He gave up a job in the financial industry to be a preschool teacher even though the pay was as much as five times less than what he was earning - but couldn't find a job.

Mr Teo Tze Wei, 41, obtained a specialist diploma in early childhood education accredited by the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, but he was rejected by six preschools because he is a man.

In a letter to the Straits Times "Don't discriminate against male preschool teachers", he urged for employers to practise "non-discrimination based on gender".

He said that even though classified advertisements did not specify gender requirements, he was always told that they were looking for a female teacher when he made inquiries. Once, he was even told they preferred 'a female working environment'.

Mr Teo told Lianhe Wanbao that although he was earning a good salary as a finance manager, he always had an interest in education. When he was thinking about switching careers, his second and third sons were both in preschool, which inspired him to specialise in preschool education.

Initially, his wife was taken aback by his decision, but fortunately she has been very supportive ever since.

After being rejected by six preschools, he was finally accepted by a child development centre run by Beyond Social Services, under his lecturer's recommendation.

A year later, he opened LiCdo Schoolhouse with a partner. He says that when they expand their operations, he will certainly hire based on merit.