Project Alpha is a meaningful overseas community engagement initiative led by residents of Hall of Residence 4. Comprising a dedicated team of 23 members, this project has been an important endeavor for the Hall 4 community. The team embarked on a journey to Laos this year, marking their first return since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Project Alpha is more than just a project; it is an opportunity to connect with and contribute to local communities in Laos while sharing and learning about each other’s culture. The team’s mission is to foster sustainable development and cross-cultural understanding through impactful activities and initiatives. Throughout their time in Laos, the team actively engaged with various communities, with the majority of their time in Laos spent collaborating with Phuanmit School in Oudomxay province. Their efforts were dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of the school and its surrounding community. By working closely with the school, the team sought to support their educational programs, infrastructure development, and overall growth. Through the team’s collective dedication and the spirit of collaboration, they strived to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the people they encountered. As such, they interacted and worked with not only the students at the school, but also the teachers as well as staff who acted as their translators in order to help them to conduct their activities effectively.
Mornings at Phuanmit School were characterised by unwavering dedication and hard work as the team actively engaged in a construction project, collaborating closely with the school staff to enhance the premises. The project focus was on digging drainage systems and patching uneven roads outside the school to create a safer environment for the students and staff.
After the construction work, the attention shifted to the vibrant summer school students – 150 individuals evenly divided between elementary and secondary levels. Considering their recent exams, the team curated light-hearted and enjoyable activities to alleviate morning class stress. The mission was to foster community building, instill positive values, and nurture a growth mindset through engaging games like dog and bone, duck duck goose, and thrilling relay races. Amidst laughter and fun, the team embraced cultural exchange, immersing themselves in their way of life by learning Laos traditional dance and the various interactions. The team encouraged artistic expression with activities like painting caterpillars using egg cartons, tote bag designing, and teaching K-pop dances. The culmination of the team’s efforts was an unforgettable showcase of their newfound talents in front of the entire school, leaving a lasting impact on the students’ hearts.
I am thankful for this opportunity to interact with these kids. I actually learnt a lot from them and they are very grateful for the simple things in life. Edwin Tan Bi Hao, Programmer Subcommittee
About Project Alpha
Project Alpha is an inspiring overseas community engagement initiative led by NTU Hall of Residence 4. This year (2023) marks their sixth project to Laos and holds special significance as it represents their first return since the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this project, the team aim to foster meaningful connections with local communities and contribute to their sustainable development. Project Alpha embodies the team’s commitment to cross-cultural understanding, social responsibility, and the spirit of international collaboration.
