STEER India 2025: Community and Cultural Development in a Transformative Journey
In June 2025, seven students from the National University of Singapore (NUS) took part in a nine-day educational trip to New Delhi and Agra, India, as part of the Study Trips for Engagement and Enrichment (STEER) programme. This initiative, overseen by Associate Professor Loh Wai Lam from the NUS Global Relations Office, aimed to expose students to the cultural and academic landscape of India. The programme was organized collaboratively with the Office of International Affairs and Global Initiatives at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU).
Engaging Activities
During the trip, students engaged in various activities, including classroom sessions, site visits, and interactions with local communities. These experiences offered insights into the interplay between community development and cultural expression in India’s diverse social context.
Academic Learning at JGU
A significant component of the programme involved a series of lectures at JGU, which addressed the historical, social, and economic factors influencing community development in India. Additionally, a visit to the Constitution Museum allowed students to learn about the development of the Indian Constitution following independence. This experience resonated with students, such as Kuo Tsung Hsun, a Business Administration undergraduate, who gained a deeper understanding of the importance of democracy in India.
Cultural Exploration
The programme also explored the ongoing influence of the caste system, despite its legal abolition. Students analyzed the preservation of indigenous languages as crucial for sustaining community identity and examined traditional ecological knowledge that supports sustainable development initiatives.
Village Interaction
An impactful experience occurred during a visit to a village in Sonipat, where students interacted with members of a local self-help group. They listened to the stories of women entrepreneurs who navigated social and financial challenges to establish their businesses, emphasizing themes of resilience and aspiration.
Diplomatic Insights
The students met with Singaporean diplomats at the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in New Delhi, gaining insights into the role of diplomacy in India.
Historical Site Visits
Historical site visits were an integral part of the programme, including tours of Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Taj Mahal, highlighting the architectural significance of India’s Mughal heritage.
Reflections on the Experience
Upon returning, the students reflected on their experiences, noting significant lessons and personal growth throughout the trip. They expressed appreciation for the opportunity, describing it as a meaningful combination of academic learning and cultural engagement.
Conclusion
Overall, the STEER programme provided students with a transformative understanding of India’s cultural and community dynamics through first-hand experiences and immersive learning.
(Source: NUS News)
