3                We need more Singaporeans with a deep sense of civic purpose and compassion to step forward and volunteer their time and energy in helping those who are in need. Together, we would be able to provide those with disabilities with a more comprehensive provision of services and programme.  All of us have a part to play including taking small steps, to help those with special needs feel more at ease in society. 

4                While the Government will carry the major share of funding, provision of infrastructure and the hardware, we need committed and dedicated individuals and volunteers who are able to deliver the necessary services with care and compassion to impact the lives of the less privileged.  This is the passion that is present here today that has struck me most – the ‘heartware’ with which you have devoted yourself to those who need your support and care. 

5                I am also pleased to note the heart-warming work of the Asian Women’s Welfare Association (AWWA) and share their pride in having this new and beautiful building, called ACCESS, to house all its various services.  In particular, I would like to single out AWWA’s efforts in providing for children with autism.  In 2002, they promptly responded to the call by MOE and the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) to help cater to the growing demand for children with autism seeking special education.  AWWA School’s ‘Project Challenge’ which started off with just 18 pupils with autism in 2002, now has an enrolment of 76. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate them for their fine effort.

6                In the last 3 years, there is concerted effort by MOE and NCSS to address the demand for places in the Special Education (SPED) Schools.  Here I would like to commend all the SPED Schools for their strong community spirit in responding to the emerging needs of children with autism and taking on the challenge of providing places for them in their schools and starting new programmes to cater to their needs.  Their contribution is significant as they have allowed more children with autism receive the specialised care that they need in a special environment. 

7               NCSS and MOE are aware of physical constraints of some SPED Schools.  Hence, in August 2004, the Autism Association, Singapore, started a new school, the Singapore Autism School which is located in Yuan Ching Road, to help meet the demands of children with autism staying in the west zone. 

8               Another endeavour was managing the placement of pupils with autism who graduates at 12 years.  Here, I am pleased to announce that the St Andrew’s Mission Hospital (SAMH) will start a SPED School for adolescents aged 13 to 18 with moderate to severe autism.  The St Andrew’s Autism School will open in January 2006 and operate at the St Andrew’s Community Hospital till its purpose-built school at the SAMH premises in Elliot Road is completed at end of 2008. The school will complement the programmes provided by the other SPED schools and provide an educational pathway for teenagers with autism who would otherwise be transferred to day-activity centres.  With the opening of the St Andrew’s Autism School, the needs of teenagers with autism can be better catered for.

9               MOE will continue to support the work of the Voluntary Welfare Organisations and the community so that together, we can be more effective in our efforts to help every child reach his full potential.  

10              I would like to wish all present an enjoyable concert.  Do sing your hearts out and clap along and be part of the performances to make this afternoon a memorable one.