READY TO BE THE BEST THAT THEY CAN BE

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) has always been a popular co-curricular activity (CCA), never mind the seemingly endless drills and regimentation.

With activities like field camps and live-firing, it offers cadets a sneak preview of National Service.

Each year, the NCC takes in about 4500 cadets, throughout 144 secondary schools.

The annual NCC Affirmation Ceremony, held on 5 Apr this year, is an important rite to welcome these new cadets to the NCC family, as well as to instil in them a sense of belonging.

Speaking at the event, Permanent Secretary (Education), Mrs Tan Ching Yee, announced that NCC cadets would now be able to acquire core skills across the land, sea and air divisions.

For example, aero-modelling, previously offered only to air cadets, will now be offered to land and sea cadets as well.

There will also be more visits and attachments to Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) units, to "enhance the cadets' military exposure and knowledge".

Former NCC cadet and now Chief of Army Major-General (MG) Neo Kian Hong shared some personal anecdotes from his cadet days.

MG Neo also updated the audience, comprising new cadets, their parents and senior cadets, on some of the ways the SAF would be contributing to the NCC.

SAF units will "adopt" schools within their vicinity and invite cadets to their key events to give them a better understanding of SAF culture.

The SAF will also "update the curriculum to teach relevant knowledge" said MG Neo.

Indeed, "knowledge" seems to be a major draw for the new cadets cyberpioneer spoke to.

"I felt that it would be useful to learn new things," said NCC Air cadet Estella Low, who hopes to sign on with the Air Force as a pilot in future.

"I also hope to become more independent by taking part in various activities and camps," she added.