Celebrating Journeys of Progress, Potential and Possibility: 23rd Joint Tuition Awards 403 SINDA students among 1,417 recipients recognised for their academic progress.
Jointly organised by the Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC), the Eurasian Association (EA), the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) and Yayasan MENDAKI (MENDAKI), the 23rd Self-Help Groups’ Joint Tuition Awards (JTA) celebrated the achievements of students from the Collaborative Tuition Programme (CTP). Dr. Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, graced the ceremony as Guest of Honour.
In his remarks, Senior Minister of State Dr Janil highlighted the importance of recognising students’ progress and resilience, and the collective support of the Self-Help Groups, schools and families. He also encouraged students to embrace lifelong learning and adaptability to thrive in an AI-enabled future, while giving back to their communities.
This year’s ceremony recognised a total of 1,417 award recipients across the four Self-Help Groups, including 403 students from SINDA. Among the recipients were 16 Best Overall Award recipients who demonstrated exceptional progress, improving by several grades in the 2025 PSLE, GCE N(A)-Level, GCE N(T)-Level and GCE O-Level examinations. Of the 403 SINDA award recipients, 266 were recognised at the PSLE level, while 137 were recognised across the GCE N(A)-Level, N(T)-Level and O-Level categories.
Since 2024, students who passed and improved by at least one grade have been eligible for the awards under standardised criteria across the four Self-Help Groups. Primary and secondary school recipients received cash awards of S$150 and S$200, respectively.
Touching on SINDA’s continued commitment to supporting Indian students in strengthening their academic foundations, Mr. Anbarasu Rajendran, Chief Executive Officer of SINDA said, “Every student’s success shows what is possible when potential is matched with opportunity and support. Education remains a powerful driver of social mobility and community progress. Through the CTP, we have worked with our Self-Help Group partners to expand access to quality educational support. Looking ahead, SINDA remains committed to equipping our young with the confidence and capabilities to thrive and contribute to Singapore’s future.”
Launched in 2002, the CTP was established by the four Self-Help Groups to provide students from lower-income families with access to quality, affordable tuition across Singapore, closer to their homes. From 11 tuition centres at its inception, the CTP has expanded to 232 centres in 2026 and currently supports approximately 18,692 students. Under the CTP, SINDA supports students through education programmes such as SINDA Tutorials for Enhanced Performance (STEP), Guide- Home-Based Learning and Teach.
Beyond simply providing academic support, the CTP has also been harnessing AI and digital tools to enhance learning and to prepare students for the future. Since 2022, AI-enabled learning tools have been incorporated into tuition to provide personalised learning and immediate feedback, complementing the role of tutors. The Self-Help Groups also support future readiness through partnerships with Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), providing students with opportunities to engage with technology and develop relevant skills.
The Self-Help Groups remain committed to supporting students holistically, from academic progress to future readiness. Working alongside families, educators and the wider community, they continue to empower young people to develop their strengths and contribute meaningfully to Singapore’s future and growth.
Photo and information: SINDA (Singapore Indian Development Association)