Background

The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and Yayasan MENDAKI (“MENDAKI”) share a long-standing partnership focused on improving educational outcomes and learning experiences for different segments of Singapore society. This collaboration forms a strong foundation for large-scale research, with a particular focus on understanding the educational experiences of the Malay/Muslim community.

 

Objective

Building on earlier work using data from the MENDAKI Tuition Programme (MTP), the partnership has evolved into a new study titled Striving for Success (StriveS), led by Assoc Prof Lee Yew Haur. This study focuses on tracking the educational journeys of MTP participants, particularly those in primary and secondary school.

The research team—co-led by Assoc Prof Kang Soon Hock, Assoc Prof Nicholas Sim, Dr Eunice Tan, and Dr Karen Hor, with collaborators Assoc Prof Sylvia Chong and MENDAKI—adopts both cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs. This allows for a deeper understanding of changes in learning over time, the effectiveness of various interventions, and how previous findings can inform new strategies.

As the first systematic study of its kind, StriveS offers a timely opportunity to enhance knowledge on the academic progress of MTP participants. It enables MENDAKI and its stakeholders to better understand the needs of their beneficiaries, share relevant insights, and plan future initiatives.

The study also aims to build an omnibus dataset that will support ongoing and future evidence-based policymaking. In doing so, it strengthens MENDAKI’s ability to design targeted interventions and develop long-term strategies to support student achievement and organisational growth. Ultimately, the research contributes to broader community and national goals by informing policies that enhance educational outcomes and strengthen Singapore’s social development.