For YOUths, With Youths
Youth Engagement Session with Minister for Education
Written By
Zoe Tan Ziyi
Individual Programme - Wushu, Extended Diploma in Business Studies

Recently, two student-athletes from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and I had the opportunity to engage with Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing during an MOE dialogue session. The event gathered youth representatives to discuss key educational issues and aspirations for Singapore.
Minister Chan addressed concerns such as academic stress, balancing studies with co-curricular activities, and evolving job market demands. He emphasised the importance of strong political leadership for a country to stay on track. “Our nation’s founding and survival up till now, is not based on luck, but rather on strategies and good political leadership. For our nation to survive and prosper in the future, we, as leaders of the future need to be clear on what values we hold and what contributions we can bring to the global stage,” said Minister Chan. The session was designed to be a discussion session rather than a speech, making it more engaging for our student-athletes.
Beyond academics, discussions covered mental health awareness, social mobility, and inclusivity, reinforcing the government's dedication to a supportive learning environment. Minister Chan also explained how resources are allocated to enhance digital learning, sports development, and specialised training programmes.
It was great to have youth voices heard. The session was insightful, and I appreciated the opportunity to voice and hear different perspectives, be it from other youths or Minister Chan. IBDP student-athlete and shuttler Stefanie Lee, who attended the session with me, shared her thoughts on the session: “Minister Chan mentioned that we should not answer yesterday’s question with yesterday’s answer. This made me realise that we should look towards the future and predict problems that may arise before they come up.”
The dialogue was a valuable exposure to national discussions and policy-making processes. These experiences empower us to become well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the future of education and society.
Written By
Zoe Tan Ziyi
Individual Programme - Wushu, Extended Diploma in Business Studies

Recently, two student-athletes from the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and I had the opportunity to engage with Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing during an MOE dialogue session. The event gathered youth representatives to discuss key educational issues and aspirations for Singapore.
Minister Chan addressed concerns such as academic stress, balancing studies with co-curricular activities, and evolving job market demands. He emphasised the importance of strong political leadership for a country to stay on track. “Our nation’s founding and survival up till now, is not based on luck, but rather on strategies and good political leadership. For our nation to survive and prosper in the future, we, as leaders of the future need to be clear on what values we hold and what contributions we can bring to the global stage,” said Minister Chan. The session was designed to be a discussion session rather than a speech, making it more engaging for our student-athletes.
Beyond academics, discussions covered mental health awareness, social mobility, and inclusivity, reinforcing the government's dedication to a supportive learning environment. Minister Chan also explained how resources are allocated to enhance digital learning, sports development, and specialised training programmes.
It was great to have youth voices heard. The session was insightful, and I appreciated the opportunity to voice and hear different perspectives, be it from other youths or Minister Chan. IBDP student-athlete and shuttler Stefanie Lee, who attended the session with me, shared her thoughts on the session: “Minister Chan mentioned that we should not answer yesterday’s question with yesterday’s answer. This made me realise that we should look towards the future and predict problems that may arise before they come up.”
The dialogue was a valuable exposure to national discussions and policy-making processes. These experiences empower us to become well-rounded individuals who can contribute meaningfully to the future of education and society.