The SIET-NUSTLS Tuition programme is a commendable effort that attempts to fill a gap where provision of support in education to Indians is concerned, in particular, at the pre-university stage. It certainly will ensure that the pool of Indians proceeding to tertiary institutions is widened, which in doing so will enhance the economic capacity and capability of the Indian community, and within the wider milieu, our contribution towards Singapore’s well being. Through this paper, I propose that we capitalize on this institutional relationship towards the realization of “moral contribution” by SIET beneficiaries, which in doing so, will also expand the ambit of SIET-NUSTLS.

Shoeb Burhanuddin
National University of Singapore
Bachelor of Social Science (First Class Honours)

We should build on this successful relationship to address another ailment amongst the next generation. It is often observed that this group lacks the fire, passion and drive having been comforted by the material success and comfort of their upbringing. This relationship should also expand its focus towards what Learning Organisations proponents call “Relations Building” wherein networking, bonding, integration and the like can be achieved such that the Indian community becomes a true cohesive group.

Here, the SIET beneficiaries, and through them, the Indian community at large, can be galvanized towards inspiring, encouraging and supporting our youths in the Junior Colleges or in the Polytechnics. Being of the same generation as the youths, generation issues, images and stereotypes are minimized if not avoided. Additionally, first hand accounts and experiences will be available from the beneficiaries, which can be communicated within the same generational language.
In terms of specifics, the SIET beneficiaries, particularly those who have undertaken or are undertaking tertiary and post-tertiary studies can become mentors to these youths. The mentoring beneficiaries can also share their experience in the university and the working world through tea sessions where these youths could mingle and mix with the beneficiaries. Another possibility could involve the youths shadowing the beneficiaries, in particular those who are still in the university to gain a glimpse of university life. This, if possible, could also be extended to those who are employed. We could also capitalize on technology noting the affinity of the youths to certain technological features. A virtual community portal can also be set up where this portal can be the medium for some of the suggestions above, and to establish a esprit-de-corp amongst them. This portal may even provide them with inspiration from the efforts amongst them. These suggestions are just a few, and I am certain the spirit of brainstorming can perhaps avail more if not better suggestions.

The premise upon which the paper is proposed is best summed by the words of John Donne: “No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main”. All of us have a role to play in this community of which we are a part where the success and failure of the community is our success and failure.