Celebrating 120 Years of Diversity and Excellence at the National University of Singapore
On April 16, 2025, the National University of Singapore (NUS) observed its 120th anniversary with an event called “NUS120: Our Global Story” held at the Central Library Atrium. The celebration included performances reflecting the cultural diversity within the university community.
Notable Performances
One notable performance featured Ni Komang Ananda Gayatri, a first-year Master of Arts student, who presented a traditional Balinese dance in an elaborate gold costume. She later performed another dance inspired by Bornean traditions in a vibrant silken outfit, showcasing the rich cultural heritage inherent in the student body.
Ananda shared her experiences, noting the role of dance in connecting cultures. Her video entry in the NUS People Stories Showcase, which collected over 30 submissions from students, staff, and alumni, won second prize.
Event Highlights
The event attracted more than 700 attendees and included a food bazaar offering international cuisines. Performances ranged from traditional Japanese dance to modern street dance by the NUS Korean Cultural Interest Group. NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye acknowledged the university’s accomplishments and emphasized the pride Singaporeans have in the institution.
Workshops and Proceeds
In addition to performances, the event featured workshops by the youth organization Fashion Parade, focusing on activities such as batik, block-printing, and Chinese knot-making. Proceeds from the event exceeded S$10,500, which will be allocated to NUS Giving’s Enhanced Financial Aid Scheme to support students with hostel accommodations and potential overseas exchange programs.
Community Connection
Participants conveyed feelings of identity and belonging within the NUS community. Noof Abdullah Saad Shaif, an instructor at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, reflected on her experiences in Yemen and described NUS as a home for her.
Diversity and Global Perspectives
Ananda highlighted the international network at NUS, which includes students from 120 different nationalities. This diversity enhances classroom discussions and offers varied perspectives on global issues, particularly in the arts.
Transformative Impact
Chu Singfat, an Honorary Fellow from the NUS Business School, shared insights regarding the transformative impact of NUS, drawing parallels with the evolution of his home country, Mauritius. He emphasized the importance of diverse viewpoints in driving innovation and success in collaborative environments.
Conclusion
The anniversary event not only celebrated the university’s history but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering diversity, collaboration, and excellence in education.
(Source: NUS News)
