Medical education in Singapore plays a pivotal role in shaping the healthcare system by producing skilled and compassionate healthcare professionals.
The Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore (NUS) stands at the forefront of this mission, nurturing future doctors, nurses, and medical specialists who are equipped with the knowledge and empathy to serve the public. Their education is instrumental in ensuring the highest standards of care in Singapore’s healthcare landscape as patient needs and healthcare challenges rapidly evolve.
However, access to this quality education may not be within reach for everyone due to financial constraints. This is why student bursaries are crucial — they provide deserving students with the support they need to pursue their medical dreams and contribute to the healthcare system.
Lifelong Bonds for a Lasting Cause
Dr Low Boon Yong
From strangers to schoolmates to friends for life, the NUS Medical Class of 1976 shares an unbreakable bond to this day. Now, Dr Low Boon Yong (Medicine ’76) is tapping into that long-lasting friendship for a good cause.
Dr Low and his batchmates are raising funds to establish a medical student bursary for financially needy undergraduates who are studying to become doctors, nurses, dentists or pharmacists. The Alumni Association Centennial Celebration – Medical Class of ’76 Bursary will commemorate the Medical Alumni Association’s 100th anniversary in 2023.
“I wanted to do something meaningful with the team of 1976. I’m very thankful for the medical education which allowed us to contribute to society as a doctor. Our hope is to nurture young medical students to achieve their aspirations, and that they will care for the public with empathy and love,” shared Dr Low, Emeritus Consultant, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Changi General Hospital.
A Legacy of Excellence and Mentorship
Throughout his 45 years in service, Dr Low has made an indelible impact on the medical landscape and the lives of countless patients. He was a transformative force that shaped the Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments of hospitals nationwide. He implemented the triage system at the A&E department, decreasing patients’ waiting times by over 60 percent.
Taught by great mentors along the way, Dr Low is inspired to nurture the next generation of physicians and surgeons. Today, he teaches junior doctors in the hospital, as well as students at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.
In recognition of his contributions, Dr Low was conferred as Emeritus Consultant at the SingHealth Doctors and Dentists Long Service Awards 2022.
When asked what personal beliefs have made him who he is today, he said: “A doctor should be committed to the profession and passionate about care for their patients. When serving patients, one should always have the mind of a versatile scientist, the heart of a saint and the passion of a master chef.”
Honouring Alumni Who Inspire the Next Generation
Dr Lee Keen Whye, Dr Anna Wong, Dr Low Boon Yong, Dr Goh Mei Lin, Dr Kek Lee Phin and Dr Lee Soon Tai.
Dr Lee Keen Whye (Medicine ’77) and Dr Lee Soon Tai (Medicine ’77) are among the key donors contributing to this meaningful bursary.
Despite growing up in challenging conditions, Dr Lee Soon Tai and Dr Lee Keen Whye overcame the hurdles of poverty and became prominent figures in healthcare and hospitality. A quality higher education was instrumental in their journey to success, as their parents, despite financial hardships, prioritised schooling for their children. This foundation enabled them to achieve remarkable careers.
Following their graduation, Dr Lee Soon Tai pursued a surgical fellowship and became an esteemed orthopaedic surgeon, while Dr Lee Keen Whye specialised as an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. In 2012, they joined forces with Dr Low Boon Yong to venture into the hospitality industry, establishing the Clover Hotel Group, which has since expanded its presence from Singapore to Thailand and China.
Whether caring for patients or serving hotel guests, Dr Low Boon Yong, Dr Lee Soon Tai and Dr Lee Keen Whye have always believed that people are at the core of their work. This belief has driven them to generously contribute their time, skills, and resources to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
With the establishment of the Medical Class of ’76 Bursary, they seek to support the University’s mission to create a more inclusive society where education serves as a powerful social leveller. They also hope to ignite a cycle of generosity, inspiring recipients to give back and continue the legacy of giving.
Creating a Lasting Impact Through Giving
The healthcare sector requires the very best talents to meet evolving challenges and changing needs, making it essential to support the development of future generations. Class giving and alumni giving are powerful ways to support these students.
These contributions not only help students overcome financial barriers through higher education bursaries but also ensure that Singapore continues to produce top-tier healthcare professionals.
By making a gift to NUS, you can make a lasting impact on students’ lives and the healthcare system. Your generosity can help shape the future of healthcare, one student at a time.
