At the National University of Singapore (NUS), alumni contributions extend far beyond traditional financial support. Our alumni give back by engaging in volunteering, mentoring, and providing internships, enriching the education experience of their juniors and making a positive difference to the wider community around them. These non-financial contributions are vital. They offer real-world insights and hands-on experiences that bridge the gap between academic theories and practical applications.
Through these activities, alumni share their expertise to foster a supportive community for collaboration and continuous learning. Their involvement ensures that NUS continues to nurture well-equipped graduates ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
Kenny Chen: Fostering Entrepreneurial Spirit
Mr Kenny Chen (Engineering ’20), also known as 'Market Boy', has taken his NUS engineering education and entrepreneurial spirit to the marketplace. After helping his family’s market stall go digital, he extended his expertise to mentor NUS students interested in entrepreneurship. Through internships and alumni mentorship programmes, Mr Chen provides practical, real-world business exposure, equipping students with the skills necessary to launch and manage successful ventures. His hands-on approach to guiding young entrepreneurs reflects the practical application of NUS education in addressing contemporary business challenges.
Jamson Chia: Guiding Juniors Through Campus Life
Mr Jamson Chia (Engineering ’03), an alumnus of Temasek Hall, leverages the personal and professional development gained during his time at NUS to mentor current students. As a non-resident fellow at Temasek Hall, Mr Chia takes an active role in the personal and leadership development of his juniors. His involvement as an alumni mentor provides students with insights into effectively balancing academic, social, and leadership responsibilities. He has also set up the Strategic Alliance Leadership Scholarship for Temasek Hall residents who demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities, embodying the spirit of giving back by nurturing the next generation of leaders right at their campus home.
Internships: Bridging Theory and Practice
Internships serve as a crucial bridge between academic theory and practical application, offering students invaluable firsthand experience in their fields of study. Alumni who give back by facilitating these opportunities significantly enhance the educational journey and career readiness of students, supporting their long-term success. A standout example of this alumni-driven initiative is the internship programme offered by Neoasia.
Neoasia: Cultivating Future Professionals
Neoasia, a leader in medical aesthetics technologies in Asia, offers enriching internships to NUS students, blending academic theories with practical industry experience. These internships, crafted by CEO Mr Chen Heng Hui (Economics ’10), an NUS alumnus, immerse students in real-world projects, enhancing their professional skills and industry understanding.
The programme’s reciprocal nature benefits both students and Neoasia. Interns bring innovative ideas and fresh perspectives, enriching the company’s talent pool and fostering organisational growth. Guided by alumni like Mr Chen and Ms Maybelline Ang, Neoasia champions philanthropic initiatives. These include bursaries and community support, showcasing the diverse ways alumni contribute to NUS and its community.
Supporting Academic Excellence through Named Professorships
Named professorships at NUS established by alumni also have the potential to significantly enhance the University’s academic environment by advancing educational opportunities. Some of these include:
Abu Rauff Professorship in Surgery
Established in 2016 during NUS Medicine’s 110th anniversary, the Abu Rauff Professorship in Surgery has been pivotal in enhancing surgical education and alumni mentorship. Initiated by Professor Lee Chuen Neng (Medicine ’75), Dr Ngoi Sing Shang (Medicine ’81), Professor Walter Tan, and Professor Wong Peng Cheang, this Professorship accelerates the training of both undergraduate and postgraduate students. It supports the development of surgical skills and translational research, aiming to provide affordable, world-class healthcare in Singapore and internationally.
Ling Chaw Ming Professorship in Orthopaedics
The Ling Chaw Ming Professorship in Orthopaedics, founded in 2017 through a generous contribution from the Ling family, honours Dr Ling Chaw Ming (Medicine ’65) and his lifelong commitment to orthopaedics. This Professorship supports the University’s efforts to advance orthopaedic knowledge and practice. It focuses on the comprehensive education and mentorship of medical students to further enhance healthcare standards in Singapore.
How Alumni Can Give Back to NUS
At NUS, the contributions of alumni giving extend beyond traditional philanthropy. By volunteering, mentoring, or offering internships, you can significantly impact our students’ education journey and prepare them for the challenges of the real world.
Interested in making a difference? Consider supporting philanthropic opportunities—amongst other initiatives—that enhance the University’s educational landscape.
Your involvement enriches the student experience and strengthens our global alumni network. By participating, you create a legacy of impactful engagement at NUS.
