FEBRUARY 2012 MICA (P) 123⁄08⁄2011 SINDA 2020: A New Momentum – Surging forward as a community (P06)
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FEBRUARY2012
MICA (P) 123 ⁄ 08 ⁄ 2011
SINDA 2020: A New Momentum – Surging forward as a community (P06)
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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
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Look out for exciting updates onLine!
neVeR FAR FROM YOU
STUDENTS
STUDENTS
STUDENTS
STUDENTS
YOUTH
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER
FAMILY
SINDA
SINDA
SINDA
ContentsCEO’s Message (P01)
A Community's Blessing (P02)
STEP Tuition 2012 (P03)
Confidence through Drama (P04)
Holiday Enrichment Programmes (P05)
SINDA 2020: A New Momentum Unveiled (P06)
A Toast to the Future (P10)
Mountaineer Inspires Youth (P12)
Dr Balaji Sadasivan Remembered (P13)
Riders Aid Rides Again (P14)
Celebrate! Sharing Festive Cheer (P15)
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CEO’S MESSAGEA 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 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:
• Encouraginggreaterparticipationinpre-schooleducation
from nursery level
• FocusingonMathematicsperformanceatalllevels
• ExpandingthenumberofstudentsattendingSINDA’s
educational programmes
• Engagingtheyouthsinrelevantactivities
• Buildingfamilyresilience
• Strengtheningcommunitypartnership
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.Approximately3,500Indianstudentsareineach
cohort. That would mean that slightly over 800 students fail PSLE
Mathematics in each cohort.
This is a huge number. Have you imagined what happens to these
students? They will probably continue their educational journey in
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
will lead to lesser than desired career pathways and earnings.
Thecycleoffamilyunder-performancewillrepeatitselfinthenext
generation. We need to break that cycle. Thus, we will start with
primary school educational performance, especially with the PSLE.
Many feel that there is no issue, or nothing too serious happening
now. However, statistics point to a very serious future scenario if
nothing is done. Nobody wants to be part of the underclass of the
future.Theleastwecandonowistoensurethatthenextgeneration
is more successful than the present one. In Singapore, the best way
to a brighter future is through better education. That we all know.
So, what is holding us back? That is the golden question.
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
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 SegarCEO
1
A community’s Blessing
deseRVinG 12
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 Back-
to-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
excellenceandnevergiveup.“Today,
I understand the true meaning of
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
pursuitofexcellenceinareassuchasacademics,
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),
feelsthatthestudyawardwillprovehelpfulinhisstudies:“Themoneygoesalongway
insupportingmydailyexpensesandstudyneeds.Myacademicperformanceandmy
co-curricular activities will definitely benefit,” said Ashwin.
ProjectGive,”shetoldthecrowd.“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
“whatyousowtodaywillresultinplentiful
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,
excitingcarnivalgamesandfreebooksfrom
the National Library Board, which made the
day truly memorable.
ST
UD
EN
TS
2
PRIMARY
Level Subjects Fees (Cash / GIRO)(Fees based on relief package for Jan to Jun 2012 only)
Curriculum Fees (One-time payment)
Primary 1 & 2 English / Maths* $5 per subject per month $5 per subject
Primary 3-6 (Including P5 & P6 Foundation) English / Maths* / Science
SECONDARY
Secondary 1 - 2 (EXP & NA) Maths* / General Science
$10 per subject per month $5 per subjectSecondary 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)
criteriaIndian Singaporeans and Permanent Residents
duration of cLasses18 Jan 2012 till 25 Oct 2012
• SmallClassSize
• QualifiedandExperiencedTutors
• HolidayProgrammes – (Enrichment/Academic/Motivational)
• AdditionalSubjects – (subject to minimum number at Centre)
• FlexibleChoiceofSubjects
• SINDATestsConductedRegularly
• CurriculumMaterials
• E-learning
• Refreshments
• Tshirts
steP tUitiOn 2012
STEP FEES
For more details, call 1800- 295- 4554 or visit www.sinda.org.sg/students/step
Documents Required:•Pupil'sNRIC/BirthCertificate/StudentPass•Parent/Guardian'sbankdetailsfor GIRO deductions•2011Final-YearExaminationResultsSlip
Primary, Secondary 1 & 2 only
Primary only
Mon, Tue & Fri
Mon, Tue & Thurs
Mon, Wed & Thurs
Tues, Thurs & Fri
STEP CENTRES
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)
north
Bowen Secondary School
2 Lorong Napiri S (547529)
First Toa Payoh Primary School
7 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh S (319252)
Marsiling Primary School
31 Woodlands Centre Rd S (738927)
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)
central
Henderson Secondary School
100 Henderson Rd S (159544)
Global Indian International School, Balestier Campus
51 Jalan Rajah,Balestier Road S (329154)
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)
ST
UD
EN
TS
3
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 timeontheschoolpremises.Theprogrammecanbecustomizedaccording to the school’s needs. Project Teach offers:
• English,Mathsand/orSciencefromJanuarytoOctober• MathsonlyfromJanuarytoOctoberOR• a12-weekintensiveMathsexampreparatoryprogramme
Other features of Project Teach include:• Smallclasssizes(4-8students)• Qualifiedandexperiencedtutors• Curriculummaterials• Regulartestsandassessments• Holidayclasses/enrichmentactivities/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.
project teach: calling all teachers!
A DRAMA WORkSHOP conducted by SINDA and ACT 3
Drama Academy on 10 September 2011 gave 21 Primary 4
studentsenhancedconfidenceinexpressingthemselvesclearly.
Themed“MirrorMe,MirrorYou”,theworkshopimparted
drama skills in a fun way. Children warmed up to the idea
ofsocialinteractionbyexploringverbalandnon-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.
157 PRIMARY 4 AND 5 STUDENTS jumped enthusiastically into SINDA’s Project
Leapon12November2011.Theexperientialworkshopbroughtthemtovarious
stationsaroundRepublicPolytechnicinanexcitingprogrammeencompassing
self-understanding, time management and public speaking, among others.
The youngsters ended the morning motivated to do more for themselves and
tosetpersonalgoals,armedwiththeskillstomaximisetheirpotential.Thisisone
batch of students that will surely face life with confidence!
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
wereresult-oriented:“Hekepttestingourknowledgeofconceptsby
changing the numbers here and there in problem sums. It was very helpful
because it made me more prepared for my PSLE paper.”
confidence through drama
leap
Maths
4
into life
figuring out
Night at the Museum
United We PlayS
TU
DE
NT
S
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
overnightcamp,anditprovedanexcitingandenjoyable
experience.“IreallylikedtheTinTinexhibition,”
nine-year-old Shankari d/o Muniandy enthused. Added
MdDanielHakeemBinMaznizam,10,“Theprogramme
built my knowledge of stamps, and the facilitators were
reallyfun!”Entertainedbytreasurehuntswithprizes,
a magic show, a shadow show and a movie, the kids
also went home with goodie bags full of treats from
the museum.
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
developmentandultimatelymotivatethemtoexcelinschool.
hOlidAY enRichMent PROGRAMMes
5
JUST THE MENTION OF
FORMULA 1 is enough to set
most hearts racing, but to actually
build and race a car in an F1-
sanctioned 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.
TheexcitingF1ExperienceWorkshop
provided the students with a new
appreciation for Science, Mathematics,
Engineering and Technology as they were
guided to build their own race cars. The
finaldaydeliveredanexhilaratingclimax–
RaceDay!Withnumerousprizesforspeed
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
receiveanexclusiveopportunitytoparticipateintheannual
F1 Technology Challenge in Singapore.
Vroom!
6
sindA 2020: A new MOMentUM UnVeiledA 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
basis for the strategic thrusts devised to bring
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.
6
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
A copy of the Review Report can be found on the SINDA website.
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 Increasedcommunityreach.Excitinginteractiveprogrammesandcollaborationsareinstoretoincreaseour 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.
SIN
DA
20
20
7
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 face-
to-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!
A B C
initiative 2: enhancing the focus on MathematicsLook forward to enhanced STEP and Project
Teach programmes, with more interactive learning customised for different competency levels. New and innovativeformatssuchas“MathWeekends”and“MathWorkshops”willkeepthingsfun,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.
1538++
8
initiative 3: expanding sinda’s tuition reach
Newinteractiveprogrammesandexcitingcollaborationsare 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, anincreasedenrolmentisexpectedwhentheprogrammeisreplicated
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 myriadofexcitingactivitieslinedup,likecampsandsports,toengageand 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.
SIN
DA
20
20
9
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 existingoneswillbeSINDA’sapproachtomaximizeits
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.
“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
attheRitz-Carlton,MilleniaSingapore,hadexcellingartistes
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
commendedSINDA’s“contributionsandeffortstowardenhancing
the development of the Indian community in Singapore.”
10
A tOAst tO the FUtURe
SIN
DA
DIN
NE
R
11
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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!
Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Chairman
ofSINDA’sBoardofTrusteesannouncedthat“wehavereduced
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
encouragingnewercitizenstointegratefully.Hesaid,“Weneed
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.
YO
UT
H
ARe YOU ReAdY to Be the change?
pinnacle of inspiration
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
andpartoftheyouth-driveninitiativecalled“BetheChange!”
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
ideasfocusedonexpandingthesocialentrepreneurshipscenein
Singapore, which sees more profit-generating businesses set up
compared to non-profit ventures.
“IntheWest,manybusinessesaremovingtowardssocial
entrepreneurship,”Hareshexplained.“Ibelievethereismuch
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.”
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
mountainclimbingexpeditions
to Mount Kilimanjaro and other
mountains in Nepal, China
and India.
It was a learning journey for
the 35 youths present as they
12
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.
ThisseriesorganisedbySINDAexposesyouthstoinspirational
role-modelswhohaveachievedall-roundedexcellenceinboth
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.
“Itwascertainlyanenlighteningandinspiringsession.Youdon’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.
ThesessionconcludedwithDrKumaranannouncinghisnext
challenge of conquering Mount Everest in 2012. He also aims to raise
funds for Tan Tock Seng Hospital’s Community Charity Fund through
hismountainclimbingexpeditions.
FAM
ILY
dR BAlAji sAdAsiVAn ReMeMBeRed with scholarship Award
raise a reader
fishing fun
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
MinisterLeeHsienLoongpaidtributetoDrBalaji’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
toSINDA,sothattheirexpertiseinsocialworkcanhelpfulfil
SINDA’s mission to uplift the Indian community.
Mr Viswa Sadasivan, Vice-President of SINDA, also voiced that
thescholarship“mayevolveintosomethinglarger,andperhaps
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.
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
upforSINDA’s“RaiseaReader”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
“longkangfish”with
nets, and were happy
to bring home their
prizedcatches.
13
riders aid rides again
CONTINUING THE INDIAN bUSINESS-
LEADERS’ 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 Guest-
of-Honour Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for
Foreign Affairs and Law. The IBR engages
successful Indian business people and allows
forthesharingoftheirexpertise.
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
anindicationthattheIndiandiaspora“hasa
social conscience about issues affecting the
Indian community in Singapore”.
iBR diAlOGUe seRies:
diAlOGUe with MinisteR k shAnMUGAM
Mr Shanmugam also referred to IBR’s
involvement,saying“it’snotjustabout
money, it is also about time.” In particular,
he urged members to take the time to talk
to and motivate the students SINDA helps.
“Manyofthemhavegreatpotentialbutthey
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
Singaporeansareableto“liveadecent
and meaningful life”.
14
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
DirectoratSINDA,commented,“when
people from all walks of life come together,
provide resources and help in whatever way
they can, we are deeply encouraged.
“SuchinitiativesfromRidersAidand
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.”
VO
LUN
TE
ER
SEPTEMbER 3 2011 MARkED DEUTSCHE
POST DHL’S “GLObAL VOLUNTEER DAY”.
A total of 120 volunteers championed
SINDA’smissionto“enlightenthe
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,
thechildrentookonthe“GalleryHunt”
adventure.Thekidsenjoyedexploringand
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,saidthatthe“GlobalVolunteer
Day” enabled employees of the company
to respond to the needs of the community.
He said, "nearly half a million people work
15
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."
dHl champions Sinda’s cause
celebrate! Sharing Festive cheerCHRISTMAS CAME EARLY for 40 needy families at SINDA. Kicking off
the Christmas season on 26 November 2011, Mr Viswa Sadasivan,
Vice-PresidentoftheSINDAExecutiveCommitteedistributedgiftpacksto
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
fellowman.“Eachandeveryoneofushasaroleinsociety”,saidMrShamAlexandra,a
SINDAvolunteer.“Itcutsacrossracesandreligions,andallofusarereallyheretoassist;
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!
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
congratulations to our eXcO's MR k.V. RAO for being the iiFt alumnus of the year!
VisionTo build a strong and vibrant Singaporean Indian community together
MissionTo 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
VaLuesRespect, our cultureIntegrity, our foundationService, our promiseExcellence,ourpursuit
Board of trustees
patron Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
chairman, Board of trustees Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam
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
executiVe coMMittee
president Ms Indranee Rajah
Vice presidents Mr Viswa Sadasivan Mr Shabbir Hassanbhai, PBM
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
About SINDA
16
Abiraame Jewellers
Allen & Gledhill LLP
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
BinjaiTree
Chew How Teck Foundation
Cleen First Services Pte Ltd
Credit Suisse AG, Singapore Branch
DBS Bank Limited
Emerio Globesoft Pte Ltd
GOPIO (Singapore)
Hindu Centre
Hindu Endowments Board
Indian Restaurant Association of Singapore
Intra Business Pte Ltd
Jay Gee Enterprises (Pte) Ltd
Josco Travel & Trading Pte Ltd
KNP Trading Pte Ltd
Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association
Manbeni Corporate Consultancy Pte Ltd
Mastercard Asia / Pacific Pte Ltd
MGI N Rajan Associates
CORPORATE DONATIONS INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS
We would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous contributions towards SINDA's cause:
Mini Environment Services Pte Ltd
Optimum Solutions (S) Pte Ltd
People's Association Indian Activity ExecutiveCommitteesCouncil
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Sana Hindu Aftercare (Counselling) Svc
Singapore Indian Education Trust
SingaporeThamizharEyakkam
Sri Arasakesari Sivan Temple
Sri Arulmigu Murugan Temple
Sri Krishnan Temple
Sri Manmatha Karuneshvarar Temple
Standard Chartered Bank
State Bank Of India
Straits Law Practice LLC
Tamil Language & Cultural Society
Tamil Murasu Ltd
Tamil Representative Council
Tolaram Corporation Pte Ltd
Total Oil Asia-Pacific Pte Ltd
UBS AG Singapore Branch
Yahya Abdulhussain Lukmanji Saif Charity Trust
YO
UR
VO
ICE
17
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back Cover
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Mr Chelva Retnam Rajah
Mr Christopher Anand s/o Daniel
Mr Chua Nguen Chuar
Mr Harry Susilo
MrKaikhushruShiavaxNargolwala
Mr Lakshmanan s/o Seenivasakan
Mr Manokaran Chakrapani
Mr N Subramaniam
Mr Nagarajan Senthil Kumar
Mr Saha Ranjit Chandra
Mr Subramaniam Sankar
Mr Sundaram Arun Kumar
Mr Sunny G Verghese
Ms Sunu Sivadasan
Mr Sutharshan Kandiah
Mr Thirumalai Chandran
Mr Venkatesh Narayanaswamy
Mr Yin Kok Kong
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