SPEECH BY MR CHAN SOO SEN, MINISTER OF STATE, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, AT THE 13th BIENNIAL ASIAN REGIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME ECONOMICS (ARAHE) INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS 2005 ON WEDNESDAY, 3 AUGUST 2005, AT 9.30 AM, AT THE ORCHARD HOTEL

SPEECH BY MR CHAN SOO SEN, MINISTER OF STATE, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, AT THE 13^th BIENNIAL ASIAN REGIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME ECONOMICS (ARAHE) INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS 2005 ON WEDNESDAY, 3 AUGUST 2005, AT 9.30 AM, AT THE ORCHARD HOTEL

I am honoured to join you all at the opening of the 13^th Biennial Asian Regional Association of Home Economics International Congress 2005. I would like especially to extend a warm welcome to the many international delegates who are here with us today.

2 This is the second time that

Singapore

is the proud host of the Congress, with the first being in 1989. The ARAHE has contributed much to the promotion and development of Home Economics both regionally and globally – it has taken great effort in furthering the Home Economics discipline and expanding the role of Home Economists in this immensely diversified technological and entrepreneurial era.

3 Around the world, Home Economists continue to raise awareness of the importance of Home Economics skills and abilities needed to manage resources and improve the quality of everyday life for individuals, families and communities. Often, social, economic and environmental issues impact the management of resources for many people around the world. However, through education, we can instill in our students the values and skills required to be resourceful so that they can effectively tackle the challenges of an increasingly globalised, knowledge-based economy. Education in Home Economics will also help students to understand the role that individuals, families and households play in the larger environment.

4 With the emphasis of inculcating a spirit of innovation and enterprise in our schools, a core set of life skills and attitudes can be developed in both students and teachers.

Through the innovative ideas that teachers generate, coupled with their conviction and passion, Home Economics can nurture and inspire continuous generations of students to continue to improve the quality of life for the individual, family and society.

5 I would like to commend the Association of Home Economists,

Singapore

and the National Institute of Education for jointly organizing this Congress.

6 I am glad to see so many teachers here. Their presence demonstrates a commitment towards acquiring knowledge and sharing. For it is through learning that they can impart to their students what they have experienced.

7 I am sure all participants can expect an invaluable exchange in educational knowledge and professional competencies through the discussions with Home Economics educators, researchers, edupreneurs and professionals of varied businesses and industries from different parts of the world. This is indeed a wonderful opportunity to learn, share, network and discuss new directions and novel ideas, as well as to further define the important role that Home Economists play in the new economy.

8 I wish you all a productive exchange and valuable networking experience over the next three days.