Page 37 - NYAA Annual Report 2023

Appendix 13

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR 2023

Our Work: Programmes and Activities

The National Youth Achievement Award (NYAA) aims to achieve the desired outcomes of its youth development
programme through four mandatory components: Service Learning, Outdoor Appreciation, Healthy Living,
and Community Leadership. These components help young people become more adept at finding solutions
and impacting the community. The NYAA Programme complements the formal education system and has
inspired over 700,000 young men and women since its launch in May 1992 by the President of the Republic
of Singapore. Participation in the NYAA is voluntary and driven by a heartfelt commitment to serve and make
a difference in society. The NYAA is vital in building future generations of community leaders with a strong
national pride, yielding significant results.

Firstly, the NYAA focuses on empowering capable young people to demonstrate concern and care for the less
fortunate. By promoting empathy and compassion, we aim to uplift privileged individuals while encouraging
them to extend a helping hand to those in need. This approach fosters a sense of social responsibility and
nurtures a community where everyone is valued.

Secondly, the NYAA provides opportunities for young people from challenging backgrounds to discover their
hidden potential, succeed, and excel. By offering support and creating growth platforms, we empower these
individuals to find their identity and place in society. They inspire others, demonstrating that anyone can
overcome obstacles and achieve great things with determination and support.

Our community began rebuilding as the COVID-19 pandemic receded in 2023 and safety restrictions eased.
With more opportunities for interaction and access to facilities for mass activities, we witnessed positive
developments. However, remaining cautious and prioritising safety while organising mass gatherings and
activities was essential. Thus, stringent monitoring measures were implemented to ensure the well-being of
all participants.

The NYAA leveraged technology to adapt our programs and activities in response to the pandemic. Many
physical events were replaced with online alternatives, allowing young people to navigate the challenges
posed by the pandemic effectively. We commend our Operating Partners, including educational institutions
and youth/community organisations, for their resilience and commitment to providing young people with
opportunities to excel. We emphasised the importance of exercising caution and avoided rushing the reopening
process until the situation was deemed safe. The utmost precautions were taken to protect the well-being of
young participants in all activities and projects.

Additionally, we were pleased to note the active engagement of our NYAA Gold Award Holders’ Alumni members
within the community. Through their expertise, talents, and contributions, they continued to support various
institutions and organisations, contributing to the betterment of society.

Despite the numerous challenges faced in 2023, our NYAA recipients and participants made significant
contributions to society. Their perseverance, resilience, and never-give-up attitude made their families,
institutions/organisations, the NYAA, and Singapore immensely proud.
In line with our mission, the NYAA remained committed to empowering young people and nurturing future
community leaders. With the support of our dedicated partners, we will continue to provide opportunities and
platforms for young individuals to develop into passionate and responsible citizens. Together, we can build a
Singapore we can all be proud of.

PARTNERSHIP (LOCAL)

The NYAA Secretariat continued to build and strengthen our partnerships with the Government Ministries:
• Ministry of Education (MOE) • Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth (MCCY)
• Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment • Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)
(MSE) • Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) • Ministry of National Development (MND)

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