A total of 16 candidates received the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship (SSS) from Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (MSE), Ms Grace Fu, at the virtual scholarship award ceremony this afternoon. The SSS is jointly offered by the National Environment Agency (NEA), PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency (PUB), and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA).
The SSS seeks to groom and nurture young talent who are keen to develop a career to strengthen Singapore’s environmental resilience and food and water security. Each year, the scholarship identifies potential changemakers with the foresight to anticipate future challenges and develop solutions for climate change, energy efficiency, the nation’s water resources and food security. The scholars will pursue majors in the engineering, environmental, food and science-related disciplines in either a local or overseas university. Upon graduation, the scholars will begin their career with either NEA, PUB or SFA and embark on a fulfilling career, while playing their part in Singapore’s sustainability story. Since the inception of the scholarship in 2008, a total of 208 scholarships have been awarded.
19-year-old S. Sandiyashini is one of the recipients of the SSS from NEA this year. Her strong interest in Biology and Chemistry in school led her to decide to pursue a Bachelor of Science (Life Sciences) with Management at the National University of Singapore, with the hope that it will equip her with the skills and knowledge to tackle environmental and public health issues in Singapore. Sandiyashini shared, “I believe that NEA’s purpose and roles align with my interests, and I would be honoured to gain work exposure and make a difference in Singapore’s sustainability agenda through the opportunities that NEA can offer”. (Refer to Annex A for information on all the scholarship recipients).
Mr Luke Goh, Chief Executive Officer of NEA, said, “NEA welcomes to our ranks kindred spirits passionate about building a sustainable Singapore, with a heart for Stewardship of the environment. We are glad to have the seven from this year’s cohort of students committing to serve and work alongside diverse stakeholder groups to improve our environment. We look forward to their contributions.”
Tan Shern Kai, 19, who will be pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, is one of the scholarship recipients from PUB. He had completed an internship with PUB’s Kranji NEWater Factory, where he worked with the research and development team, in areas such as project management, and data analytics that support operational efficiency. He said, “During my internship, I learnt how cutting-edge technology can reclaim and treat used water, to ensure a reliable and continuous supply of clean water. Through my studies, I hope to expand my knowledge and understanding on the integration of sustainability in engineering. I look forward to working in PUB, where I can help advance innovation in sustainable solutions to ensure Singapore’s water resilience.”
“Ensuring water resilience and sustainability is critical to Singapore’s survival and economic prosperity and a never-ending task. With climate change, it is even more important that we take proactive steps to protect our water resources. We are pleased to welcome our Singapore Sustainability Scholarship recipients who will join us in PUB’s mission of supplying good water, reclaiming used water, taming stormwater and resisting the rising sea. Together we will work on securing Singapore’s water future”, said Mr Ng Joo Hee, Chief Executive, PUB.
Ms Kwok Jing Lin, 19, is one of the scholarship recipients from SFA. Soon to be embarking on a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology at the National University of Singapore, she believes that investing in research on agricultural technology is key towards enhancing Singapore’s food resilience. “I was attracted to the scholarship offered by SFA as not only is it aligned with my interests in food, SFA is also highly supportive of the scholars’ overall development. I look forward to utilising the knowledge and skills learnt from my studies to help achieve our “30 by 30” target of producing 30% of our nutritional needs locally and sustainably by 2030.”
Mr Lim Kok Thai, Chief Executive of SFA said, “With local farms and companies embracing new technologies and looking at new ways and places to produce food sustainably, SFA is building up the capacity and capability of our agri-food industry. We will need a workforce with varied skillsets and who is passionate in addressing current and future challenges in food security and safety, such as this group of young scholarship recipients. We look forward to their contributions towards ensuring and securing a safe supply of food for Singapore.”
Under the SSS, NEA, PUB and SFA offer both undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships. Both undergraduates and fresh graduates are given the opportunity to pursue a Mid-Term and Master’s scholarship.
NEA focuses on environmental-related domains such as Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, as well as Sciences such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Earth Sciences and Meteorology, amongst others. PUB focuses on students pursuing engineering disciplines, mainly in Civil, Electrical, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering. SFA focuses on Sciences such as Agricultural and Aquacultural Sciences, Chemistry, Biology, and Food Science.
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Annex A
Profiles of Scholarship Recipients
(A) Singapore Sustainability Scholarships awarded from NEA – 6 recipients
(B) Singapore GeoSpatial Postgraduate Scholarship – 1 recipient
| S/N | Name and age | Course and University | Profile |
|
1 |
Macy Tham Yuling
19 years old |
Master of Chemical Engineering with Environmental Engineering
University of Bath, United Kingdom |
Drawn to mission-oriented research, Macy aspires to contribute to the advancement of Singapore’s sustainability mission through realising innovations that translate technology into practical applications.
This passion has led her to pursue a degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialisation in Environmental Engineering at the University of Bath, United Kingdom. Through her career with NEA, Macy hopes to work towards the improvement of Singapore’s waste-to-energy technologies and recycling strategies. |
|
2 |
Lin Xianzhen
21 years old |
Master of Chemical Engineering (via Natural Sciences)
University of Cambridge, United Kingdom |
Xianzhen has an innate curiosity about the world, antecedent of his interest in multidisciplinary science. He previously participated in several Olympiads and science competitions, such as the Amazing Science X-Challenge, and Singapore Junior Biology, Chemistry and Physics Olympiads.
Pursuing a course in Chemical Engineering (via Natural Sciences) at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, Xianzhen hopes the knowledge gained will put him in good stead to drive the development of new innovative and greener technologies in the energy field. |
|
3 |
Teo Xu Yuan Nicholas
22 years old |
Bachelor of Environmental Engineering
National University of Singapore |
Nicholas has a strong interest in climate change and green technologies, and has been exploring this interest through watching documentaries about Earth and the environment.
His mission to tackle environmental issues through green technologies has led him to pursue Environmental Engineering, with a second major in Innovation and Design at National University of Singapore. He hopes that his university education would develop his design thinking skills and contribute to the development of sustainable solutions to resource inefficiency and energy wastage in Singapore. |
|
4 |
Cheong Huey Yew
20 years old
|
Master of Science in Physics
King’s College London, United Kingdom |
Physics has always been Huey Yew’s favourite subject in school. Having the rare opportunity to represent his school in several Physics Olympiads and tournaments has also given him the exposure beyond the academic syllabus and further bolstered his aspiration to pursue Physics, to find out more about the complex principles that explain nature around us.
Huey Yew hopes to apply his knowledge of Physics to the study of terrestrial systems and climate change, and a career in NEA would offer many such opportunities. |
|
5 |
S. Sandiyashini
19 years old |
Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences, with Management
National University of Singapore
|
Sandiyashini discovered her passion in biochemistry research when she delved into a project on biodiesel as an alternative energy source in school.
She hopes her degree in life sciences will equip her with the expertise to further Singapore’s environmental sustainability agenda through research. She believes that NEA will provide her with the platform to collaborate with likeminded research scientists to achieve greater outcomes in sustainability research in Singapore. |
|
6 |
Nai Ze Ming *
26 years old
|
Master of Science in Integrated Sustainable Design
National University of Singapore |
Ze Ming has just graduated with the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Earth System Science at Nanyang Technological University of Singapore.
His university education has piqued his interest in urban sustainability as he gained new insights into environmental sustainability, water systems and food security challenges. The interaction with passionate professors and inspiring individuals during his degree studies has also inspired him to pursue postgraduate studies and deepen his knowledge in urban design and environmental sustainability. Ze Ming is seeking to pursue a career relevant to his studies and he looks forward to a developing a career in NEA which enables him to pursue his passion in urban sustainability. |
|
7 |
Shermaine Neo Xuan Min ^
22 years old |
Master of Applied Geographic Information Systems
National University of Singapore
|
Shermaine has just graduated with the Bachelor of Environmental Studies, with a minor in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) at National University of Singapore.
Her university education has helped her gain fresh perspectives on the use of GIS and remote sensing techniques to facilitate understanding and predict trends in environmental change, which in turn aids in policy and planning. Shermaine looks forward deepening her expertise in GIS through her postgraduate studies, and leveraging this to contribute to our environmental protection efforts. |
* Awarded in 2020 by NEA
^ Awarded the Singapore GeoSpatial Postgraduate Scholarship with NEA as her sponsoring agency
(C) Singapore Sustainability Scholarships awarded from PUB – 6 Recipients
| S/N | Name and age | Course and University | Profile |
|
1 |
Loh Chloe
18 years old |
Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering, Imperial College London, UK | Chloe completed an internship with PUB’s Industry and Technology Collaboration (InTeC) department, where she supported the team in its industry and stakeholder engagement efforts. She was inspired by her colleagues’ commitmenttowards environmentalsustainability and gained insights into how public and private sector players can do their part in protecting our water resources.
She chose Civil Engineering as she believes it is a diverse and impactful field of study in Singapore’s urban cityscape.With a strong desire to contribute and drive sustainable development in Singapore, she aspires to make a positive contribution to the water sector, in areas such as coastalprotection,desalination,reservoir and stormwater management.Through her work at PUB, she hopes to be a role model in promoting water sustainability and resilience. |
|
2 |
Tan Shern Kai
19 years old |
Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore | Shern Kai believes in the importance of developing environmentally sustainable built environments. During his internship at PUB at Kranji NEWater Factory, he supported research and development projects, in areas such as project management, and data analytics that support operational efficiency. He learnt how used water is reclaimed to ensure that Singapore continues to have a reliable and continuous supply of water.
Through his studies in Civil Engineering, he hopes to expand his knowledge and understanding on the integration of sustainability in engineering, to address the effects of climate change impacting the environment, especially Singapore’swater supply. Shern Kai looks forward to working inPUB, where he could help develop innovative and sustainable solutions that ensure Singapore’s water resilience. |
|
3 |
Tracey Tay Yee Hsin
19 years old |
Master of Engineering in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Imperial College London, UK | Tracey chose to study Electrical and Electronic Engineering as it will allow her to contribute to the digitalisation of water systems, towards mitigating the impact of climate change on Singapore’s water supply.
Appreciating the daily access to resources like clean water in Singapore, she desires to ensure the sustainability of these resources for future generations. Tracey hopes the course would equip her with the knowledge toinnovate, and she looks forward to a meaningful career at PUB, where she can contribute to areas such aswater management and security. |
|
4 |
Gao Wen Zhen, James #
19 years old |
Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering,
university to be determined |
Fascinated since young by machines and robots, James wants to study mechanical engineering for its versatility and enormous potential for innovation. Since working on a school research project investigating renewable solutions to water pollutants, he realised the importance of having a clean and reliable supply of water, but it is oft-overlooked and sometimes taken for granted.
He is excited to take on the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship with PUB, as it will empower him to play a part in securing Singapore’s water needs and coastal defence. He looks forward to being part of PUB’sefforts in reclaiming used water,and apply the knowledge gained, to develop innovative solutions that will safeguard Singapore’s water future. |
|
5 |
Voon Zhi Kai,Tristan
20 years old |
Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering,
university to be determined
|
Tristan’s experience at the NEWater Visitor Centre as a five-year old left him with a deep impression of Singapore’s water management efforts, and awareness about the importance of protecting this precious resource.
15 years later, with an interest in Computational Fluid Dynamics, Tristan hopes to pursue a career with PUB, where he can bring a unique and interdisciplinary approach to solving Singapore’s water challenges and beyond. |
|
6 |
Galen Chua Sen Hon
23 years old |
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering, National University of Singapore | Galen is excited to receive the scholarship, which allows him to pursue his interest in Chemical Engineering, and build his career at PUB. His passion for learning, and strong analytical skills, pushes him to achieve his best, to become an invaluable member of the organisation.
He is interested in integrating various forms of technology such as digitalisation and automation into PUB’s operations, as he strongly believes that technology is a driver for efficiency. His appetite for challenges spurs him to constantly improve himself to produce quality work, which he prides himself upon. He is eager to apply his knowledge and skills, to advance PUB’s mission in ensuring adequate, efficient and sustainable water supply for Singapore. |
# Unable to attend the award ceremony
(D) Singapore Sustainability Scholarships awarded from SFA – 6 Recipients
(E) SFA Postgraduate Scholarship awarded from SFA – 1 Recipient
| S/N | Name and age | Course and University | Profile |
|
1 |
Ng Xin Yi Jasmine
20 years old |
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
National University of Singapore |
Jasmine developed a deep interest in Chemistry in secondary school as it was a subject that was applicable and inextricable in many parts of our daily lives. Fuelled by her passion in Chemistry, she chose to pursue Applied Chemistry at Singapore Polytechnic in lieu of the Junior College route.
Chemistry is important in sustainable development since it allows for better food-applicable technology to be developed, alongside more sustainable solutions to challenges we face in our food system today. Jasmine believes she will be an asset in aiding SFA’s search for sustainable solutions in the rapidly advancing world of science and technology. |
|
2 |
Kwok Jing Lin
19 years old |
Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology
National University of Singapore |
Jing Lin’s passion for alternative proteins and agricultural technology spurred her to do more research about cultured meat and plant-based alternatives. With global prevalent issues such as climate crisis and food security vulnerabilities, she believes alternative proteins can play a part in mitigating the environmental impact caused by animal farming. She also desires to do more research on agricultural technological innovations to optimise the yield of local vegetables to achieve the “30 by 30” target and further enhance our food resilience. |
|
3 |
Han Jia Lin **
21 years old
|
Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences (minor in Public Health)
National University of Singapore |
Throughout her studies in polytechnic and university, Jia Lin has been passionate about microbiology and food related diseases, especially in the investigation of foodborne outbreaks and mapping the problem source of these outbreaks. In NUS, she also took a public health minor which covers modules on public health and diseases in the world. She hopes to apply the acquired knowledge from school to help ensure a high level of food hygiene and safety in Singapore and around the world. |
|
4 |
Song Jia Le (Melody) **
20 years old
|
Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences (minor in Communications and New Media)
National University of Singapore |
Melody started following a pescatarian diet at the end of 2019 and since then, had sought to enhance her nutritional literacy on food. Along the way, she noticed that the nutritional label on each food product is very structured and informative to consumers and she began to appreciate SFA’s efforts to ensure safe and quality food in Singapore.
She also found it inspiring that despite being a small and resource-scarce nation, Singapore managed to top the Global Food Security index for two years running. All these, together with her interests in food and nutrition, and the scientifically progressive nature of SFA’s work, led her to apply and accept the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship from SFA. |
|
5 |
McKayla Esther Tanoko **
20 years old
|
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
Imperial College London |
Amid an evolving world and with Singapore relying heavily on food imports, McKayla believes it is not enough to understand the science of how food comes about, but to be also open to changes and willing to adapt to technological advancements to ensure food resilience.
SFA’s mission to secure a safe supply of food requires both strategic and detailed lens and she hopes that her knowledge gleaned from her course in biological sciences and management will be able to contribute to this important mission. |
|
6 |
Ong Choon Yong #
20 years old
|
Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology
National University of Singapore Commencing studies in 2022 |
Choon Yong’s interest in Food Science and Technology was piqued when learning about food in his secondary school’s Geography class. Since then, he has stayed curious on the topic and the challenges it poses. With food being such an indispensable part of our lives, he hopes to be at the forefront of ensuring and securing Singapore’s food supply. |
|
7 |
Wong Shi Ting (Samantha) *** #
28 years old
|
Master of Food Science and Technology,
University of Queensland |
Samantha’s interest is in the quality, quantity and diversity of food. She is driven to pursue a career in the food sector and to take on meaningful challenges to support food security and public health. She aspires to learn about food systems and how we can incorporate sustainability while enhancing food security in Singapore. |
** Awarded in 2020 SSS Mid-cycle offered by SFA
***Awarded 2020 SFA Postgraduate Scholarship
# Unable to attend the award ceremony
