of her group mates, her self-assurance grew. “On the last day, they told me I had done a good job and that I should be confident,” she beams. Like many others, the highlight of the camp for Shamini Bala (15, Dunman Secondary School) was the Situational Test. This was a challenge in which the youths experienced working under pressure and learnt to support each other through difficulties. She reflects, “It really helped me come out of my shell and realise my leadership potential.” Agreeing, Divyan Nair S/O C. A. Shreedharan Nair (19, ITE College Central) admits, “I felt the stress of leading a team through the challenges along the way.” As for Kesavan S/O Krisnan (17, Admiralty Secondary School), coming out of his comfort zone made it a memorable camp. “We learned values such as awareness, communication, and thinking on our feet. We were happy with our achievements. We learned a lot of things at the camp, but learning does not stop here—it is a life-long journey, and we have more to learn.” With many good memories of the leadership journey last year, these youths are looking forward to more learning experiences in 2016.

PERSONAL BREAKTHROUGH LED HIM TO DO MORE FOR OTHERS With his four companies doing well, and a beautiful wife and baby daughter completing his family, popular motivational speaker David King Thorairajan is a model of achievement. He is also part of an advisory panel for SINDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth outreach programmes. However, the road to success was a dark and rocky one. 35-year-old David shares what spurs his work with youth and families.

You are a successful life coach, entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker. How did you come about setting up your company, the Ministry of Empowerment (MOE)?

I made some bad decisions in my younger days—I believe it was due to a lack of guidance then. That’s why I’ve set out to make a difference in the lives of youths at that vulnerable age. MOE, as well as my three other new companies, Kenzen (study strategy school), Transform My World (speakers platform for underdogs) and The Village (mobile app for parents) are primarily for coaching and mentoring youths, parents… people from all walks of life. It is my dream to guide every child towards a better path.

Tell us about those harmful decisions. What were your growing-up years like? My family was poor, and growing up, I had a difficult relationship with my father. My mother was often tied down with work commitments and was too tired to spend time with my brother and me. I had a lot of suppressed anger, and was also insecure from being bullied at school. At age 15, I ended up mixing with bad company, moving from gang to gang and making many enemies along the way. I joined nine gangs in three years! We were always fighting. My life was characterised by fear. If I didn’t beat someone up, I would get beaten up. My “favourite year” was Secondary 3—I failed it three times before dropping out of school. I was only fit for odd jobs, and sometimes felt embarrassed about it. I had run-ins with the law over my gang activities, and my parents had to sell our flat to bail me out.

“Parents need to humble themselves and believe that their children are intelligent. They should not think that youth’s contributions are invalid or superficial.”

In 2000, my friends and I were ambushed by a rival gang armed with choppers. I escaped, but my best friend was slashed to death. Having to witness that at the age of 19 was a very big shock to me. I cried with rage continuously for three days. All I could think of was revenge. Not long after, I was jailed 18 months for a different offence. When I was released, my gang and I went on a revenge attack. For that, I received another six years of jail and 18 strokes of the cane. My mum was so broken by what I’d done. In total, I wasted eight years of my life in prison.

How did your time in prison impact you? Getting caned was a life-changing experience. Besides that, being in jail made me think about the long term. Although I was happy to be able to work in jail, I decided to study again. I had a burning desire to excel in my studies. I went on to make that my dream. I passed my N, O, and A Levels with flying colours—Top Student for the O’s and top three at the A’s. My results were good enough to get me into any university, anywhere. SMU offered me a scholarship after arranging for an interview session at the prison. Three years after my release, I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, with a double major in Psychology and Human Resources. I won several awards as well and even met the Prime Minister. I also reconciled with my father, who has since passed away.

Since prison, I have been determined to live every minute of my life purposefully.

What do you see as problems faced by youths in today’s society, and how can they handle these? Youths today lack attention, affirmation, appropriate expertmentors, confidence, resilience, self-awareness, and proper beliefs and values. Youths can’t handle these issues on their own. This is where school, family and friends need to step in and introduce external organisations which can channel them in the right direction. There may be many avenues out there, but youths are sceptical about them. They would rather go to a friend for help. It is important that the people behind helping organisations be forthcoming to provide the assistance these children require.

How about parents, how can they overcome difficulties in communicating with their children? Parents need to humble themselves and believe that their children are intelligent. They should not think that youth’s contributions are invalid or superficial. When parents have meaningful discussions with their children, they will notice their children opening up more.

Please share with us how your work inspires you. The youths I work with all affect me. Every time they share something positive, or when they make the right choices; when they help someone or work hard to succeed; when they choose to listen; when they say thank you—that inspires me.

How would you sum up your secrets to success? Passion, hard work and supportive people. Believe in these three.

Around the World in an Afternoon Going back to school in the middle of the holidays had never been this fun! Twenty-six pre-schoolers found this out on 3 December, when they embarked on “A Trip Around the World” at Whitelodge Kindergarten. Whitelodge recreated their popular United Nations theme, bringing these little ones on a whirlwind tour of the globe. Whether it was Italian pizza-making or an introduction to Asia through its costumes, there was non-stop action! The kids also had a blast making music from Africa and jewellery from the Americas. With their imagination and enthusiasm for learning more about the world all fired up, it was a fabulous experience for the children. Participant Mishika said it for everybody when she exclaimed, “I really enjoyed myself!”

Not Just Kicking Around While most of their peers may have chosen to take things easy after the PSLE exams ended, a bunch from last year’s Primary 6 cohort were back on drills—football drills, that is. Over four days from 19–22 October, SINDA engaged 33 boys in a soccer clinic at Spectra Secondary School. They learnt more about the skills and rules of the sport while cultivating not just healthy lifestyles, but also discipline and teamwork. The final day saw the boys in new jerseys showing off some dexterous footwork in friendly matches. SINDA’s EXCO Member Mr VP Jothi was in the stands supporting the teams, together with Spectra Secondary School’s Vice-Principal Mr Lau. Parent Mohd Azar lauded the workshop, saying, “The location, soccer grounds, equipment and facilities, coaches and personal supervision were all professional. We loved it!” He added, “My son, Abdul Razzaq, totally enjoyed himself and had a great time.” More than just good memories, a certificate and a medal, these students took away a great lesson—the camp’s mantra: “You can’t score a goal if you don’t take the shot!”

A SPIN on Sports PYD Programmes’ Award Winners “You cannot win a football game with 11 strikers,” says 20-year-old ITE student Raja Rishi. “We each have our own skills and talents, and we must work hard at them.” Those who knew him when he was first introduced to SINDA as a Secondary 1 student, timid and unsure of himself, may be amazed at the confident leader he has grown into today. The SINDA Peer Leader Award winner was also crowned Valedictorian at the Positive Youth Development (PYD) Awards Night on 21 November last year. Rishi attributes his success to the many SINDA Youth Division programmes he has attended. From the Guidance and Mentorship Programme (GAME), Camp Arise and Peer Leadership Programme, to Holiday Engagement Programmes and SINDA Lions, they all taught valuable life lessons, not least “how to balance school work and play,” he says. The youth programmes are centred on equipping students with self-confidence and leadership traits, allowing them to emerge as young adults with admirable qualities. In 2015, seven key motivational programmes organised by SINDA empowered over 600 teens like Rishi. At the awards night, 92 of these youths were recognised for the progress they have shown. Guest of Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, President, SINDA, encouraged the students to excel and “dream big”. “These award recipients are role models to every Indian youth in the community and are testament to what can be achieved when you work hard and are positive,” she affirmed. For these youths, the endorsement and encouragement received at the ceremony have given them motivation and drive to scale greater heights.

“I had not been part of any team sports due to school and work obligations,” confesses 22-yearold Rupini Priagasam. When she made the threemonth commitment to SPIN’s Challenge 90, she felt hesitant. Looking back, she now describes the experience as “great and amazing”. She testifies, “I’ve become a stronger person mentally and physically!” SPIN is SINDA’s nascent health-focused programme that reaches out to 17- to 35-year-olds. Its 90day fitness challenge was designed to give them something more than the usual sports introduction programmes, and help participants reach their personal fitness goals. It also gives insights on disease prevention and nutritional advice. SPIN also comprises a sports programme that lures our youth out of their comfort zone to try unique, exciting and rigorous team sports. SPIN offers customised training as well with the help of a professional physical trainer who will coach participants twice a week. Final year NTU undergraduate Raveendran Aswini, 23, calls signing up for the programme “one of the best decisions I’ve made”. She explains that she used to exercise regularly before, but SPIN has led to more efficient ways of training, and dietary changes for the better, too. Aswini still feels incredulous that within a short period of 12 weeks, the group got their fitness levels high enough to complete a 10km run. “Truly remarkable,” she enthuses. As for NIE student Roshini, 21, the only thing she anticipated was keeping fit. She joined at the behest of a friend, and it didn’t help her motivation that she had to travel all the way from Jurong West to Serangoon, early in the morning. Now though, Roshini is a strong SPIN advocate. “The lessons I’ve learnt, the experience I’ve gained and the bonds I’ve made were all more than I ever expected!” She attests, “Today I feel so good about myself and I feel that I can achieve many things in life. “I strongly believe that all Indian youth should join SPIN. It will really help your lifestyle and your attitude towards daily living. It’s made me a very positive person today!”

Dad and Mum Get Ready for Primary School! It might raise smiles, but no-one would be surprised if starting Primary 1 makes more parents anxious than their six-year-olds. To ease the transition for both, SINDA organised its annual P1 Starters seminar for parents, on 5 December last year. Speaking at the event at the Umar Pulavar Tamil Language Centre, SINDA COO Mr N Ravindran noted, “We need to understand the changes in the modern landscape—changes that will impact our children—so that we can equip ourselves better to be their companions and guides.” On hand to prepare parents for this role were several subject specialists from the Ministry of Education. They offered useful insights into current educational developments and discussed issues such as the social and emotional well-being of the children. There was even nutritional advice dispensed. Said Mr Ravindran, “This is a platform for us parents to come together, hear about current trends, share our concerns as parents, learn from one another’s experiences and build winning strategies.” Participant Mrs Agila was one parent who got some relief. “I learnt how to plan things out for my daughter so that she will adjust to the changes, instead of passing on my stress to her unnecessarily,” she laughed. Dr Janil Puthucheary, MP for Pasir Ris Punggol GRC, graced the occasion. He encouraged parents to take advantage of MOE’s and SINDA’s many initiatives to help their children, and urged them to embrace the “exciting possibilities and infinite potential”.

No need to fret if you missed the seminar—here are some tips from that day: • All schools offer a strong curriculum and co-curricular engagement. You can be rest assured of your child’s holistic development, regardless which school your child is enrolled in! • For English and Mathematics, teaching is based on real life scenarios. For example, students learn about money sense and reading sign boards. • It is important that you teach your children the value of learning both English and their Mother Tongue. • Allow teachers to be in control. It is important that your child respects his/her teacher, so be a good example! • Besides the three main meals, it’s good to allow children to have healthy snacks in the mid-morning and evening. • Encourage help-seeking behaviour—it will buffer your child’s stress. Let him/her know that it’s fine to ask for help if they need it.

Tutors Begin the New Year with Fresh Directions 2015 was a landmark year for STEP and Project TEACH, with many significant new initiatives rolled out for our students. Last year, these flagship tuition programmes impacted about 5,100 pupils—a feat made possible through the collaborative efforts and commitment of all personnel involved. Moving forward into 2016, we have planned even more schemes to guide our students towards better academic outcomes. It was therefore timely that SINDA’s education programme personnel came together on 9 January at Serangoon Junior College for the Tutor Forum 2016. Attracting 284 participants, the forum included not just tutors but also Centre Principals and Administrators and Pupil Management Officers. The core purpose of the event was to orientate everyone with the strategic initiatives and directions for the year. The morning was “well-spent and informative”, as one attendee described it, and all enjoyed the chance to catch up with each other in the spirit of the new year.

Appreciating Tutors Thank goodness for the dedicated tutors in SINDA’s tuition programmes! Each year about 5,100 students come through STEP and Project Teach, and that they are reaping the fruit of these tutorials is showing at landmark examinations. SINDA values the efforts of all those involved, and in gratitude, hosts a tutor appreciation night annually. What was different at last year’s event on 30 October, was that for the first time, both STEP and Teach staff came together to jointly celebrate the contributions of our tutors. That evening, 241 tutors were feted at the Serangoon Gardens Country Club for their outstanding performance in their respective roles. It was a warm ceremony which saw participants receiving their 3-, 5-, 10- & 15-Year Long Service Awards, as well as the popular Best Tutor Awards. Calling them “champions on the ground”, SINDA CEO Mr K Barathan noted the impact of their efforts. He also thanked them for being forthcoming with their feedback, and assured tutors that their ideas have been taken into account in strategising future improvements. Also speaking at the event, SINDA President Ms Indranee Rajah highlighted the need to evolve into mentors, besides being tutors. Ms Indranee articulated the grateful thoughts of many SINDA families when she hailed the tutors, “You have made a positive difference in an individual’s life.”

Rainbow50 SG50 will have a lasting impact on 50 less-privileged Indian families, thanks to some 100 youth volunteers mobilised for SINDA’s Rainbow50 project. Last July, in time for our nation’s big birthday celebration, SINDA’s youth came together to inject colour and life into 50 homes island-wide, through a home rejuvenation project. Their aim was to create conducive living and study environments for these families. The project kicked off with volunteers having light-hearted interaction sessions with the beneficiaries, to understand their needs better. This initiative has not only provided our youngsters an opportunity to serve the community, but also to experience the importance of team work in achieving a common goal. They feel blessed to have been part of a meaningful project. To mark the end of the project, a ‘makan’ session was arranged for both the beneficiaries and the volunteers where touching testimonies were shared. We hope that, one day, the children from these families will be giving back to society, too!

Thanking the Community You would have seen SINDA’s Project Give booths at the Deepavali Festive Village at Hastings Road and the Deepavali Mall at Birch Road during the festive season last year. SINDA’s presence was aimed at increasing the community’s awareness about SINDA’s programmes and services and raise funds to meet the educational and financial needs of students from lowincome families. Project Give 2015 marked the 15th year of the annual campaign which has now become synonymous with SINDA. This is how the Indian community remembers the less fortunate amongst us in the midst of the festive buzz surrounding Deepavali. SINDA has been humbled by the strong show of support from Indian community organisations and individuals alike for Project Give over the years. 2015 was no different and SINDA would like to thank all sponsors and donors for their generosity. All donors received letters of appreciation and a simple acknowledgement ceremony was held on 7 Nov 2015, at the Indian Heritage Centre, for individuals and organisations who donated $5,000 or more. The ceremony also acknowledged sponsors such as LISHA, Aim Connections and the National Heritage Board, for providing free booth space at the Deepavali Festival Village, Deepavali Mall and Indian Heritage Centre. The Banana Leaf Apolo Restaurant was also recognised for sponsoring refreshments for Indian community organisations, grassroots leaders and advisers who visited the Hastings Road booth, in addition to sponsoring food for the postacknowledgement ceremony lunch. At the ceremony, Guest of Honour Ms Indranee Rajah, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Law, and SINDA President, called for Indian community groups to rally together and increase their support for students and families. Ms Indranee noted that community partners have great expertise, experience and resources across various sectors. She also emphasised that while monetary contributions are vital, other forms of intangible support, such as volunteering time and expertise, and mentoring students, affirm the community’s vision for progress. In her words, “Uplifting the community in terms of educational performance should be a collective goal of the community.” Let us bear this in mind as we go into 2016 together.

Pic-O-Mania Let’s see how good you are at this guessing game! Below are some images that have been magnified. Try and figure out what they could be! Simply submit your answers, together with your particulars, to SINDA Connections Contest c/o SINDA Family Division, No 1 Beatty Road, Singapore 209943. Your entries have to reach SINDA by 25 April 2016. This contest is only open to primary school students, who are Singaporeans or Permanent Residents. Three correct entries will win a $50 voucher each. The winning correct entries will be picked in a draw and the judges’ decision is final. Winners will be contacted by SINDA to collect their prizes and the winners’ names will be published in the next issue of SINDA Connections.

Name:

BC No:

School:

School Level:

Contact No:

Address:

Guess the following images and circle just one option:

a) Cell Tissue

a) Sugar Cane

a) Human Tongue

a) Human Eye

a) Apple Peel

b) Bone Tissue

b) Chocolate Bar

b) Mosquito Tongue

b) Fish Eye

b) Pear Peel

c) Bee Hive

c) Hair Follicle

c) Cat Tongue

c) Dog Eye

c) Banana Peel

d) Strawberry Seeds

d) Vegetable

d) Dog Tongue

d) Lion Eye

d) Strawberry Peel

Congratulations to the winners of the previous contest! Sachidaren S/O Sivaprakash, Primary 4 Xinmin Primary School

Shivani Nageswari, Primary 5 Yangzheng Primary School

Ram Kumar, Primary 5 Blangah Rise Primary School

ABOUT US VISION

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

To build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together

Patron Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

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

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

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Term Trustees Mr Inderjit Singh Ms Indranee Rajah Mr M Rajaram Mr V Shankar Mr Ravi Menon Mr R Jayachandran Mr Girija Pande Mr Gautam Banerjee Mr Ravinder Singh Justice Judith Prakash Mr K Kesavapany Advisors Dr Vivian Balakrishnan Mr S Iswaran Mr Hri Kumar Nair Mr Vikram Nair

President Ms Indranee Rajah Vice Presidents Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai Secretary Mr Sarjit Singh Treasurer Mr Shekaran Krishnan Members Mr V P Jothi Mr R Rajaram Mr Puvan Ariaratnam Mr R Subramaniam Iyer Dr Joshua V M Kuma Mr K V Rao Mr Raja Mohamad Maiden Mr R Chandra Mohan Mr K Ramamoorthy Mr Sarbjit Singh