Service Learning with ISE

Service Learning started at ISE as far back as 2004 when it was founded. In fact the founder and his associates have already been involved wth service learning since the 90s when they were working with Rotary International - the world's largest and oldest service organisation. They are all members of Rotary International and with its global network of Rotary Clubs, meaningful and effective projects were carried out successfully.

The greatest impact of Service Learning in action at ISE was felt after the Asian Tsunami disaster when it was the appointed handling agent for Singapore Rotary International in sending youth volunteers to affected areas for community rebuilding programme. After initial months of risk assessment, the first batch of volunteers from various Singapore schools arrived in Khao Lak in June 2005. This was followed by regular teams of volunteers from then till this year when 90 youth volunteers from 8 schools will be travelling to Khao Lak from 15-25 Jun 2009. With Rotary International's network of connections, a strict RAMS is in place to ensure that welfare of the youth is well covered. Generally all teams are led by experienced facilitators, Rotarians, teachers and alumni of past trips. Going through the daily process of readiness, rendering and reflection, every member of the team contributes and participates in all the activities organised at the local community. At Khao Lak, past groups have the privilege to serve a diverse community of Thai Buddhists, Thai Moslems, Burmese and sea gypsies. While friendship was built, most importantly, our youth brought HOPE to the community.

"I participated in an overseas trip to Khao Lak organised by the Rotary Club in 2005 for the purpose of tsunami relief. I would like to highlight something Rotarian Jimmy Ooi said to our team on the last night that stuck in my mind. He said: "when we came, Khao Lak was just a place to us. But in the future, should someone mention Khao Lak, we would remember not a place, but a face." I think that he succinctly brought out the fact that by serving the community, we form strong personal bonds with the beneficiaries. These bonds do not solely bless the beneficiaries, but we ourselves are enriched through the experience as well" - Sergius Wat, President Scholar 2007.

Since then, ISE has served Rotary International as its working partner sending teams of youth volunteers helping many deserving communities in S E Asia. For more details, please contact Jimmy Ooi at rtnjimmyooi@singnet.com.sg