Increase in college graduates and decrease in dropouts among Indian community, according to Shanmugam
A Shining Light in Singapore - The Strides of the Indian Community
Hello there! Let's dive into the impressive advancements made by the Indian community in Singapore. From education and median household income to school dropout rates, the story is nothing short of inspiring.
Recently, at an appreciation event for donors, partners, and volunteers of the Singapore Indian Development Association (Sinda), Minister for Home Affairs and Law K. Shanmugam, illuminated some striking figures.
Speaking about education, Mr. Shanmugam, who is also the chairman of Sinda, beamed with pride as he shared that the percentage of degree holders within the Indian community has more than doubled from 2000 to 2020. In fact, in 2020, about four in ten Indians were graduates!
What's more, the number of school dropouts has halved from 2000 to 2020. This means that, whereas 38% of Indians left school without a secondary education in 2000, this figure dropped to 18% in 2020.
In terms of median monthly household income, it's increased by a staggering 40% from 2010 to 2020, rising from $6,000 to $8,500. Yet, Mr. Shanmugam stressed that there's always room for improvement. To lower the school dropout rate further, he emphasized the need for continued focus and action.
Sinda, an organization that supports the Indian community through a wide range of programs, helped nearly 31,500 individuals in 2024. With the support of 578 partners, including corporates, as well as more than 400 volunteers, Sinda was able to make a significant impact in the community. In 2024, the organization received $1.7 million in donations.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the accomplishments of the Indian community during a dialogue with Indian youth on April 13. He acknowledged the significant contributions Indian communities have made in various domains, including business, industry, and the government. He expressed his gratitude for the community's impact on Singapore.
To reinforce the community's growth and representation, it has been announced that the PAP will field several Indians in the upcoming election. Notable new faces include former Agency for Integrated Care CEO Dinesh Vasu Dash, Indian orthopaedic surgeon Hamid Razak, and trade unionist Jagathishwaran Rajo.
So, what are the factors that have led to this progress in the Indian community?
- Quality Education: Singapore's high-quality education system offers a strong foundation in subjects like mathematics and science, which are vital for academic and professional success.
- Cultural Values and Community Support: Indian families place a high value on education, viewing it as the key to social mobility and success. This cultural emphasis encourages children to excel.
- Professional Opportunities: Singapore's vibrant economy, with ample job opportunities in sectors like finance, technology, and healthcare, enables Indian professionals to secure high-paying jobs.
- Entrepreneurial spirit: Many Indians in Singapore are entrepreneurs, contributing to economic growth and their own financial prosperity.
- Supportive Policies: Singapore's education system is designed to assist students from diverse backgrounds, reducing dropout rates and promoting high educational participation rates.
- Social Cohesion: The Indian community is known for its strong social cohesion, creating a supportive environment for educational and economic advancement.
- Government Initiatives: The Singaporean government offers policies and programs to promote social mobility and education for all residents, ensuring that communities like the Indians have access to resources for progress.
Together, these factors have contributed significantly to the remarkable progress of the Indian community in Singapore across education, income, and school dropout rates. Keep shining, Singaporean Indians!
- In the realm of finance and business, Singapore's growing economy and high-demand sectors like technology and healthcare have offered Indian professionals lucrative careers, contributing to an increase in median household income.
- The Indian community's dedication to education and self-development, coupled with a focus on personal growth, has led to a surge in the number of degree holders, with about four in ten Indians holding degrees in 2020.
- Politics and general news have showcased the Indian community's rising influence in Singapore, with the PAP fielding several Indian candidates in the upcoming election and members, such as Dinesh Vasu Dash, Hamid Razak, and Jagathishwaran Rajo, poised to make a significant impact in government.
