Project Alpha is a significant overseas community engagement initiative spearheaded by the residents of Hall of Residence 4. This project, consisting of a devoted team of 21 members, has become a crucial undertaking for our hall community. Project Alpha transcends being merely a project; it represents a valuable opportunity to connect with and contribute to local communities in Laos, sharing our culture while also gaining a deeper understanding of theirs. Our mission focuses on promoting sustainable development and fostering cross-cultural understanding through impactful activities and initiatives.
During our time in Laos, we actively engaged with various communities, spending the majority of our stay collaborating with Ban Phon Xay Primary School in Luang Prabang. Our efforts were concentrated on enhancing the well-being and quality of life of the school and its surrounding community. By working closely with the school, we aimed to support their educational programs, infrastructure development, and overall growth. Through our collective dedication and spirit of collaboration, we endeavoured to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the people we encountered.
We interacted and worked not only with the students at the school but also with the teachers and staff, who acted as our translators to help us conduct our activities effectively. Our afternoons at Ban Phon Xay School were marked by unwavering commitment and hard work as we engaged in a construction project, collaborating closely with the school staff to improve the premises. We focused on building toilets for the students and staff. In the mornings, we dedicated our attention to the vibrant summer school students. Our mission was to foster community building, instil positive values, and nurture a growth mindset through engaging games like eagle catch chick, duck duck goose, and thrilling relay races.
Additionally, we encouraged artistic expression through activities like making fake plants using egg cartons, designing tote bags, and teaching K-pop dances. The culmination of our efforts was an unforgettable showcase of the students’ newfound talents in front of the entire school, leaving a lasting impact on their hearts and ours.
Project Alpha by Hall of Residence 4 exemplifies our dedication to global citizenship, compassion, and social responsibility. With unwavering enthusiasm, we immersed ourselves in the local culture, learned from the people, and formed meaningful connections that we hope will resonate long after our departure. Through Project Alpha, we have demonstrated our dedication to making a difference in the world, one community at a time.
Talking to them made me realise that in Singapore, we truly have so many more opportunities to further our education or work in various careers. The contentment and gratitude I saw in these kids toward their current lives made me reflect on myself and all that I have. Andrea Sam, Chief of Welfare
About Project Alpha
Project Alpha is an inspiring overseas community engagement initiative led by NTU Hall of Residence 4. This year (2024) marks their seventh project to Laos. Through this project, we aim to to nurture confident individuals, who are socially responsible and caring citizens, through service learning.
