Speech by Ms. Sun Xueling, Senior Minister of State for Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Transport & CDAC Board Member, at the CDAC Character & Learning Awards Ceremony
MARQUEE, SCIENCE CENTRE SINGAPORE
Our Award Recipients
Parents and Family Members
I am delighted to be with you this morning at the CDAC Character and Learning Awards Ceremony. Let me first begin by congratulating all our students receiving the awards today. Well done!
Over the years, the CDAC Tuition Programme has supported many students in maximising their academic potential. CDAC has also introduced Spot: Beyond, a wide range of interest-based and holiday programmes, including Arts & Craft, Speech & Drama, Music, Coding, and Robotics. CDAC has also built a new Tinkering Space area at the newly renovated CDAC@ Bukit Panjang. This runs multiple hands-on activities for our children and youth. We aim to provide our students with opportunities to explore, discover, and grow in areas that spark their passion beyond the school curriculum. Through these efforts, we hope to support our students in a holistic way, fostering both academic growth and personal development.
Today, we will present the Academic Progress Award and the CDAC Character & Learning-Disposition Award to 330 students. These awards celebrate not just academic improvement, but also the strong character and values they uphold. These include respect, resilience, and care. Let me share two stories of award recipients who exemplify these qualities.
CDAC Academic Progress Award and Character & Learning-Disposition Award Recipient, Lee Le Xuan Lloyin
Lloyin is a Secondary Four student from Northland Secondary School and joined the tuition programme since Primary One. This year, she will be sitting for her ‘O’ level examinations. To Lloyin, the CDAC Tuition Programme has given her the extra help she needed, with tutors whom she could turn to for guidance.
Her Science tutor, Mr Tjan Kwang Wei, describes Lloyin as a hardworking, intelligent, and well-rounded student. She excels academically while actively participating in sports and pursuing her hobbies. Lloyin consistently goes the extra mile with her work and readily supports her peers. A confident public speaker with strong leadership potential, she is attentive and engaged in class, always giving her best. Mr Tjan believes that she will grow into an excellent leader in the future.
Lloyin dreams of becoming a psychologist to support others in their mental health. Today, we’re proud to present her with both the Academic Progress and the Character & Learning-Disposition Awards. Congratulations, Lloyin!
CDAC Academic Progress Award and Character & Learning-Disposition Award Recipient, Poh Jie Qi Jaemie
Another student who is receiving the Academic Progress and the Character & Learning-Disposition Award is Poh Jie Qi, Jaemie. She is a Secondary Three student at Manjusri Secondary School, who attends Chinese and Mathematics tuition at CDAC. She shared how each tutor has uniquely shaped her learning journey, and how CDAC has become more than just a tuition centre. It is a place where she gains knowledge, builds friendships, and nurtures her passion for giving back as a volunteer in the future.
Her Mathematics tutor, Mr Peh Chin Keong, describes Jaemie as a dedicated and responsible learner who shows perseverance in all she does. She is curious, committed, and respectful, always willing to support her peers and learn from every experience. Her positive attitude and commitment make her a deserving awardee.
Jaemie enjoys sharing her experiences at CDAC with her mother, who encourages her passion for community work. Inspired to give back, Jaemie hopes to make a difference in the lives of others in future. Keep up the great work, Jaemie!
Conclusion
Today’s celebration would not be possible without the unwavering support of tutors, parents, and families. Thank you for believing in our students and walking alongside them in their journey.
To our students; as you continue to grow, stay curious, keep exploring, and expand your interests. Be open to new perspectives, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Most importantly, I encourage you to give back; extend a helping hand to others just like the community has done for you. Together, we can build a more compassionate and inclusive society; one step, one act at a time.
Once again, my warmest congratulations to all our award winners! May you enjoy a joyful celebration with your loved ones. Thank you.