Across Singapore, schools have described the GEN2050 Teach SG programme as a partnership that “goes beyond tutoring” – one that touches hearts, uplifts communities, and nurtures both academic and personal growth. NUS student mentors have become not only learning guides, but role models who help children believe in themselves and rediscover the joy of learning.

At Huamin Primary, teachers witnessed this heart-work up close. They shared how the mentors, “consistently demonstrated responsibility, empathy, and forward-thinking in their work with our at-risk students.” What stood out most was their genuine care – from connecting deeply with students to writing personalised notes for each child. “It’s hard to believe this was simply a course requirement,” a teacher reflected. “It reaffirms the saying, ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’”

At Jurong Primary, the impact was just as tangible. Teachers saw “notable improvements in students’ confidence, communication, and motivation toward school,” describing how the mentorship created “a more inclusive and caring atmosphere within our school community.”

This spirit of joy and connection echoed across schools. At Fernvale Primary, the students grew so invested in the programme that some at risk of long-term absenteeism began showing up to school on Teach SG days. That same sense of anticipation could be felt at South View Primary, where students “wait eagerly near the school gate” for their mentors every Friday. Through creative activities like the Egg-Drop Challenge or visits to NUS University Town, even the quietest students began to open up and collaborate with confidence.

Over at Yio Chu Kang Secondary, mentors infused learning with fun: “After each academic session, mentors facilitated math-related games and even a terrarium-making activity to help students de-stress.” Teachers noticed that when learning was joyful, “students became more confident, improved communication, and built stronger peer relationships.”