Speech by Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence RAdm Teo Chee Hean at the Fund-raising Dinner organised by the Nanyang School Management Committee (25 May 2001)

ADDRESS BY RADM TEO CHEE HEAN, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND 2ND MINISTER FOR DEFENCE, AT THE MUSICAL NITE, A FUND-RAISING DINNER ORGANISED BY THE NANYANG SCHOOL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE ON FRI 25 MAY 2001 @ 7.45 PM AT THE DUNEARN BALLROOM, RAFFLES TOWN CLUB

I am very pleased to be with you at this fund-raising dinner for the Nanyang Primary School building fund.

2 This year, Nanyang Primary will begin the re-development of its old school buildings under PRIME, the Programme for Rebuilding and IMproving Existing Schools. This is a major programme undertaken by the Ministry since 1999 to redevelop old school buildings and premises to meet the latest standards, so that all schools can have a conducive physical environment for teaching and learning. Nanyang Primary's participation in PRIME comes after many years of planning and discussions with the Ministry of Education, and is a reflection of the long-term view that the school takes in providing for the education of its pupils.

3 Nanyang Primary has a long history that goes back to 1917. It began as the Primary Section of Nanyang Girls' School, housed in a rented shophouse at Dhoby Ghaut. In 1978, the Primary Section was separated from Nanyang Girls' High School and officially named Nanyang Primary School. The school's founding fathers were inspired by a vision and belief in the importance of educating the young to become good citizens and serve the community.

4 Today, that vision remains as strong as ever and is embraced by all who are associated with the school. Nanyang Primary takes pride in nurturing and developing its students in all areas, so that they may grow into well-rounded individuals equipped with a keen understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture and values. Yet the school is also mindful of the need for its students to interact with the other races in Singapore's multi-racial environment, where an understanding of the various ethnic communities is crucial for societal harmony.

5 In keeping with its mission to produce well-rounded individuals, I understand that Nanyang Primary has a range of interesting facilities lined up for its pupils under the PRIME programme. The Home Economics Room, Dance Studio and Public Speaking Corner will serve to impart life skills, with pupils learning to prepare simple yet balanced meals, acquire social skills like table etiquette and social dancing, as well as confidence in public speaking, among others. The planned Continuous Learning Centre aims to provide on-going training for pupils, staff and parents - an important concern in today's climate, where continuous learning is a must in order to constantly refresh one's skills. Providing an anchor to the past, the Archive Room will serve to remind pupils of the rich heritage and contributions of our pioneers, as well as help foster closer links with alumni members. The CCA block will house the new gymnasium as well as space for table tennis and mini tennis. These extensive facilities will aid Nanyang Primary in its aim to provide an environment that will allow staff and students to continue their pursuit of excellence that goes beyond just the academic.

6 The school's sound academic record is matched by its achievements in co-curricular activities, with the pupils having won many awards, including international ones. The school's swimming programme, choir, Chinese Orchestra and Chinese dance troupe are just some of the co-curricular activities it is increasingly known for.

7 Nanyang Primary's reputation is due to the hard work, dedication and whole-hearted support of the School Management Committee, staff and pupils, as well as parents and alumni. The School Management Committee, which is organising tonight's fund-raising dinner, has put its heart and soul into ensuring that the Musical Nite is a resounding success. I look forward very much to hearing tonight's guest artistes and performers from the school, who I am told have worked very hard to prepare for tonight's performance.

8 In closing, I would like to thank all of you for your whole-hearted support of Nanyang Primary School's redevelopment plans. I also wish to commend the School Management Committee for its dedication and unswerving support, and to wish it every success with its fund-raising efforts.