GEYZING,: The two-day Sikkim-Singapore Teachers’ Pedagogical Exchange Programme held at Yuksam concluded on Tuesday.
Organised by Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee (KCC) in partnership with Singapore National Institute of Education (NIE) and State Education department, the event aimed to equip educators with innovative teaching strategies while fostering global educational partnerships.
The programme brought together 34 educators from Sikkim and 28 student-teachers from NIE Singapore. It featured an engaging mix of workshops, discussions, and interactive activities. Educators explored key areas such as curriculum development, physical education, and character-building methodologies.
The highlight of the exchange programme was Singapore’s Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) curriculum, which uses storytelling to instill values and build language skills. Sikkim educators, in turn, shared their unique career guidance approach involving village elders, promoting cultural preservation and real-world wisdom in schools.
Physical education was another area of focus, with participants learning about Singapore’s National Physical Fitness Award (NAPFA) and discussing ways to incorporate similar fitness initiatives in Sikkim. Ideas like standardizing fitness assessments across genders were explored to promote equality and inclusivity.
Participants from both Sikkim and Singapore expressed enthusiasm for future exchanges, with several Sikkim educators expressing interest in visiting Singapore to observe its education system first-hand.
Speaking on the occasion, chief education officer, Pema G. Bhutia lauded the growing partnership between KCC and NIE Singapore, expressing hope for continued collaboration in areas like curriculum innovation and policy planning.
Adding a technological dimension, the programme also included a website design workshop for panchayat members and staff, conducted by NIE Singapore. This initiative aimed to enhance digital literacy and e-governance skills in rural communities.
The exchange programme concluded with a valedictory ceremony, where CEO Bhutia presided over the proceedings. Other dignitaries included KCC president Tshering Uden Bhutia and KCC board member Kinzong Sherap Bhutia along with senior officials from SCERT and the Education department. Certificates were distributed to all participants.
