Singapore Polytechnic Reading Event

Partners: Singapore Polytechnic & National Library Board (NLB)

In the spirit of playing older brothers and sisters, 142 student volunteers from Singapore Polytechnic’s School of Business stepped forward to share the joys and benefits of reading and speaking good English with children of all ages. Organised by the Speak Good English Movement (SGEM) and NLB, the programme emphasised the importance of reading and speaking good English from a young age for a strong foundation in the language.

The event took place in 5 libraries across the island and was filled with songs, action, drama and puppets. Guided by the student volunteers, 374 children and parents participated in reading cum storytelling sessions and a tour of the children’s section of the libraries.

“We are very pleased with the enthusiasm and support shown by the student volunteers, and we hope to see more tertiary institutions join us in this worthy activity. Reading good books in standard English is an important part of a child’s development and that will be the first step to take in laying the foundation of speaking good English,” said Professor Koh Tai Ann, Chairman of SGEM.

To further promote the importance of speaking good English and to show their commitment to this goal, the students also publicly recited a pledge to speak good English for 2 weeks following the event. They would also encourage their families, classmates and friends to do the same.