Sikh community lauded for its commitment to engage young graduates

YSA has done well to regularly engage young Sikh graduates. This point was made by Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Ms Grace Fu, as she addressed the audience at the annual Sikh Graduate Tea Reception, organised by the YSA, in collaboration with the Central Sikh Gurdwara Board (CSGB), on 18 November 2017.

Referring to the annual event, Ms Fu said, “As far as I know, YSA is the only (ethnic community group) in Singapore that organises this gathering for graduates from local and foreign universities and polytechnics.” Both the YSA and the CSGB have been organising the annual function, where it honours graduates from the Sikh community with diploma, undergraduates or postgraduate qualifications, since 2008. Ms Fu had previously attended the second edition of the reception in 2009. Ms Fu added that she was happy to support an initiative that demonstrated the community’s commitment to recognise and appreciate its youth.

In his opening remarks delivered earlier, YSA President, Mr Malminderjit Singh, shared that the graduates should understand the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness. They should also strive to develop themselves especially through informal learning. While on the quest of doing so, they should never let go of the burning desire to want to participate in the community and be part of various networks.

Reiterating this point about community involvement, Ms Fu stated that it was important for these young graduates to be involved in the community in any way they can, as they can stay in touch with the core values of their community. “It’s very important for us to have our own set of values, for example, how we treat our parents, the people around us, the elderly – these are all important values that will guide us, and we need to find that for ourselves. So, cherish the opportunities that your community has provided you, and always remember the values that can support and guide you.”

The 42 graduates who received their appreciation plaques from Ms Fu were earlier also treated to a talk on ‘The Future Economy and Skills’ by guest speaker, Mr Bobby Bhatia, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TrakInvest.

More than 60 guests attended the reception. These included community leaders and the family members of the graduates.