SMU wins top award for transforming lives through community impact
On 18 July 2024, SMU proudly took home the prestigious Excellence Award at the People's Association Community Spirit Awards, recognising its unwavering commitment to building a more caring and inclusive Singapore. SMU students have been at the heart of efforts to uplift communities and foster social cohesion. This award is a testament to SMU’s dedication to creating real-world impact beyond the classroom.
The award recognises partners for their outstanding dedication and efforts in fostering a caring and cohesive community, and SMU was presented the award in recognition of its significant contributions to various Central Singapore Community Development Council (CDC) initiatives that aim to promote social inclusion, community engagement, and lifelong learning.
Through these initiatives, SMU students have contributed to the enhancement of the lives of individuals across Singapore – particularly those from vulnerable and disadvantaged backgrounds.
Supporting beneficiaries from vulnerable backgrounds
One of the initiatives SMU has participated in partnership with the CDC includes assisting residents with the redemption of CDC vouchers at community clubs across Singapore. The CDC Vouchers scheme provides essential vouchers to low-income households to help them cope with the cost of living.
Besides this, SMU student volunteers also participated in the SkillsFuture Junior Stars Nurture – a programme that provides learning opportunities for vulnerable children, inculcating future-ready skill that complement the efforts of MOE schools and Self-Help Groups in developing the children’s 21st Century Competencies.
In 2024, SMU volunteers supported 10 Nurture centres in the Central Singapore district, helping children build confidence as communicators, developing their capacity for problem-solving, and enhancing their motivation for self-directed learning.
Encouraging inclusivity and diversity
SMU students are also proud participants in various activities that celebrate diversity and promote inclusivity. For example, the SMU Chinese Orchestra featured members from The Purple Symphony, an inclusive orchestra that highlights the talents of persons with special needs during its annual production and 15th Anniversary on 24 June 2023.
SMU Disability Support Services also proudly marked its sixth year of participation in The Purple Parade celebrations in 2023 – an annual event which underscores SMU’s unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity and celebrating the abilities of individuals with disabilities.
In the lead-up to the contingent march, Executive Committee members of the SMU Purple student advocacy group organised a creative fringe activity where participants crafted purple inclusivity-themed bracelets. The activity not only fostered a sense of community but was also symbolic of SMU’s dedication to inclusion.
The Purple Parade continues to be a significant platform for SMU to demonstrate its ongoing support for persons with disabilities, reinforcing the values of inclusivity and empowerment that are central to the university's mission.
This Award highlights SMU’s spirit of social responsibility and reflects its commitment in fostering a culture of compassion and diversity. The University will continue to contribute actively to the well-being of communities in Singapore and beyond.
