Student Council Report Subheader
We have to be cognisant of our well-endowed position and realise that where we are today is partly due to factors independent of our own effort .
that the provision of these resources are for the sole purpose of better serving the school .
Similarly , for the wider school community , we too have our own ‘ Rafflesian privilege ’. I do not say this with elitism , but rather the humble acknowledgement that we have been ( fairly , or not ) endowed with more . This is a list of things that many of us have taken for granted , or at least , do not actively acknowledge . At the most basic level , we have ample academic support . We have supportive teachers , comprehensive notes and a conducive environment for studying , which allow us to push ourselves academically and stand a better chance at getting onto the traditional routes of success .
So what are Rafflesians to do with this privilege ? With all the recent talk about the effectiveness of meritocracy and how it is ‘ unfashionable to be a Rafflesian ’ ( as my literature teacher is known to say ) given the socioeconomic trepidations Singapore is undergoing , we need to work twice as hard to contribute back to the treasury of commons of which we have drawn from so extensively . It is no longer just about Rafflesians ‘ contributing back to society ’. It is also about our attitude in doing so . Many Rafflesians go on to become doctors , lawyers or public servants who can contribute significantly in their respective fields . But will we be authentic in our intention to save lives , provide legal protection or serve the people ? Or will we fall into the trap of dismissive condescension which has reared its ugly head in recent prominent cases on social media ?
The real world will not be as forgiving as our school mates if we abuse our privileges , or are arrogant in our actions . We have to be cognisant of our well-endowed position and realise that where we are today is partly due to factors independent of our own effort . With that awareness , it is silly to not be humble and sincere in our actions .
As we graduate from this school , I am grateful for this chance to be in this position of privilege . It is an odd combination of events that has allowed me to end up where I am today . Thank you for allowing me to serve in Council and in so doing , take away these invaluable lessons , which moving forward , I hope to apply when serving Singapore . The future beckons and I earnestly hope that Rafflesians can continue to contribute actively to our community and be true to our motto , Auspicium Melioris Aevi .
Rafflesian Times
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