Migrant workers make up a high proportion of the population in Singapore, but it is not easy for them to integrate with the locals. The locals may see them as competitors for jobs, or find the lifestyles and habits of some groups undesirable, or are concerned that the foreigners do not integrate well. Goducate would like to help the migrant workers to integrate with local society and to improve their lot in life. Teaching them English is one way of doing so, and plans are underway to start a pilot class for Chinese and other migrant workers later this month. Another large group of workers comes from the Philippines. A program for this group has already started.
Basketball is undoubtedly the most popular sport among Filipinos wherever they are. They enjoy just shooting the ball into the hoop alone or with friends, or taking part in an organised basketball league. There are now many Filipino-run basketball leagues in Singapore and the number is expected to rise annually. To meet the need for skilled and certified referees to officiate at basketball tournaments, Goducate, through its “ConnecTayo! Singapore” program, invited George Magsino, a referee certified by FIBA (Federation of International Basketball) and BAP (Basketball Association of the Philippines), to conduct a week-long training course. It produced 22 certified referees, some at Beginner and some at Intermediate level. The certification offers these new referees the chance of earning some additional income as referees, and because the Intermediate-level certificate is recognized by BAP, it will be recognized by any Filipino community globally, a helpful point for any worker who may go on to work elsewhere.
The program is intended also to benefit the Singapore community because more tournaments will be run professionally, resulting in better controlled games and fewer matches marred by disputes and even fights. Goducate would like the referees trained under this program to form an association to oversee their own development and skills upgrading, and to promote integration by joining and developing community projects and events.
Guest writer Willy, Staff at GLCC