25 August 2001

SPEECH BY RADM (NS) TEO CHEE HEAN, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND 2ND MINISTER FOR DEFENCE AT NTU'S CONVOCATION BALL "ASPIRE" ON SAT 25 AUG 2001 AT SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE GRAND BALLROOM LEVEL 2 @ 7.30 PM

Dr Cham Tao Soon, President, Nanyang Technological University

Graduands

Ladies & Gentlemen

1 It is my pleasure to be with you at this Convocation Ball. I offer my heartiest congratulations to all the graduating students of NTU. This event is a celebration of your achievements as undergraduates. I am sure that your stint in NTU has been a fruitful and enriching experience. One that you will build on as you embark on your careers.

2 I am heartened by the theme you have chosen for this Ball. 'Aspire' is a reflection of your spirit and drive as you seek to realise your personal dreams and ambitions. As you venture out to the world of work, I urge you to seize every opportunity to gain practical, working experience which will stand you in good stead when the right opportunities come along. It is good to ask yourself what contribution you can make to the organisation that you will join and work towards achieving the larger good - for the organisation and the community. You will then leave your mark and will have helped improve not only your own life but also the life of others you come into contact with.

3 Hence, I hope that you will reach out to those in the community who may not have enjoyed the same opportunities that you have. This will help to ensure social cohesion and progress in our society, as we pull together and help each other along.

4 As you forge new relationships, treasure the ones you have made at NTU. You share a unique relationship with your friends and mentors. Your shared experiences are an important source of strength and comfort as you traverse the ever-changing vast arena of work and new opportunities.

5 I would like to congratulate the convocation ball committee for a job well done. I am sure you will look back on tonight and your university years with fond memories. I wish all of you success in your chosen paths and may you find fulfilment and happiness in whatever you embark on. Thank you.