Imagine a world where legal and social service practitioners converge to support communities in need. That’s what fueled our School of Law and Social Work students from the S R Nathan School of Human Development to host a lively discussion with Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Social and Family Development, and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth.
SUSS School of Law faculty and students with Mr Eric Chua (first row, fourth from left). (Photo credits: Ministry of Social and Family Development)
From the session, our students gleaned valuable insights into Singapore's social support systems and the lives they can touch.
Mr Eric Chua in an engaging discussion with SUSS law and social work students. (Photo credits: Ministry of Social and Family Development)
Shared Ren Kai, a Year 2 Bachelor of Law student, "I learnt that it is not a one-size-fits-all, but a 'screwdriver' approach used by social workers to customise support for each family.” This reinforces the adaptability and precision required of social workers to navigate the diverse challenges faced by those seeking aid.
Ren Kai, a Year 2 SUSS Bachelor of Law student, posing a question to Mr Eric Chua. (Photo credits: Ministry of Social and Family Development)
Affirming this is Wendy Ong, a Year 4 Juris Doctor student, who described the session as a ‘wake-up call’ to understand the real needs of the community. “For me, the epiphany was learning that lower-income households only needed to pay $3 a month to send their child to preschool. And yet they don't."
This revelation struck a chord in her and caused her to ponder her role as a future community lawyer and the tangible changes she can effect.
Wendy Ong, a Year 4 SUSS Juris Doctor student, exchanging views with Mr Eric Chua. (Photo credits: Ministry of Social and Family Development)
Inspired to make an impact on our community? Check out our law and social work programmes!