Launch of #IAmBilingualSG Call for Projects

Invitation to public to submit digital resources to better engage children in Mother Tongue Languages

To build on continuous efforts to promote the teaching and learning of our Mother Tongue Languages (MTLs), the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism (the “Fund”) launched a #IAmBilingualSG Call for Projects to support the nurturing of bilingualism in young children at home.

2. From 6 May to 31 July 2020, the Fund will invite submissions of digital resources that are user-friendly and can help parents/caregivers engage and coach their young children (aged 0-6) in the learning and enjoyment of MTLs. The Fund has set aside $1 million for this initiative and each successful application will receive up to $10,000 in grants depending on the quality, complexity and creativity of their submission. On a case-by-case basis, the Fund will consider awarding higher funding amounts for more complex and substantive projects with the potential for further development.

3. Minister for Education, Mr Ong Ye Kung, who is also Chairman of the Fund, said: “MOE is investing more effort and resources in the teaching and learning of MTLs. There is consensus that the earlier a child starts learning languages, the easier they pick them up. This is why MOE kindergartens are increasingly focusing on language learning. The home environment for young children (aged 0-6) plays an equally, if not more important, role in doing so. We hope this latest initiative will spur individuals and enterprises to come up with fun and creative ways to engage young children in the learning of MTLs, at a young age and at home.”

4. This initiative is open to individuals (Singaporeans or Permanent Residents) and organisations/institutions (Singapore-based). Applicants may submit more than one submission as long as the content is different. Selected projects may be hosted on the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/lkybilingualism), and/or other social platforms. For the application form and more information on this initiative, please visit www.bilingualism.sg.

About the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism

5. Established on 28 November 2011, the Fund was set up to supplement efforts by the Ministry of Education in the teaching and learning of English and MTLs. The Fund supports proposals that encourage bilingualism and the learning of MTLs as a living language and a lifelong endeavour, and is set up as a company limited by guarantee, with Charity and Institution of Public Character status.