Speech by Mr Masagos Zulkifli, Senior Parlimentary Secretary, Ministry of Education, at Dunman Secondary School's Speech Day and Prize-Giving Ceremony at Dunman Secondary School on Friday, 30 March 2007, at 4.30 pm

SPEECH BY MR MASAGOS ZULKIFLI, SENIOR PARLIMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, AT DUNMAN SECONDARY SCHOOL’S SPEECH DAY AND PRIZE-GIVING CEREMONY AT DUNMAN SECONDARY SCHOOL ON FRIDAY, 30 MARCH 2007, AT 4.30PM

1. I am pleased to be here at Dunman Secondary’s 44th Speech Day. It is heartening to see so many parents and students here this afternoon as we celebrate this happy occasion.

The New Dunman
2. Dunman Secondary has grown from strength to strength since it began as a government school in 1963. Granted autonomous school status in 2001, Dunman Secondary was also one of the first schools to receive the Singapore Quality Class in 2001. I commend the school for clinching, too, the Singapore Innovation Class in 2006 as well as the Public Service Award for Organisation Excellence.

3. Your school is moving into a new phase and I note that you have dubbed it The New Dunman. And it’s rather fitting too as the school will be undergoing PRIME or the Programme for Rebuilding and Improving Existing Schools, later this year. PRIME is a reflection of the Government’s emphasis on education, having spent more than five billion dollars since 1999 to upgrade or rebuild more than 200 schools. PRIME supports the Ministry’s Thinking Schools Learning Nation vision by ensuring that all schools have a conducive physical environment to enhance teaching and learning.

4. By the middle of 2008, you can look forward to a new multi-purpose hall in place of the hall that we are in now. In addition, you will be one of the first schools with an indoor sports hall, which will provide your teachers greater flexibility in conducting Co-Curricular Activities and Physical Education lessons at any time of the school day without having to worry about the weather. Students will also have more opportunities to participate in sports and games, which are integral to holistic education.

5. While up-to-date facilities are necessary to help students learn better, I must emphasise that they cannot replace committed teachers. Our teachers continue to play a pivotal role in maximising the potential of each and every student. Committed teachers are needed to ensure that the students under their charge obtain a broad-based education and develop various peaks of excellence.

Preparing students for the future
6. Dunman Secondary reflects the high standards of education we have achieved in our school system. Over the years, Dunman Secondary has given its students a well-rounded education and groomed them into responsible citizens, ready to contribute to our economy and society. As the world becomes increasingly globalised, our education system must adapt quickly to the global dynamics so that our people can stay relevant. We must create global citizens of our students – a people who are innovative and enterprising, competitive and marketable – so that they have what it takes to venture into unchartered territories both locally and beyond our shores. I am glad that the Dunman values of Discipline; Duty; Diligence; Determination; Discernment and Daring, reflect values and attitudes that will be vital in the new globalised world.

7. While cultivating a global mindset, we must also ensure that our students’ hearts are firmly rooted in Singapore. Our students would be able to call Singapore home, no matter where they are physically. Dunman Secondary has very strong National Education and Character Development programmes. I understand that all of you have opportunities to reflect on national issues at least once a week. Each year, all of you have the chance to work together during the annual school carnival to raise money for the less fortunate in society. I hope that all of you make full use of these opportunities to learn as much as you can about Singapore and about your fellow citizens, as we are all part of the Singapore family.

8. I am also heartened that Dunman Secondary is already looking forward into the future by introducing a new O-Level subject, 3D Animation in 2009. This new subject gives students the chance to learn the latest technology in the biomedical sciences, water technology and digital animation. The school has also developed strategic partnerships with industry partners and post-secondary institutions like Temasek Polytechnic. I shall be pleased to witness the signing of the memorandum of understanding between Dunman Secondary and Temasek Polytechnic later.

Conclusion
9. The achievements and progress of the school today are only possible with the dedication and fine efforts of the school’s School Advisory Committee, the school leaders, staff, supportive parents, dedicated alumni and community partners. I urge the Dunman family to continue to leverage on your strengths to forge ahead, while upholding your values and principles.

10. I would like to also congratulate all award recipients and prize winners for your outstanding academic achievements and co-curricular contributions. You have done your school proud.

11. On this note, I offer my very best wishes to Dunman Secondary on your 44th Anniversary. I wish you well as you continue on your journey of excellence.