As a city that prides itself on innovation, it is no surprise that Singapore is home to the most diverse prize programs in the world. From environmental solutions to innovative philanthropy, Singapore has something for everyone in the field of social change.
The President’s Science and Technology Awards have been crowned this year, recognizing the top scientists in Singapore for upholding research excellence, fostering an ecosystem of scientific talent, and building a strong foundation for Singapore’s growth as a global powerhouse. Previously known as the National Science and Technology Awards, the accolade was elevated to Presidential status in 2009. Dmytro Udovychenko, Anna Agafia Egholm, and Angela Sin Ying Chan all received the top award for their efforts in pursuing excellence in violin performances.
Roll out the green carpet, because the winners of this year’s Earthshot Prize were crowned in Singapore this week. A solar-powered dryer maker, a soil carbon marketplace, and groups that work to make electric car batteries cleaner, restore Andean forests and deter illegal fishing were all honoured at a ceremony hosted by Britain’s Prince William. The winning solutions were selected by a jury of experts.
In the Leaders of Good (Adult) category, Dr Sushilan Vasoo was honoured for her years of service in promoting sustainable support systems to help people in need. Her tireless efforts helped to establish Family Service Centres, as well as boosted community volunteerism through her hands-on leadership in multiple charities such as ACE Seniors, Allkin, and Down Syndrome Association. Joining her in the category is Koh Juay Meng, who has steadfastly advocated for senior volunteerism with his roles in RSVP Singapore and various other organisations.
The evening of recognition also saw several firsts at the Singapore Literature Prize, where the 2024 award season celebrated its 30th year. Clara Chow made history as the program’s first writer to be shortlisted in English fiction and Chinese poetry. Her debut collection, Gaze Back, was a daring and unapologetic collection that tackled taboo topics such as menstruation and sexuality.
Epigram Books authors took home the prizes for English fiction and Chinese nonfiction. The Straits Times journalist Akshita Nanda’s debut novel, Nimita’s Place, won the English fiction prize, while the speculative short story collection Black Panther won in Chinese creative nonfiction. The NUS Singapore History Prize, meanwhile, was awarded to Khir Johari’s tome on the cuisine of the Singapore Malays, which won in the book category. The NUS prize is open to non-fiction works and books of any genre with clear historical themes. In the English Comic or Graphic Novel category, the self-published Cockman (2022), about a chicken from another dimension stranded on Earth, was lauded for its “over-the-top audacity and absurdity”.