Many glean the importance of alumni relations over a dinner get-together.

There is nothing like good company and fine food to get students into the mood for some sharing and learning. Dishing out all the good stuff, NTU's Alumni Affairs Office (AAO) hosted a dinner get-together party and brought together some 200 student leaders from the various clubs, societies and Hall Junior Common Room Committees. The event was held on 7 January 2009 at the Nanyang Executive Centre.

Student leaders – tomorrow's alumni – were able to learn about why they need to cultivate alumni relations with fellow students and alumni alike. Not only that. They also got to voice their concern and share their views with senior NTU staff.

Guest-of-honour Mr Anthony Teo, Secretary to the University, stressed the importance of building a strong bond with the students while they were still on campus, for the bond will remain strong long after graduation. He also encouraged the students to stay in touch with their alma mater when they have become alumni; this will continue to revitalise the university. Other VIP guests were: Mr Soon Min Yam, Director, AAO; Assoc Prof Lok Tat Seng, Dean of Students; Mr Chong Peng Jek, Advisor, Student Affairs Office and several Assistant Chairs (Alumni) from the Schools.

All who were present got an overview on the role of the AAO and the services the office provides, through a presentation by Mr Soon. The student leaders were also made to understand the important role they play in cultivating a sense of unity and belonging among the student population. They were noticeably forward-looking in mindset and pragmatic – apparent from the concerns they raised during a question-and-answer session held towards the end of the event. 

Some even wanted to find out how they can set up alumni associations, while others were keen to reach out to their peers for specific causes and events. Advice was offered by the panelists, comprising Mr Teo and Mr Soon, in addition to a helping hand.

"The Student Leaders' Gathering was very well-organised and gave all of us a chance to find out all about what the Alumni Affairs Office (AAO) does and how the office has provided for both students and alumni throughout the years. We are thankful for their encouragement and interest in student-related activities at NTU." - Ng Hwei Yun/ President/ NTU Students' Union

© Alumni Affairs Office