31 March 2008

NUS, your home to the world

	BEST HOST: Mr Reza Shah Mohd Anwar (left), Head, International Student Services, Office of Student Affairs, receiving the award from Mr John Conceicao, Director, Education Services, Singapore Tourism Board. – Picture courtesy of Education Services, Singapore Tourism Board.

NUS is the choice "home away from home" for international students in Singapore. The University was awarded the Best Host for International Students Studying in Singapore Schools at the Singapore Tourism Board’s (STB) Singapore Education Awards (25 Mar). It was among the 17 institutions and individuals honoured for creating a "uniquely Singapore" education experience for international students here.

With close to 9,000 international students from 89 countries, NUS spares no effort in looking after their welfare. From day one upon their arrival at the airport, the International Student Services (ISS) with the help of some 1,000 student volunteers, would help them adjust to the culture shock. One example that has worked well is matching these students with host families to give them a taste of the local culture. After they have graduated, the ISS continues to help them to make transition to working life in Singapore.

Said Mr Reza Shah Mohd Anwar, Head, ISS: "A good host is one that recognises the value of an international community, appreciates its diversity and has put in place a system that facilitates social integration of international students, without losing sight of individual students, their needs and concerns that arise from being away from home."

"We will continue to promote best practices in our services and programmes and deliver our theme ‘Your Home to the World’ to our international and local student community in a truly global university like NUS."