Creating Our Future –Niche Areas and Quality Learning Experiences

3.         The school has continued to emphasise a well-balanced education for pupils relevant to the present and prepared for the future.  I understand that the school has chosen International Chess as one its niche areas, among others such as Basketball and Art. 

4.         It is a good choice and I congratulate the school for its wisdom. Playing International Chess cultivates good sportsmanship, rational decision-making and resilience, traits which are highly relevant in a globalised future. I understand that the school has organized the highly innovative Chess Festival to share experiences among its pupils.  

5.         These learning experiences are made possible by teachers who relentlessly create opportunities both within and beyond the curriculum. For example, the school has a hydroponics project which allows the P4 pupils to learn about Science in an engaged manner. Your teachers have also secured sponsorship for a mini weather station by Senoko Power, which will enable pupils to gain deep insights into environmental issues.

6.         Such projects are timely and go a long way in nurturing the next generation to be more environmentally-conscious.  I commend the school for your efforts in providing exciting learning experiences to your students and I would like to encourage you to go further so that our children, and their children, may continue to have the best opportunities to learn and thrive in Singapore’s environment.  

Community Bonding and Racial Harmony

7.         In today’s globalised world, the nurturing of the heartware  cannot be over-emphasised.  In this respect, schools play a vital role in creating conducive environments to help pupils develop an understanding of and a respect for different cultures, religions and nationalities. 

8.         I am heartened to note that the school has been conducting Conversational Malay for its non-Malay pupils as a CCA.  This will certainly help enhance inter-racial understanding among your students.  I also understand that Kheng Cheng has a significant number of pupils from China and the ASEAN countries. The presence of these foreign pupils presents many opportunities to learn cultural practices and customs of other countries.  I would like to encourage the school to leverage on this opportunity. 

Synergy among Key Stakeholders

9.         A successful school cannot function in isolation - effective school leadership and committed, capable teachers are critical but they alone are not sufficient.  Support and participation from all stakeholders are also needed for the school to be successful.  These include the School Management Committee,  the parents and the Alumni.  This evening is a good opportunity for us to recognise their contributions and support.

10.       Among them is Mr Tan Chong Tee, a Kheng Cheng alumnus, and son of the Founder of the school.  At 90 years’ old, Mr Tan remains active and has devoted much of his time and effort to continue the legacy left behind by his mother, Mdm Lim Peng Tuan, whom I talked about earlier. As an active volunteer art teacher, he helps out with nurturing the talents of Kheng Cheng pupils. He is a good example of how schools and the community can work together to create the best future for our children. 

11.       I urge the Kheng Cheng School alumni to follow the example of Mr Tan to continue serving and supporting your alma mater with whatever talents and means you have, and in doing so, contribute towards Singapore’s future.

Conclusion

12.       With the unflagging support from all your key stakeholders under the leadership of your principal, I am certain that Kheng Cheng School will continue to scale new heights and live up to your name and the founder’s vision.

13.       On this note, I congratulate the SMC, Principal, staff, parents and pupils of Kheng Cheng School on your 80th anniversary. I wish you well as you continue in your journey towards greater excellence. 

14.       Thank you.