"We (24 BA students plus 2 lecturers) went to Shanghai, China this September with much anticipation and enthusiasm, all fired up to help and touch as many lives as we could.

Our first assignment was to refurbish a school for migrant workers’ children. When we arrived at the school, we were in for quite a shock. The facilities were sparse, and badly maintained. There was only one toilet to serve the whole school and the classrooms were cramped and small.

Yet despite such wanting physical condition, we noticed that they were happy. Everywhere we went, we were greeted with smiles. Their smiles heartened us and lifted our spirit. They welcomed us warmly.

As the days passed by, we started to admire their positive attitude. The students were punctual, neat, orderly, hardworking and well mannered. They were enthusiastic and willing to participate in lessons while maintaining discipline and listening studiously when we taught them. Many were bright and hungry for knowledge. What amazed us was the fact that they were extremely eager to answer questions we had posed during lesson. They were highly respectful and would put up their hands before answering.

However it also saddened us to know that although there were many bright diligent students, many would not have a chance to further their education. There was a lack of opportunity for them thereby making it very hard for them to achieve what many of us take for granted in Singapore.

The main cause is urban poverty. Their parents are not from Shanghai but are migrants from other parts of China who eke out a living in the city. Therefore they are not entitled to basic rights which the Shanghai residents enjoy.

Next, we went to an old folks’ home.  We chipped off cracked plaster from the walls and cleaned everything up.   We dismantled, cleaned and reassembled fans. It should have been a quick task as we divided our labor, but without proper coordination, many parts were mixed up and it took us awhile to find which part belonged to which fan. We learnt from this experience that coordination was essential to work efficiently as a team.

Finally we performed for the elderly residents of the old folks’ home.   After that, we interacted with the residents.  We engaged in conversation and other activities such as mahjong and Chinese chess.  We learnt that they might be old, but they were also full of wisdom - some of us who had played against the elderly were soundly beaten!

We learnt many things in Shanghai, ranging from the determined spirit of the human soul to the unfairness of human poverty.  We hope we have touched the lives of people there.  But whether we managed to touch their lives or not, one thing is definite - THEY TOUCHED OURS."

- by students of Serve China 2009.