Forty students from diverse backgrounds received bursaries from the Singapore Ceylon Tamils’ Association (SCTA) at its annual luncheon on Sunday, in a show of the community’s commitment to education and inclusivity.
The students, nominated by SINDA and the Marine Parade Family Service Centres, come from financially challenged families. The bursaries, disbursed through the SCTA Education Fund, are aimed at encouraging young people to pursue their studies regardless of race or religion.
“Education has always been the cornerstone of the Ceylonese community,” said SCTA President Asoka Markandu in his address. “These bursaries are open to all — regardless of race or religion — so that every child has the opportunity to pursue their dreams through education.”
The Education Fund has raised more than S$40,000 this year through community donations. Asoka noted that the initiative reflects SCTA’s mission to extend support beyond its own members, strengthening ties across Singapore’s multicultural society.
“The relationships we build — both within and beyond our community — will define who we are as Singaporeans.”
SCTA President Asoka Markandu
Legacy of Generosity
Mdm K Sarojiniammal Kinian
This year’s luncheon also honoured the late Madam K Sarojiniammal Kinian, whose estate contributed S$20,000 to the Education Fund. The donation established the Sarojiniammal – SSVT Bursary Awards Scheme, which will continue to fund educational opportunities for children from low-income families.
“Madam Sarojiniammal’s generosity and foresight will touch many lives,” Asoka said. “It is a fitting tribute to someone who believed deeply in education and in giving back to the community.”
A slide presentation highlighted her life of quiet service – from her devotion to the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple (SSVT) to her lifelong pursuit of learning, including her efforts to master written Tamil later in life.
Preserving Heritage, Serving Community
The luncheon, held at the Shangri-La Hotel, was attended by around 500 guests and graced by Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the Ministry of Manpower, and Mr Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State for the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Both ministers commended the Association’s work in supporting education, cultural preservation, and social cohesion.
Asoka also provided an update on SCTA’s ongoing fundraising for the refurbishment of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples. Renovations to classrooms and the wedding hall have been completed, with work on the ancillary building underway. The restoration of the temple’s main structure is scheduled to begin in mid-2026, culminating in the Kumbhabhishegam ceremony in 2027.
“As custodians of this temple, it is our duty to preserve it — and to keep our culture and heritage alive through initiatives such as our religious school and music and dance academy,” he said. “The young performers you saw today are proof that when a community believes in its youth, its culture stays alive.”
A Tradition Renewed
The luncheon also featured cultural performances by students from the SCTA’s Music and Dance Academy, showcasing traditional Tamil art forms with a contemporary touch. The performances — ranging from classical Bharatanatyam to instrumental ensembles — highlighted the Association’s efforts to nurture young talent and keep its artistic heritage alive. Asoka noted that “the young performers you saw today are proof that when a community believes in its youth, its culture stays alive.”
Asoka urged members to continue supporting the Association’s initiatives. “While we cherish our past, we must also look ahead,” he said. “The relationships we build — both within and beyond our community — will define who we are as Singaporeans.”
Founded in 1910, SCTA is one of Singapore’s oldest registered societies and the guardian of the Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple in Katong.
SCTA Luncheon 2025 – Photo Gallery
Photos Courtesy of MCCY
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