{"id":175,"date":"2020-09-02T11:55:18","date_gmt":"2020-09-02T11:55:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fass.nus.edu.sg\/swk\/?page_id=175"},"modified":"2023-01-06T17:33:30","modified_gmt":"2023-01-06T09:33:30","slug":"news","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/fass.nus.edu.sg\/swk\/news\/","title":{"rendered":"News"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

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Financial capability training for social workers in Singapore: Towards more effective practice<\/a><\/h3>
09 April 2026 <\/div>In Singapore, the landscape of financial capability is increasingly critical, especially for low-income individuals and families grappling with overwhelming debt. As financial institutions and markets evolve, the complexities of managing finances have intensified, leaving vulnerable populations at a greater risk of financial instability. Oftentimes, social workers assigned to assist financially vulnerable individuals lack adequate training in financial matters.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn \u2018Financial capability training for social workers in Singapore: Towards more effective practice\u2019 (<\/span>International Social Work<\/span><\/i>, 2023), V Deepa (NUS Next Age Institute), Associate Professor Corinne Ghoh (NUS Social Work), and Margaret Sherraden (Washington University in St. Louis) explore the development and pilot testing of a comprehensive financial capability curriculum tailored for social work education.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe curriculum aims to improve the financial well-being of vulnerable families by building on financial capability theory, a concept that combines a person\u2019s ability to act (financial knowledge and skills) with their opportunity to act (inclusion) in ways that improve financial functioning and financial wellbeing. Through focus group (FG) discussions conducted in two phases, the researchers gathered feedback from social workers to gain an in-depth understanding of the curriculum's strengths and limitations. The FG discussions allowed trainees to provide suggestions for enhancements, which were instrumental in further refining the curriculum.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe researchers found that while social workers understood the relevance of financial capability training, many felt unprepared to address the complex financial challenges their clients faced.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nMerely imparting financial management concepts was insufficient. Instead, a nuanced understanding of the systemic issues affecting low-income families would allow for a more effective integration of financial capability into practice. Moreover, the study revealed that social workers should be actively engaged in advocacy and community-level interventions, as many financial challenges cannot be resolved at the individual level alone.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs Singapore grapples with persistent financial inequality, it becomes increasingly crucial to equip social workers with the skills necessary to effectively tackle these challenges. A comprehensive and well-structured training program empowers social workers, enhancing their confidence and competence in serving their communities. This, in turn, ensures that financial stability and well-being are attainable for all Singaporeans, ultimately fostering a more equitable society.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nRead the article <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16441\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1254\"]\"\" Photo: iStock\/bankrx[\/caption]<\/div><\/div>

2026 Distinguished Arts and Social Sciences Alumni Awards Honouring graduates who have dedicated their lives to the arts, diplomacy and social services<\/a><\/h3>
02 April 2026 <\/div>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_33786\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" This year's FASS Distinguished Arts and Social Sciences Alumni Award recipients (from left to right): Ms Lim Hai Yen, Mr Ashok Mirpuri, and Ms Ang Bee Lian, whose careers have shaped the arts, diplomacy, and social policy in Singapore and beyond.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

What does it mean to make an impact with a degree in the arts and social sciences?<\/p>\r\n

The possibilities are vast. Graduates of the\u00a0NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences<\/a>\u00a0go on to shape public policy, deepen understanding of societies and cultures, strengthen communities, and contribute to the creative and intellectual life of Singapore and beyond.<\/p>\r\n

In a world where technology and artificial intelligence are transforming lives faster than any generation has experienced, the insights and skills cultivated through the arts and social sciences help us navigate change, understand people, and shape a future that serves society.<\/p>\r\n

Each year, FASS recognises alumni who exemplify this spirit of impact through the FASS Distinguished Arts and Social Sciences Alumni Awards, honouring graduates whose work reflects the enduring value of the humanities and social sciences.<\/p>\r\n

The awards, held on 1 April, honoured three distinguished alumni whose careers have shaped the arts, diplomacy and communities: Ms Lim Hai Yen (English Language and Chinese Studies '92), Mr Ashok Mirpuri (Political Science Hons '84), and Ms Ang Bee Lian (Social Work '77). Though their careers have unfolded in very different arenas, they share a common thread: a commitment to serving society and shaping the world around them.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_33785\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" (From left) NUS Chief Alumni Officer Ms Ovidia Lim-Rajaram, Mr Mirpuri, NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Dean Professor Lionel Wee, Ms Ang and Ms Lim at the awards ceremony held on 1 April 2026.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

Telling Singapore's stories through theatre
<\/strong>For playwright and director Ms Lim Hai Yen, theatre has long been a way to explore the rhythms, tensions and humour of everyday life in Singapore.\r\n

As Artistic Director of The ETCeteras, Ms Lim creates original theatrical works that reflect the Singaporean life - inspirations, aspirations and frustrations included. With a light-hearted and unfettered style, her sharp observations and in-depth contemplation are manifested in her satirical approach, which often results in multilingual comedies with a combination of wit, humour and a concern for social issues.<\/p>\r\n

In a theatre career spanning close to four decades, she has more than 40 original theatrical works to her name, including commissioned works like\u00a0Curtain Call<\/i>\u00a0(2021), presented by National Arts Council during pandemic times, and\u00a0Out of the Red Box, commissioned by the Singapore Heritage Festival<\/i>\u00a0in 2025 and written and directed by her.<\/p>\r\n

Beyond the stage, Ms Lim, a 2017 NUS Distinguished Alumni Service Award recipient, is also dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers through teaching playwriting and acting to students and community groups.<\/p>\r\n

As an author, Ms Lim has written books on theatre, parenting, marriage, travel and lifestyle.\u00a0 She is also a columnist and gives talks frequently to share her family values and promote positive vibes.\u00a0 Published in 2023,\u00a0For Better, For Worse<\/i>, a collection of essays Ms Lim had written from 2006 to 2022, won the second prize in Readers' Choice Award.<\/p>\r\n

Reflecting on her time at NUS, Ms Lim fondly recalls how her university years gave her the space to explore her passions - a foundation that would later shape her career.<\/p>\r\n

\"My years at NUS were a time when I could try many things - not just academic work, but activities I was passionate about. I got to experiment, to dream, and most importantly, to be myself. This is a lesson I still carry today: Be yourself, because nobody else can be you,\" she said.<\/p>\r\n

Ms Lim graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Chinese Studies and English Language from NUS in 1992 and receiving her Master of Arts in Directing from Goldsmiths College, University of London in 2002.<\/p>\r\nRepresenting Singapore on the world stage
<\/strong>While theatre connects people to local stories, diplomacy allows individuals to connect Singapore to the world. Mr Ashok Mirpuri's career has been defined by representing Singapore abroad and applying his expertise in international relations across public and private sectors.\r\n

Mr Mirpuri started his career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1984 right after graduation from NUS. He has served in a wide range of diplomatic roles across the region and beyond - spending about 30 of his 40 years of diplomatic service overseas. His postings included stints in Jakarta, Indonesia where he served both as Political First Secretary and later as Ambassador to Indonesia, as well as appointments as Singapore's High Commissioner to Australia and Malaysia.<\/p>\r\n

In 2012, he was appointed Singapore's Ambassador to the United States, a role he held for more than a decade - making him the second-longest serving Singapore ambassador to Washington. During his tenure in Washington, Singapore-US relations continued to deepen in areas such as trade, security cooperation and technological collaboration.<\/p>\r\n

Mr Mirpuri joined Temasek in 2023 as Head of International Policy and Governance at Temasek International, where he now contributes his experience in global affairs to the organisation's international engagement.<\/p>\r\n

Singapore's growth story - particularly the grit and determination of the pioneer generation - is a constant source of inspiration to Mr Mirpuri.<\/p>\r\n

\"When I look back, I am inspired to take those early lessons on overcoming adversity and difficulty and take Singapore forward even as the world gets complicated,\" he said.<\/p>\r\n

When asked for advice for the younger generation, Mr Mirpuri emphasised the need for curiosity to learn and desire to connect and network with people. \"The world is far bigger than your academic pursuits - take every opportunity to expand your world,\" he urged.<\/p>\r\n

Mr Mirpuri graduated with Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours) in Political Science from NUS in 1984 and holds a Master of Arts from the University of London's School of Oriental & African Studies under a Raffles Scholarship.<\/p>\r\nStrengthening communities through social policy
<\/strong>From shaping Singapore's relations on the global stage, attention turns next to the equally vital work of nurturing and strengthening communities at home. Just as Mr Mirpuri connects nations through diplomacy, Ms Ang Bee Lian has spent her career building networks of care and opportunity within society - demonstrating that meaningful impact can happen both internationally and in the lives of individuals.\r\n

Ms Ang began her journey in the public service as a young Child Protection Officer, eager to apply what she had learnt in her social work training to help vulnerable individuals and families. Throughout her career, she helped shape Singapore's social service landscape through key leadership roles, including Director-General of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Social and Family Development and Chief Executive Officer of the National Council of Social Service.<\/p>\r\n

Amongst her career highlights are the opportunity to start the National Volunteer Centre in Singapore and set up the groundwork for various schemes and programmes and scholarships to develop a manpower pipeline for the social service sector.<\/p>\r\n

Under her leadership, Singapore's social service sector saw major strides in integrated service delivery, workforce development and evidence-informed policymaking to improve the quality and effectiveness of social services as society and communities evolve.<\/p>\r\n

Ms Ang says knowing her purpose, and staying anchored by it, turned even the most mundane tasks into something meaningful and helped her through difficult times.<\/p>\r\n

\"If you set out wanting to make a difference in people's lives, you sometimes wonder why you are doing something as simple as data entry,\" she said. \"But when you step back and see the bigger picture, you realise the value of data collection and see how it is necessary to initiate system changes and enhance service delivery for the people you serve.\"<\/p>\r\n

Beyond policy and administration, she has also been a mentor and thought leader within the sector, encouraging social workers to seek out opportunities to stretch themselves beyond comfort zones to grow.<\/p>\r\n

\"Through my years in the Public Service, I have always practised continuous learning and development - both for myself and for others. The world never stagnates so neither should we.\"<\/p>\r\n

Her contributions have helped strengthen safeguarding systems for vulnerable populations while building a more professional and resilient social service workforce.<\/p>\r\n

Ms Ang is currently Senior Advisor and Commissioner for the Maintenance of Parents (Singapore)\u00a0at the Ministry of Social and Family Development, and continues to mentor young aspiring social workers at NUS and the Singapore University of Social Sciences.<\/p>\r\n

Ms Ang graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Singapore in 1977 and holds a Masters in Social Policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science.<\/p>\r\nThe enduring influence of a FASS education
<\/strong>Together, the achievements of this year's honourees illustrate the many ways the humanities and social sciences can shape society.\r\n

From designing social policies and strengthening international relationships to enriching the cultural imagination, their work reflects the breadth of impact that FASS graduates continue to have in Singapore and beyond.<\/p>\r\n

Their journeys stand as a reminder that the arts and social sciences are not only fields of study, but powerful tools for understanding people, building connections and shaping a better world.<\/p>\r\n<\/article>\r\n

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This story\u00a0first appeared in <\/em>NUSnews<\/a> on 2 April 2026.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<\/div><\/div>

Supervision of Supervisory Practice: From Idea to Practice<\/a><\/h3>
19 March 2026 <\/div>

With the social work profession expanding into diverse areas such as medical care, community engagement, and government organisations, the demand for effective supervision has grown significantly. Despite this, research on supervisory practices remains limited. Existing literature emphasises the need for a holistic supervisory approach that goes beyond technical and clinical competencies, incorporating emotional support and reflective practices. The article \u2018Supervision of Supervisory Practice: From Idea to Practice\u2019 (International Social Work<\/em>, 2022) by Associate Professor Peace Yuh Ju Wong (NUS Social Work), Dr Kang Li Wong (City University of Hong Kong), Associate Professor Corinne Ghoh (NUS Social Work), and Dr Marcus Yu Lung Chiu (City University of Hong Kong) addresses this gap.<\/p>\r\n

The researchers evaluated the Supervision of Supervisory Practice (SOSp) programme implemented in Singaporean Family Service Centres (FSCs), focusing on its impacts on both supervisors and their supervisees to enhance the overall practice of social work. The SOSp programme uses goal setting, as well as live and video recording sessions, to support and educate supervisees in their work with clients. Furthermore, it aims to develop supervisors' competencies across various practice contexts, such as healthcare, child welfare, and mental health fields. Each of these contexts presents distinct challenges and requires tailored supervisory approaches to effectively support supervisees. Ultimately, the programme seeks to enhance the skills and confidence of supervisors and supervisees, thereby improving the quality of social work practice and outcomes for clients.<\/p>\r\n

The study found that the SOSp programme helped supervisors acquire new knowledge and skills, expand their perspectives through the reflecting team, and provided opportunities to receive feedback on their supervision styles. Supervisees also experienced professional growth due to the collaborative and reflective approach of their supervisors, which will aid them in their future careers. The development and implementation of the SOSp programme is therefore essential for maximising the efficacy of social work professionals. It should thus be undertaken by relevant professional associations and organisations, such as the Singapore Association of Social Workers (SASW), government bodies like the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), and educational institutions offering social work programs.<\/p>\r\n

Read the article here<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16141\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1183\"]\"\" Photo: iStock\/imtmphoto[\/caption]<\/div><\/div>

NUS Open House 2026: From the future of learning to the pulse of student life<\/a><\/h3>
14 March 2026 <\/div>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18154\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" With programme booths, talks, special classes, campus tours, and student performances across University Town, NUS Open House 2026 offered visitors a comprehensive showcase of the breadth of NUS' degree offerings and its vibrant campus life.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n
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Prospective students turned out in force for the NUS Open House 2026, one of the University's largest events of the year, with some 21,500 visitors packing University Town on 7 March for a first-hand look at the University's distinctive academic programmes and its vibrant campus community.<\/p>\r\n

Featuring an extensive line-up of programme booths, faculty talks, special classes, and campus tours, this year's event - which spotlighted NUS' suite of AI-focused programmes, cutting-edge innovations, and a sampling of student performances - also marked a new chapter for\u00a0NUS Law<\/a>, which hosted its entire showcase at UTown for the first time since\u00a0moving to Kent Ridge<\/a>\u00a0in January.<\/p>\r\n

Complementing the full-day showcase was a six-day virtual segment featuring online talks on global and career opportunities, as well as information sessions by\u00a0NUS Business School<\/a>,\u00a0NUS Pharmacy<\/a>, and the\u00a0Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

\"I found the programme talks and student sharing sessions especially enjoyable and informative because they provided real insights into student life and the academic experience at NUS,\" said Suriya Selvarayar, a Ngee Ann Polytechnic student who is interested in applying to technology-related programmes.<\/p>\r\n<\/article>\r\n

New \"AI+X\" degrees for emerging careers
<\/strong>At a panel led by NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Professor Aaron Thean entitled \"Earth, Space, Data and AI: Degrees that Launch You into the Future\", visitors were introduced to NUS' expanding slate of \"AI+X\" programmes, designed to integrate AI across diverse disciplines to meet the demand for new careers and fields driven by the technology.\r\n

Its latest effort is the\u00a0new Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Geospatial Intelligence Cross-Disciplinary Programme (GIX)<\/a>, the first bachelor's degree of its kind in Asia, which welcomes its first cohort in August 2026. Co-hosted by the Department of Geography at the\u00a0College of Humanities and Sciences (CHS)<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0NUS Computing<\/a>, it will train students to synthesise earth, space, and environmental data - such as those collected by satellites, drones and mobile devices - with AI tools to tackle challenges in urban planning, transportation, and climate change. With courses spanning geography and computer science, and an emphasis on integrated problem-solving, the programme opens doors to sectors including smart cities and sustainable development, as well as the space and satellite industries.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18149\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" Prospective students had the chance to hear from NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Professor Aaron Thean (third from left) at a talk on NUS' suite of AI-focused degree programmes. Joining him were (from left to right) Associate Professor Peter Chan from the College of Design and Engineering, Associate Professor Kan Min-Yen from NUS Computing, Associate Professor Wang Yi-Chen from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and Professor Gary Ang from NUS Enterprise.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

Three other \"AI+X\" degrees were also highlighted. Admitting its second intake in August, the\u00a0Bachelor of Computing in Artificial Intelligence<\/a>\u00a0provides students with deep technical expertise, preparing them to design solutions to real-world problems using AI systems and models, grounded in a critical understanding of AI governance.<\/p>\r\n

Formerly known as Information Systems, the\u00a0revamped Bachelor of Computing in Business Artificial Intelligence Systems<\/a>\u00a0integrates AI systems with business expertise to solve enterprise challenges and drive digital innovation.<\/p>\r\n

Also welcoming its second cohort in August is the\u00a0College of Design and Engineering<\/a>'s (CDE)\u00a0Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Machine Intelligence<\/a>\u00a0programme. Combining hardware, software, and AI, it prepares students to lead the applications of AI-enabled robotics - systems capable of sophisticated decisions and learning from their environments - in markets that are fast expanding beyond manufacturing to sectors such as healthcare, agriculture and logistics.<\/p>\r\n

Prof Thean emphasised that while NUS seeks to produce graduates who can capitalise on AI, the human element remains essential. \"New jobs and careers are emerging, and the question is how we prepare for them,\" he added, noting that the ultimate goal is for graduates to be adept at using the tools while possessing the critical thinking, decision-making and creativity to excel in the AI era.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18148\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" NUS President Professor Tan Eng Chye (second from right) visited the various booths, including the CDE's showcase of its innovative projects and models.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

Future-ready engineering\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Aside from showcasing the new robotics and machine intelligence degree, CDE delivered a comprehensive overview of the available programmes tailored to the evolving landscape - from\u00a0Mechanical Engineering<\/a>\u00a0to the\u00a0Minor in Artificial Intelligence (Design and Engineering)<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

The Mechanical Engineering talk explored AI's applications in a wide range of industries, from aeronautics and urban transportation to sustainable energy and future cities. Students were given an overview of their career prospects, ranging from thermal R&D engineers to process development scientists.<\/p>\r\n

Another exciting new programme highlighted was the Artificial Intelligence minor. In the light of AI's position as a national priority in Singapore, prospective students got a snapshot of the industry landscape, as well as how the minor's industry-focused approach provides hands-on learning experiences in fundamental AI concepts like machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18147\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" The interactive Innovation and Robotics Showcase drew visitors to experience the cutting-edge technological innovations created by NUS faculty and students that are transforming our world for the better.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n<\/article>\r\n

Innovations in action
<\/strong>An interactive experience awaited visitors at the Innovation and Robotics Showcase, which featured futuristic projects by faculty and students at CDE,\u00a0NUS College<\/a>\u00a0(NUSC), and the\u00a0Centre for Quantum Technologies<\/a>\u00a0(CQT) that exemplify the spirit of cutting-edge innovation at NUS.<\/p>\r\n

CDE presented an array of technologies making an impact in the real world, from virtual reality simulations that help users identify safety hazards in the construction industry to robot dogs that assist in search and rescue operations in hazardous terrain.<\/p>\r\n

NUSC's \"Gut Guard\", a gamified learning\u00a0Impact Experience<\/a> project that tackles misconceptions about gut health, as well as CQT's technologies developed for Singapore's National Quantum-Safe Network testbed, were also on display.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18146\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" The College of Humanities and Sciences unveiled a refreshed programme booth experience, grouping related disciplines into thematic zones to help prospective students better understand each discipline and how they can be meaningfully combined within the college's flexible curriculum.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

Exploring real-world connections at CHS
<\/strong>CHS, which brings together the\u00a0Faculty of Science<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences<\/a>, traded individual programme booths for immersive thematic zones, allowing visitors to understand how diverse disciplines converge in the real world as part of a new approach that brought its interdisciplinary ethos to life.\r\n

In \"Understanding People and Societies\", which linked anthropology with sociology and psychology, they explored the role of these social sciences in understanding human behaviour, while \"Science in our Lives\" demonstrated the interconnected fields of chemical, biological and pharmaceutical science in contributing to better therapies.<\/p>\r\n

Underscoring this approach was \"Beyond the Textbook: Play, Policy, and Plants\", a panel which gathered faculty members from three interdisciplinary courses to discuss timely issues such as the importance of play in learning, the multifaceted aspects of drug regulation, and the study of plants as a lens for examining Southeast Asia's ecology, communities and livelihoods.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18145\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" Apart from introducing its new campus at University Town, Law hosted an engaging line-up of talks, moot court demonstrations and masterclasses to welcome prospective students.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\nA new chapter at UTown
<\/strong>Following its\u00a0relocation from Bukit Timah<\/a>\u00a0to Kent Ridge, NUS Law offered prospective students a one-stop shop of what the faculty had to offer, with mooting sessions, thought-provoking masterclasses, and talks that highlighted its world-class faculty and illustrious alumni network.\r\n

Unlike previous years, visitors no longer needed to shuttle between both campuses to explore all the Open House activities, said Mr Justin Tan, NUS Law's Vice-Dean (Student Affairs), who gave a welcome talk to prospective students. Remarking on the vibrant setting of its newly upgraded campus, he said, \"I think (visitors) will really love the fact that there are literally thousands of people living in UTown's apartment blocks, all within a few minutes' walk of our new campus. This translates to endless possibilities for a fantastic undergraduate life!\"<\/p>\r\n<\/article>\r\n

Beyond the books
<\/strong>NUSC<\/a>, the University's honours college, held sessions showcasing its\u00a0Global Experience<\/a>\u00a0(GEx) programme, which immerses students in 14 overseas sites for a month to engage deeply with their themes. In GEx New York, students examine its identity as a global city, investigating its urban development and cultural heritage through interactions with high-level diplomats, non-government organisations, and industry professionals.\r\n

NUS Nursing<\/a>\u00a0held special classes where users learned empathetic communication in palliative care by conversing with an AI chatbot, and showcased its\u00a0new Concurrent Degree Programme<\/a>, which combines the Bachelor of Science (Nursing) (Honours) with the Master of Science (Biomedical Informatics).<\/p>\r\n

Meanwhile,\u00a0NUS Medicine<\/a> offered a hands-on look at the future of medical education through clinical simulations, virtual reality stations, and insightful talks on its curriculum.<\/p>\r\nInside scoop on residential life
<\/strong>Through talks, booths, and guided tours, Masters, Resident Fellows, and student leaders from the Residential Colleges, Halls, and Houses offered prospective students insights on the culture of their residences, the partnership between resident fellows and residents, and the vast array of student-led initiatives that foster vibrancy, community spirit, and inclusivity.\r\n

NUS' newest hostel, the sports-themed\u00a0Valour House<\/a>, highlighted its key pillars of courage, strength, and resilience - characteristics not just of athletes but of students - to demonstrate its culture of supporting sporting achievements and encouraging residents to step out of their comfort zones.<\/p>\r\nVibrancy of NUS student life
<\/strong>A dynamic line-up of performances and showcases, spotlighting some of NUS' finest talents in the performing arts, was presented by the various student clubs and interest groups at the Student Village. From upbeat, catchy tunes by\u00a0NUS Fingerstyle Guitar<\/a>\u00a0and a capella groups\u00a0NUS Resonance<\/a>,\u00a0RHythm<\/a>\u00a0from Raffles Hall, and\u00a0Eusoff Chorapella<\/a>\u00a0from\u00a0Eusoff Hall<\/a>\u00a0to skilful renditions by\u00a0Helix House<\/a>'s Helix Band and\u00a0Sheares Hall<\/a>'s Sheares Band, visitors were treated to a glimpse into the vibrant student experience at NUS beyond academic pursuits.<\/article>\r\n

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This story\u00a0first appeared in <\/em>NUSnews<\/a> on 13 March 2026.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<\/div><\/div>

Financial capability training for social workers in Singapore: Towards more effective practice<\/a><\/h3>
12 March 2026 <\/div>

The age of financialisation has seen the emergence of a wide array of transformative financial products and services, such as digital banking applications and various types of investments. For the underprivileged, there is little margin for error when making financial decisions, due to their low incomes and capital. These individuals often require the assistance of social workers to secure and improve their financial situations. However, social workers frequently receive minimal exposure to financial concepts and practices in their training. The article \u2018Financial Capability Training for Social Workers in Singapore: Towards More Effective Practice\u2019 (International Social Work<\/em>, 2024) by V Deepa (NUS Next Age Institute), Associate Professor Corinne Ghoh (NUS Social Work), and Professor Margaret Sherraden (Washington University in St. Louis) examines the development and pilot testing of a financial curriculum designed for social work education and training in Singapore so as to enhance the financial well-being of the vulnerable.<\/p>\r\n

The initiative, titled Financial Capability, was based on contributions from dozens of scholars and social work practitioners through focus group (FG) discussions and is backed by 30 years of research. The curriculum was piloted by trainees, most of whom were working with financially vulnerable clients, with around half having no background in financial literacy training. Through FG discussions on curriculum development and pilot training, researchers found that most social work clients have difficulty managing their finances. However, clients often have little opportunity to address long-term financial problems because their focus is on short-term financial hardships. The tension between the importance of financial capability and the difficulty of addressing it led to several recommendations.<\/p>\r\n

Firstly, practitioners could receive foundational financial capability training during their university education, as they tend to have limited time for training once they begin working. Secondly, the curriculum needs to be simpler and more user-friendly, with straightforward tools for workers to assess their clients' financial conditions easily. Social workers could also use this curriculum to identify clients at risk of financial issues and help prevent these issues from escalating into crises. Overall, the research demonstrates the potential for a viable financial capability curriculum, presenting a systemic solution to empower social workers in managing financial challenges their clients face.<\/p>\r\n

Read the article here<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_16248\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1254\"]\"\" Photo: iStock\/yongtick[\/caption]<\/div><\/div>

New Centre for Computational Social Science and Humanities at NUS to advance interdisciplinary research on complex societal challenges<\/a><\/h3>
05 March 2026 <\/div>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18110\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" Present at the launch of the Centre for Computational Social Science and Humanities at NUS today were (from left) CSSH Deputy Director Assoc Prof Dandan Qiao from NUS School of Computing; CSSH Co-Director Prof Atreyi Kankanhalli from NUS School of Computing; Prof Tulika Mitra, Dean of NUS School of Computing; Prof Liu Bin, NUS Deputy President (Research and Technology); Prof Lionel Wee, Dean of NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences; CSSH Co-Director Prof Peter Millican from NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences; and Assoc Prof Miguel Escobar Varela from NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

A new research centre at the National University of Singapore (NUS) is bringing together data science, AI and computational methods with deep insights from social sciences and humanities to better understand complex social phenomena and develop solutions to pressing societal challenges. By combining technological innovation with human insight, the Centre for Computational Social Science and Humanities (CSSH) aims to generate research that improves lives, strengthens institutions, preserves cultural knowledge, and shapes more inclusive and resilient societies in Singapore and beyond.<\/p>\r\n

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Officially launched today, CSSH is the first in Singapore to systematically bring together computational social science and the humanities within a single centre to bridge research, policy and real-world applications.<\/p>\r\n

The Centre draws on expertise across disciplines including computing, new media, linguistics, geography, public policy and healthcare, amongst others. This interdisciplinary foundation enables CSSH to examine how digital technologies intersect with social systems, such as assessing the societal implications of AI-enabled platforms, using digital tools to help preserve Singapore's cultural heritage, and strengthening digital literacy in vulnerable communities.<\/p>\r\n

NUS Deputy President (Research and Technology) Professor Liu Bin said, \"Rapid advances in digital technologies and AI are transforming our world. But technological breakthroughs are only as valuable as the difference they make to peoples' lives. CSSH reflects NUS' commitment to ensuring that innovation translates to tangible improvements in how we live, work and build stronger communities. By integrating computational methods with social science and humanities, the Centre will help translate research insights into policies and practices that deliver real-world impact.\"<\/p>\r\n

She added that the Centre complements Singapore's broader push for innovative, responsible harnessing of technology and AI which emphasises that progress should be not only technically advanced, but trusted, inclusive and grounded in real social needs.<\/p>\r\n

Driving real-world impact through interdisciplinary innovation<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

CSSH is led by Co-Directors Professor Atreyi Kankanhalli from the\u00a0NUS School of Computing<\/a>\u00a0and Professor Peter Millican from the\u00a0NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences<\/a>. The Centre supports both seed funding for emerging ideas and larger projects, all designed to generate real-world impact.<\/p>\r\n

Prof Kankanhalli said, \"What distinguishes CSSH is our ability to study human behaviour, institutions and societies at a scale and depth that was not previously possible. By combining computational methods with rich domain expertise in the social sciences and humanities, we can uncover patterns, test ideas, and generate evidence that directly informs policy and practice. Our goal is not just to analyse social problems, but to help shape systems that work better for people.\"<\/p>\r\n

Since beginning operations in the second half of 2024, CSSH has embarked on more than 50 interdisciplinary projects involving 105 researchers from across NUS and their external collaborators. The projects demonstrate the breadth of its work - from AI-enabled analysis of social media impacts to digital preservation of historical archives.<\/p>\r\n

Amongst the major research projects currently being undertaken by CSSH is one titled \"Computational Social Simulations for Aiding Policy Design\", led by Prof Kankanhalli. In this five-year project, researchers from NUS and three other local universities are collaborating to develop an AI-driven social simulation platform for policymakers to help test and refine policy interventions before they are rolled out.<\/p>\r\n

Using large language models (LLMs), the platform will model diverse public personas to enable policymakers to conduct swift preliminary testing of policy ideas. The simulations will complement traditional research methods by reducing the frequency of costly, time-consuming large-scale surveys and field studies during early policy development, while retaining real-world validation and community engagement at critical decision points. CSSH Deputy Director Associate Professor Dandan Qiao from the NUS School of Computing is also contributing her expertise to the project.<\/p>\r\n

Another project titled \"The Jawi AI Project\", led by NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Associate Professor Miguel Escobar Varela, harnesses AI to enable large-scale transliteration and analysis of Jawi texts. Early Malay-language newspapers in Singapore, published between 1870 and 1970 were written in Jawi, a script few can read today.<\/p>\r\n

In collaboration with the National Library Board (NLB), the team comprising local and foreign experts is transforming thousands of archived pages into searchable Malay text, significantly expanding the range of materials available at NLB's digitised archives. Assoc Prof Escobar Varela, who is also Deputy Director at CSSH, noted that the project could significantly expand research into Malay-language journalism and public debate in the region, broadening how Singapore's history is understood and taught.<\/p>\r\n

Prof Millican highlighted that a core mission of CSSH is to break down the walls between disciplines. By connecting humanities and social science researchers with computing and data science experts, the Centre fosters collaborations that neither field could achieve alone. \"Many of today's biggest challenges demand both deep specialist insight and serious technical firepower\", he explained, \"whether they involve untangling complex social issues, tackling health crises, anticipating future problems, or building the tools to address these. CSSH provides a natural home for such interdisciplinary conversations.\"<\/p>\r\n

He added that the Centre looks forward to developing more projects addressing societal challenges to which computational insights can make the greatest difference. Focus areas include AI and emerging technologies, sustainability and environmental policy, population trends and demographic change, public health and social care, and the preservation and understanding of history and cultural heritage.<\/p>\r\n<\/article>\r\n

\r\n

This story\u00a0first appeared in <\/em>NUSnews<\/a> on 4 March 2026.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<\/div><\/div>

New book by NUS Social Work\u2019s Dr S Vasoo offers insights on delivering efficient and impactful social services<\/a><\/h3>
15 February 2026 <\/div>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18076\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" Dr S Vasoo (third from left) presents a copy of his new book to Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for Education and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration (centre), at the launch. Also pictured are book contributors Ms Angelica Ang Ting Yi (far left); Associate Professor Vincent Ng, Singapore University of Social Sciences (second from left); Mr Ang Hao Yao, National Kidney Foundation and Credit Counselling Singapore (third from right); Dr Leong Chan-Hoong, Nanyang Technological University (second from right); and Dr Isabel Sim, Non-Profit Innovation Pte Ltd (far right).<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

A new book edited by social service pioneer and NUS Social Work<\/a>\u00a0Emeritus Professor Dr S Vasoo that highlights the role of professional social work in strengthening the delivery of cost-efficient, accountable and impactful social services was launched on 11 February 2026.<\/p>\r\n

\"Management Issues in Social Services\" assembles contributions from experts in the sector to address key management challenges faced. It explores topics such as organisational change, financial management, service evaluation and stewardship, offering practical guidance for strengthening social service delivery in Singapore and across the region.<\/p>\r\n

The book draws on discussions from the NUS Social Work's Social Service Leaders Exchange Programme, as well as contributions by scholar-practitioners. Established by the Ee Peng Liang Memorial Fund and supported by local philanthropic groups, the exchange programme aims to promote philanthropy and social development. These insights contributed to the book's focus on leadership, organisational management, and effective social service delivery.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18075\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" NUS President Prof Tan Eng Chye (extreme left) in conversation with Dr S Vasoo and Mr Lee before the book launch.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

The launch event was held at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House at NUS, bringing together leaders from social service agencies, academics, and practitioners across the sector, with Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for Education and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration, as the Guest-of-Honour.<\/p>\r\n

Empowering social service leaders to build organisations that will grow and adapt to change
<\/strong>Speaking at the launch, Dr Vasoo highlighted the need for organisations to anticipate changes in social issues, respond proactively, and nurture a new generation of social work talent. He hopes that by sharing experiences and lessons from across Asia, the book will encourage social service leaders to build stronger institutions that remain relevant and responsive to the communities they serve.<\/p>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_18074\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1024\"]\"\" The book \"Management Issues in Social Services\" delves into major key management issues in social service organisations, such as organisational change and development, measuring the social impact of programmes and financial stewardship for charities.<\/strong>[\/caption]\r\n

\"Social services can only be as effective as the systems that support them. This book draws closer attention to management practices that strengthen accountability, adaptability and leadership in the sector. As social needs evolve and resources become tighter, organisations must be more forward-looking in how they plan and deliver services,\" said Dr Vasoo.<\/p>\r\n

Minister Lee said that the social issues Singapore faces have become increasingly complex, whether due to the challenges of ageing or the impact of social media and AI. He hopes that the book sparks rich discussions that would inspire new ideas and purposeful actions across the social service sector.<\/p>\r\n

\"The road ahead will be challenging, but we are confident that the social service sector in Singapore can continue to adapt, learn and respond with compassion, heart, and professionalism,\" said Minister Lee.<\/p>\r\n

More information about the book can be found at the publisher's website\u00a0here<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

Read the full press release\u00a0here<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n

\r\n

This story\u00a0first appeared in <\/em>NUSnews<\/a> on 14 February 2026.<\/em><\/p>\r\n<\/div><\/div>

It takes a \u201ckampung\u201d: Creating a sustainable ecosystem of care for everyone, by everyone<\/a><\/h3>
28 December 2025 <\/div>\r\n\r\n

[caption id=\"attachment_17942\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1920\"]\"\" The recent NUS SSR-TOUCH Conference 2025 aimed to advance conversations and strengthen sectoral capabilities in social service research, evidence-to-practice translation, sustainable collaborations, and impact measurement.<\/strong>[\/caption]<\/p>\r\n

There was a time when neighbours in villages or\u00a0kampungs<\/i>\u00a0kept an eye out for one another, shared food, and revelled in this shared sense of community and care.<\/p>\r\n

As Singapore stands on the brink of becoming a \"super-aged\" society, with one in five citizens set to be over 65 by 2026, bringing back the\u00a0kampung<\/i>\u00a0spirit, where everyone cares for everyone, might be the key to enabling healthy ageing here.<\/p>\r\n

\"This is neither a new formula for success, nor is there anything magical about it. I feel it is simply a resurrection or rejuvenation of our\u00a0kampung<\/i>\u00a0spirit in action, where residents take ownership of their own health and look out for one another, alongside professionals and volunteers,\" said Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development, and for Law.<\/p>\r\n

Speaking at the NUS SSR-TOUCH Conference, jointly organised by the NUS Social Service Research Centre (SSR) and TOUCH Community Services, Mr Chua said achieving positive health and well-being outcomes for all requires everyone's effort.<\/p>\r\n

\"Building a healthier Singapore that focuses on ageing well by going upstream, starting young, means all of us must pitch in: government, community organisations, family members, and individuals. We must all work together and play an active part in addressing social-health challenges,\" he added.<\/p>\r\n

Themed \"Sustained Well-Being in Future-Ready Communities\", the conference, held on 11-12 November 2025, brought together about 300 participants from academia, research, practice, and policymaking. The goal was to advance dialogue and strengthen sectoral capabilities in social service research, evidence-to-practice translation, sustainable collaborations, and impact measurement.<\/p>\r\n

Discussions focused on topics such as the use of technology and AI in social service planning and delivery, the importance of disability inclusion in building strong communities, and the challenges and opportunities for healthy longevity.<\/p>\r\n

Strengthening the caregiving circle<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

One key focus of the NUS SSR-TOUCH Conference was supporting caregivers, an essential part of the\u00a0kampung<\/i> ecosystem. Grandparents, in particular, were highlighted as important caregivers in the family structure.<\/p>\r\n

[caption id=\"attachment_17941\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1920\"]\"\" Ms June Sim (pictured standing), Group Head of TOUCH Caregivers Support Group, highlighted the various initiatives TOUCH has rolled out to support caregivers in the community.<\/strong>[\/caption]<\/p>\r\n

\"There's a need for much more research on respite for custodial grandparents and other things that we generally grant parents,\" said Professor Premchand Dommaraju, Associate Professor of Sociology and Director of the Master of Science in Applied Gerontology programme at Nanyang Technological University, who presented on the topic.<\/p>\r\n

He suggested policies such as childcare leave and flexible work arrangements for grandparents, citing Sweden's 2024 Parental Leave Reform as an example; the reform allows parents to transfer up to 45 days of paid parental leave to grandparents and other child caregivers.<\/p>\r\n

Ms June Sim, Group Head of TOUCH Caregivers Support Group, also underscored the need for proper support systems for caregivers. \"Instead of thinking of caregivers as care deliverers, I encourage you to think of caregivers as people with their own needs and aspirations,\" she said. Caregiver helplines, online communities, and raising awareness about caregiver challenges are necessary initiatives to support them, she added.<\/p>\r\n

Designing together for stronger neighbourhoods<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Another important area of discussion at the conference was the need to co-create programmes among stakeholders, as community initiatives cannot be created in silos.<\/p>\r\n

Professor John Eu-Li Wong, Co-Chair of the Health District @ Queenstown (HD@QT) Steering Committee, who spoke on the initiative at the conference, emphasised this point, saying, \"Things don't work if you develop something for somebody else. We must involve the person we're trying to develop for because that's how they own it, and that's how the chances of success are so much higher.\"<\/p>\r\n

HD@QT is a multi-stakeholder initiative spearheaded by NUS, National University Health System (NUHS), and the Housing & Development Board (HDB), bringing together partners from the public, private, and people sectors to develop lasting health and social solutions in Singapore.<\/p>\r\n

Among the projects that have made an impact are Happy Village @ Mei Ling, a community space staffed by a team of healthcare and social workers who work closely with residents to co-develop personalised care plans, and \"Come 4Tea Lah!\", a collaborative space where residents of all ages can come together to co-design community activities.<\/p>\r\n

Prof Wong described \"Come 4Tea Lah!\" as \"thriving\", with residents themselves spearheading activities such as \"yum cha\" (tea drinking) sessions with board games, sing-alongs, monthly birthday celebrations for all ages (funded by residents), and the Woofy Club, a 120-strong group of dog-lovers who meet regularly to share tips on obedience training. These initiatives are complemented by other regular activities such as educational talks by NUS and health screenings by NUHS.<\/p>\r\n

\"Our commitment is: not only do we collect the data, we also share it with the residents, and then we co-create the solution. We have them in the planning, and actually have them take a seat at the table in designing the intervention,\" said Prof Wong.<\/p>\r\n

[caption id=\"attachment_17940\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"1920\"]\"\" At lunchtime booths, participants learnt about research projects by local and overseas government agencies, non-profit organisations, and academic institutions on various community issues. These included the lived experiences of children in divorced families to the impact of mental health support for youths with anxiety and depression, and a savings-matching programme for low-income families.<\/strong>[\/caption]<\/p>\r\n

When carers get \"sandwiched\"<\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Many Singaporean adults today face the pressure of having to care for their elderly parents or family members while raising children of their own. This 'sandwiched generation' phenomenon can be particularly stressful for those with large families or low incomes.<\/p>\r\n

Associate Professor Noor Aisha bte Abdul Rahman from the Department of Malay Studies at the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences highlighted that Malay family units tend to be larger, often including three to four children and elderly relatives living in the same household.<\/p>\r\n

As such, Assoc Prof Noor Aisha said that Malay Muslim caregivers - particularly women - shoulder the heavy burden of being \"sandwiched caregivers\", juggling both eldercare and childcare. They often face concurrent challenges, such as health and well-being gaps, social isolation and burnout risk, as well as financial insecurity and employment barriers.<\/p>\r\n

\"Supporting them requires a coordinated effort,\" said Dr Ad Maulod, Principal Research Scientist at the Centre for Ageing Research & Education at Duke-NUS Medical School, who also presented on the topic. He cited raising health and well-being literacy, as well as quality and accessibility of health and social support services, as key to helping these sandwiched caregivers.<\/p>\r\n

To better support our communities, Assoc Prof Noor Aisha stressed that social support systems should be caregiver-centric - programmes should be co-created\u00a0with<\/i>\u00a0caregivers, rather than designed\u00a0for<\/i>\u00a0them - to ensure timely and meaningful support. Such an approach is essential for supporting sandwiched caregivers across all demographic groups in Singapore.<\/p>\r\n

Commenting on the success of the conference, Associate Professor Lee Jungup, SSR Co-Director said that the event has shown that it truly 'takes a kampung' to build a sustainable ecosystem of care - not just for older persons or caregivers, but for every generation in Singapore.<\/p>\r\n

\"By bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers and community partners, the NUS SSR-TOUCH Conference has created a shared space to listen, learn and co-create solutions grounded in real lives and real neighbourhoods. As we move towards a super-aged, future-ready society, our hope is that these collaborations will translate into concrete, community-led initiatives that sustain well-being for everyone, by everyone,\" said Assoc Prof Lee.<\/p>\r\n\t

\r\n

This story\u00a0first appeared in <\/em>NUSnews<\/a> on 12 December 2025.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div><\/div>

Time Poverty among the Young Working Poor: A Pathway from Low Wage to Psychological Well-being through Work-to-Family-Conflict\u00a0<\/a><\/h3>
18 December 2025 <\/div>The implementation of the enhanced Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme at the beginning of 2025 will benefit around half a million Singaporeans through increased payouts and expanded coverage. The income eligibility cap for low-wage workers was raised from S$2,500 to S$3,000 a month, providing greater financial support and fostering continued wage growth. During his Budget 2024 speech, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong noted that this adjustment ensures that lower-wage workers are continually covered even as their wages increase.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAddressing the income inequality gap in Singapore has been a contentious topic among socioeconomic classes for some time. While various economic policies have been implemented to uplift lower-wage workers and reduce disparities in wages, some experts argue that inequality extends beyond economic factors to include the amount of time workers have outside of work.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis raises an important question: Are the wage-poor also more time-poor? In \u2018Time Poverty among the Young Working Poor: A Pathway from Low Wage to Psychological Well-being through Work-to-Family-Conflict\u2019 (<\/span>Journal of Family and Economic Issues<\/span><\/i>, 2024), Professor Irene Y. H. Ng (NUS Social Work), Zhi Han Tan<\/span> (NUS <\/span>Social Service Research Centre), and Assistant Professor Gerard Chung (NUS Social Work) created a measure of work-based time poverty and conceptualised work-based time poverty to include not only the number of hours at work, but also other variables such as low wage, long hours, nonstandard hours, and uncontrollable hours.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe researchers found that non-standard and uncontrollable hours mediate the relationship between low wage and psychological well-being for young people in Singapore. Crucially, while both low and higher wage respondents worked high numbers of hours and were generally time constrained in terms of hours, low-wage workers were additionally time poor due to the poorer quality of their work time. The low-wage young workers in this study took on jobs that involved duties with more nonstandard hours like regular graveyard shifts or unexpected work-hours changes. Such shift work often leaves them too tired to participate in family activities, which in turn imposes psychological stresses. The inability to balance work and family life can lead to reduced self-efficacy and increased self-doubt. Over time, these issues may develop into clinical mental health problems, hindering career advancement and further entrenching them in poverty.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThis situation creates a double whammy for low-wage workers, who not only face financial constraints but also experience significant time poverty. The implications of time poverty extend beyond mere inconvenience, affecting various aspects of their lives, including family dynamics, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAddressing income poverty without tackling time poverty is insufficient, as wage improvement policies can lead to employer workarounds that short-change employees through practices like leave withholding, and time off penalties. Policymakers and employers must collaborate on measures to alleviate workplace time poverty beyond the control of young workers themselves. By tackling these issues alongside wage improvements, low-wage workers can improve their chances of breaking the poverty cycle and achieving greater economic mobility.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nRead the article <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_15972\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"2560\"]\"\" Photo: \u2018Bartender cleaning glasses\u2019 by Filbert Kuong, from SRN\u2019s SG Photobank[\/caption]<\/div><\/div>

The moderating role of trajectories of family hardiness in the relationship between trajectories of economic hardship and mental health of mothers and children<\/a><\/h3>
21 November 2025 <\/div>On 20<\/span>th<\/span> November 2024, the ComLink+ scheme celebrates its one-year anniversary, having provided support to about 14,000 families across areas such as pre-school education, employment, and home ownership. Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli described the scheme as a significant step towards enhancing resilience and promoting social mobility in Singapore, particularly for low-income families.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nWhile financial initiatives like the ComLink+ scheme are crucial in alleviating the immediate pressures faced by low-income families, resilience research highlights the importance of focusing on the nuanced dynamics of family hardiness, in the face of economic hardship. Family hardiness refers to the family\u2019s coping abilities and its collective attitude to be resilient in face of hardships.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn \u2018The moderating role of trajectories of family hardiness in the relationship between trajectories of economic hardship and mental health of mothers and children\u2019 (<\/span>Current Psychology<\/span><\/i>, 2023),\u202f<\/span> Mr Daniel Wen and Associate Professor Esther C.<\/span> L. Goh (both NUS Social Work) delineate trajectories of family hardiness across time. Additionally, they investigate whether the trajectories of economic hardship previously delineated would predict less severe, non-clinical levels of depression and anxiety in mothers and children.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nWen and Goh identify three trajectories of family hardiness, namely the high stable, low rapidly increasing and moderate increasing group. The high stable trajectory of family hardiness represents families that are working well together consistently over time, while the low rapidly increasing trajectory of family hardiness represents families that are struggling to find ways to work together to cope with their situation, and are desperately trying to enhance their ability to work together. Lastly, the moderate increasing trajectory of family hardiness represents families who are working together moderately well, and improving in their ability to work together in response to challenges.\u202f<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe researchers found that the trajectories of family hardiness moderated the relationship between trajectories of perceived economic hardship and symptoms of mental health in low-income mothers and children. Interestingly, different trajectories of family hardiness are protective for different aspects of mental health. For example, the high stable family hardiness trajectory was protective against depression among mothers, yet when it came to anxiety, a moderate increasing family hardiness trajectory was found to be protective, reducing the likelihood of higher levels of mother\u2019s and child\u2019s anxiety. One possibility is that having a consistently high trajectory of family hardiness provides a stable support system for mothers, which helps shield them from depression even when facing ongoing economic difficulties. In contrast, a moderate but increasing trajectory of family hardiness might be better at addressing anxiety, as it adapts and builds resilience over time, thus reducing the risk of heightened anxiety for both mothers and children.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe findings highlight the importance of considering family resilience dynamics over time. Incorporating ongoing evaluations of family hardiness rather than just a single point in time may provide a more accurate understanding of how a family\u2019s resilience can impact mental health outcomes.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nRead the article <\/span>here<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_15903\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"2560\"]\"\" Photo: \u2018Children flying their kites on the Marina Barrage\u2019 by\u202fRui Kang from SRN\u2019s SG Photobank[\/caption]<\/div><\/div>

Watch the Recording: Technology, Wellbeing, and Policy in Singapore (2 Oct 2025)<\/a><\/h3>
04 November 2025 <\/div>

Missed the live event? You can now watch the recording of our outreach event on Technology, Wellbeing, and Policy in Singapore, which brought together researchers from NUS Psychology and NUS Social Work to explore how technology shapes mental health and wellbeing in Singapore today. The four presentations discuss digital harms, AI, and the promise and challenges of digital mental health innovations.<\/p>\r\n

Watch the recording here:\u00a0https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4t4sbbtf<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

Download the programme here: https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4n4n7ufj<\/a><\/p>\r\n

Presentations:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n