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Fifty trees have found their forever homes in NUS’ University Town as part of the Plant-It-Forward Challenge – an initiative that ties philanthropy with climate action.
NUS President, Professor Tan Eng Chye (second from left) and Mr Johnny Tan, Chairman of the PIF Challenge (first from left), joined participants in the tree-planting activity, which was held in conjunction with the NUS Plant-It-Forward Day.
On November 4, 2023, the National University of Singapore (NUS) hosted the inaugural Plant-It-Forward (PIF) Day, an event that beautifully intertwined philanthropy with climate action.
Held in NUS’ University Town, this event saw over 80 NUS alumni, students, staff, friends, and families come together to plant fifty trees, marking the official launch of the PIF Challenge. This initiative not only supports students in financial need through the Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme (EFAS) but also contributes to Singapore’s larger environmental sustainability efforts, aligning with the National Parks Board’s OneMillionTrees movement. The event also served as a platform to celebrate the generosity of those who have supported the PIF Challenge so far.
Engaging Alumni and the Community in Sustainability Initiatives
In his opening address, NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye highlighted the significance of providing equal and quality education for all students regardless of their financial backgrounds, as well as the growing need to address climate change. He also expressed his deep appreciation to alumni and donors for their steadfast support of the University’s commitment to be an equitable educator and an active steward of the environment.
The Plant-It-Forward Challenge exemplifies how sustainability initiatives in Singapore can have a dual impact. Funds raised through the Challenge support the Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme (EFAS), which ensures full-time Singaporean undergraduates, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to a transformative education experience at NUS. For every S$1,000 raised, a tree is planted on the NUS campus, contributing to the University’s commitment to plant 100,000 trees by 2030. This initiative showcases how Singapore philanthropy can support both educational and environmental causes simultaneously.
A Day of Artistic Expression and Environmental Impact
Participants engaging in the artistic batik painting activity.
The Plant-It-Forward Day kicked off with a vibrant burst of colours as participants engaged in a batik painting activity on a single canvas. The final art piece, which will be displayed on the NUS campus, serves as a lasting memento of the collective dedication to making a difference for the University’s students and the environment.
A morning well-spent: With their gardening gloves and shovels, participants of the tree-planting activity left a positive environmental impact and paved the way for a fundraising campaign in support of students in financial need.
Finally, the heart of the event unfolded as participants put on their gardening gloves, picked up their shovels and came together for the tree-planting activity. It was an inspiring sight to witness as donors collectively left their mark, fostering a greener and cooler campus. Each of the 50 trees planted symbolises a step towards a more sustainable future and attests to NUS’ commitment to empower students from financially challenging backgrounds, to become the next generation of changemakers.
Long-Term Impact of the Plant-It-Forward Challenge at NUS
The two-piece batik painting completed by participants of the Plant-It-Forward Day was unveiled by NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye (third from right); Chairman of the PIF Challenge, Mr Johnny Tan (second from right) and Co-Chair of the PIF Challenge, Mr Ow Tai Zhi (first from left). Joining them are Champions of the PIF Challenge, Mr Yeo Keng Joon (second from left) and Ms Hazel Lim (third from left) and Chief Alumni Officer Ms Ovidia Lim-Rajaram (first on right).
As the event drew to a close, Mr Johnny Tan, Chairman of the PIF Challenge, encouraged everyone to spread the word and sustain the momentum beyond the Plant-It-Forward Day.
“Engaging in fundraising with a shared and meaningful objective can genuinely nurture a sense of pride and help bring the community together. Let’s help to spread the message and continue our efforts for this worthwhile and meaningful purpose,” said Mr Tan, highlighting the importance of engaging in philanthropic acts with shared and meaningful objectives, which can foster a sense of pride and bring the community together.
The PIF Challenge stands as a testament to the power of social impact initiatives. By integrating tree planting programmes within a network of larger sustainability initiatives, NUS continues to pave the way for a greener and more inclusive future. Alumni can also contribute to this cause through avenues such as class giving and annual giving, supporting initiatives that leave a lasting impact on both the environment and students’ lives.
As NUS continues to champion sustainability initiatives in Singapore, the involvement and support of its community are crucial. Together, we can ensure a brighter, greener future for all.
