During a recent #YouthExpeditionProject reconnaissance trip from Chiang Mai to the mountainous regions of Chiang Rai, I found myself deeply reflecting on the impact we can make on the communities we serve, and the profound lessons we receive in return. It reinforced the importance of embracing the principles of 'appreciative inquiry' (Cooperrider DL, 1986) at every stage of our journey. This approach emphasizes not only recognizing but also celebrating the existing strengths, resources, and successes within the community. I was reminded of the timeless wisdom shared by Robert Sigmon in his seminal article from 1979, “Service-learning: Three Principles.” His words resonated deeply, highlighting the essence of our role as co-educators, co-learners, co-servers, and co-generators of knowledge within the communities we engage with. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of collaboration and mutual respect in fostering meaningful and sustainable change. Each step we take in our service-learning endeavors is an opportunity to not only contribute to the well-being of others but also to enrich our own understanding and perspective. It is through genuine partnership and a commitment to appreciation and inquiry that we can truly make a difference, both within ourselves and in the communities we serve.
In Singapore, the #NationalYouthCouncil has been a steadfast supporter of international service-learning projects for the past two decades. These transformative experiences have left an indelible mark on our students, nurturing a profound sense of active citizenship and fostering lasting friendships with our overseas neighbours. As our socially conscious students embark on their professional journeys, the imperative for companies and organizations to align with their values becomes increasingly evident. It is essential for these entities to adopt strategies that prioritize both profit and societal benefit, aligning with the ethos of social responsibility increasingly embraced by our younger generations. By doing so, we can ensure a seamless alignment between personal values and workplace practices, fostering a culture of purpose-driven innovation and positive impact.
I am grateful to continue this journey alongside #NgeeAnnPolytechnic #OSL, and my dedicated team at #LSCT. Together, we are committed to expanding and enhancing these programs, ensuring that more students have the opportunity to experience the transformative power of international service learning. With each step forward, we move closer to creating a world where empathy, compassion, and social responsibility are not just values, but guiding principles that shape our collective future.
National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest - Director Transport, Traffic and Logistics Department
1dWe deeply appreciate exploratist | employee experience agency work that indeed transformed our laboratories in inspiring and creative space for students! The cooperation with DP World certainly brings quality in higher education.