Singapore's young do have desire to do good

It is encouraging to know that more young people are looking at the social service sector as a viable career option ("Social services finding favour among young grads"; last Sunday).

This trend supports our most recent Graciousness Index survey, which found that young adults are comparatively more optimistic about the state of kindness and graciousness than the older generation. This bodes well for the provision of effective social services as social needs are projected to grow in the future.

The mindset of measuring a job's worth primarily by its returns in dollars and cents has become entrenched in many people, given that Singaporeanshave been brought up on a diet of pragmatism and competitiveness.

While not wrong in itself, this mentality has, in the past, deterred qualified younger people from entering the social service sector.

That young people are now looking to join and develop their careers in this area indicates that the young are looking for meaning and significance in their vocation. It confirms that they do desire to touch lives, create a positive impact and make a difference in society.

This is in line with our observation that, far from being disengaged, many young people in Singapore have the inherent desire to do good.

A kinder and more gracious society will ensure that those who need help are not left to fend for themselves.

William Wan (Dr)

General Secretary

Singapore Kindness Movement

This article was first published on Sep 14, 2014.
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