The Study Grant Award and Education Assistance Fund are part of the Singapore Organisation of Seamen’s (SOS) efforts to invest in the educational future of members’ children.
Anchored under the SOS Benefits and Welfare Scheme, the two programmes are designed to ease the costs of schooling while recognising the hard work of students. By combining financial relief with encouragement, SOS helps families manage rising expenses while motivating children to strive for greater academic achievement.
In 2025, a total of 42 Study Grant Awards worth $22,350 and 7 Education Assistance Fund disbursements totalling $1,450 will be extended to recipients. The awards cover students across Primary, Secondary, ITE, Pre-University/Diploma, and University levels.
SOS Member Tan Ah Chye with his daughter Papichaya Tan
For parents, the grant provides relief in practical and meaningful ways. SOS Member Tan Ah Chye, whose daughter Papichaya Tan is in primary school, shared: “The grant eases our family’s expenses for school allowance and materials. More importantly, it encourages my daughter to keep up her good work and strive for better results.”
SOS Member Tan Eng Huat and his son Tan Bao Qiang
Students themselves also see the direct benefits. Secondary School recipient Tan Bao Qiang explained: “I’m so glad and grateful for the SOS Study Grant as it helps with my allowance and the purchasing of school materials. It motivates me to achieve good results and fulfil my dreams.”
SOS Member Jainal Bin Atan (Left) and his daughter Liyana Jainal (Centre)
At the tertiary level, where costs and pressures rise significantly, the support becomes even more crucial. Liyana Jainal said, “As a design student, much of my budget goes into materials and printing. The grant eased those costs and allowed me to focus fully on my coursework. Beyond the financial help, I truly appreciate SOS’s support over the years. It feels like recognition of my hard work and gives me confidence as I transition into the workforce.”
Over the years, SOS has leveraged support from the NTUC U Care Education Co-Funding Scheme, which co-funds educational awards, thereby extending the reach of this assistance to more families. Together, these efforts continue to ease education expenses for families and support students in their learning journey.
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