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History of DAS

Home About DAS History of DAS

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) is a vibrant organisation with over 250 professional staff who provide a wide array of services for people with dyslexia not only in Singapore but also in the region.

Working closely with the Singapore government and other stakeholders, DAS specialist psychologists conduct assessment and diagnosis for preschool students to adults. DAS Educational Therapists and Speech and Language Therapists provide support for over 3,500 preschool, primary and secondary school students in 14 centres all over Singapore. 

How a few made a difference to thousands

DAS salutes the Rotary Club of Raffles City (RCRC) for initiating DAS 25 years ago and its continuing support to help students with Dyslexia

Initiated as a one-off community project by RCRC in 1989, DAS has since served thousands of individuals with dyslexia and is continuing to develop capabilities with an aim to eventually support Singapore’s dyslexic community

DAS began as a community service project in 1989 by the then-President of RCRC, Mr Abraham, and Dr Daruwalla to raise awareness of dyslexia in Singapore. After organising two public forums on dyslexia, the first of which counted Mrs Marion Welchman, the founder of the first UK dyslexia association and Dr Lee Wei Ling, who was a consultant paediatric neurologist and the head of the Learning Disorders Clinic at School Health Services as its speakers, RCRC forged ahead to establish a local dyslexia association and formed a committee to see to the project in April 1991, leading to the official registration of DAS with the Registrar of Societies in October 1991.

With the RCRC’s support and many other significant donors and sponsors, DAS has expanded from an initial intake of 12 students and a teacher in 1993, to its current full-time staff strength of 240, which includes educational therapists, specialist psychologists and speech and language therapist, to support more than 3,000 students with dyslexia in 13 centres in Singapore.

“We are thankful for the unfailing support from the Rotary Club of Raffles City throughout the past 25 years. It is because of charitable organisations like RCRC that DAS is able to continue to enhance our capabilities and expand our reach and scope to assist more individuals with dyslexia. The evolution of DAS as a small-scale community service project by RCRC into its present-day scale demonstrates that no charitable effort is insignificant, that an initiative of a few can benefit thousands. We hope this partnership will inspire more organisations and people to give individuals with dyslexia a helping hand,” said Lee Siang, Chief Executive Officer, DAS.

“The RCRC is proud to have initiated a community service project on dyslexia that became the foundation for the growth of DAS into an organisation offering support for students with learning needs. Beyond observing 25 years of support to DAS, RCRC understands there are many more children with dyslexia out there and is committed to supporting DAS to help these children overcome their learning differences, reach their potential and achieve academic, professional and personal successes,” said Corina Lai, President of RCRC (2015).  

1989

JUL

The Rotary Club of Raffles City initiated a community service project to raise awareness for dyslexia in Singapore, driven and led by Mr George Abraham and Dr Jimmy Daruwalla.

1990

APR

The Rotary Club of Raffles City organised the first public forum on dyslexia. Mrs Marion Welchman, Secretary of the British Dyslexia Association and Founder of the first dyslexia association in the United Kingdom at Bath, Mrs Jean Augur, Educational Officer, British Dyslexia Association and Dr Lee Wei Ling, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist and Head of the Learning Disorders Clinic at School Health Services, were invited to speak at the forum. A workshop was also held for 200 teachers from the Ministry of Education (MOE).

OCT

A second public forum was organised by the Rotary Club of Raffles City and the need for establishing a Dyslexia Association in Singapore was put forward.

1991

APR

A committee was formed to lay the groundwork for setting up the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS).

OCT

Dyslexia Association of Singapore was registered with the Registrar of Societies. The People’s Association provided the DAS with office space at its Kallang premises free-of-charge. The first Executive Committee was formed.

1992

JAN

DAS Committee members held an informal meeting with Mrs George Bush, the First Lady of the United States during her visit to Singapore. At her request, the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital in Dallas, presented the DAS with a set of 500 video tapes for remedial teaching.

mar

The Rotary Club of Raffles City and the Canadian Alumni raised $25,000 to finance the initial operations of DAS.

1993

AUG

DAS hired its first teacher, Ms Dawn Brockett. There was a total of 12 students under her care.

OCT

DAS’s first Learning Centre was set up at the Student Care Services Centre in Clementi.

1994

FEB

Dr Loke Loo Pin organised a charity concert “A Musical Affair” in aid of DAS at the Jubilee Hall in Raffles Hotel, which raised a total of $16,700.

mar

The official opening of the first DAS Learning Centre at the Student Care Services Centre in Clementi, by Mr Bernard Chen, MP for Brickworks GRC. DAS also published its first newsletter.

1995

APR

Mrs Goh Chok Tong became the Patron of DAS.

MAY

DAS held its first Charity Dinner and Dance at the ballroom of Shangri-La Hotel. Mrs Goh Chok Tong was the Guest-of-Honour. A total of $250,000 was raised.

JUN

Dr Lee Wei Ling, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist and Head of the Learning Disorders Clinic at School Health Services became Advisor to DAS.

JUL

Dr Aline Wong, Senior Minister of State (Education & Health) announced a MOE-DAS joint project and a starting grant of $500,000 which included $95,000 for the renovation of another DAS Learning Centre at Ping Yi Primary School. The balance was a subsidy paid over the following three years. 

SEP

DAS Learning Centre at Clementi Community Centre was officially opened by Mrs Goh Chok Tong, DAS Patron. 

1996

MAR

DAS appointed its first Executive Director, Mrs Linda Low.

APR

A symposium on dyslexia, sponsored by the British Association of Singapore, was held to increase public awareness of this learning difficulty. DAS Patron, Mrs Goh Chok Tong, was the Guest-of-Honour at the opening ceremony of DAS Learning Centre in Ping Yi Primary School.

JUL

60 teachers from various primary schools attended a Dyslexia Awareness Course jointly organised by the MOE and DAS.

OCT

DAS organised a Gala Dinner to celebrate its 5th Anniversary on 27 October 1996. 

1997

JAN

Gail Hawkins, DAS Educational Consultant introduced the Orton Gillingham Approach and initiated the first teacher-parent training workshop in Singapore for Orton-Gillingham reading and math instruction.

OCT

DAS appointed its second Executive Director, Ms Zunaidah Shahul Hamid. 

DEC

Student Enrolment at DAS jumped to 188. Of these students, 128 were in the Primary One to Fourage range. 

1998

JUN

DAS invited Mr Ron Yoshimoto and Ms Jane Raissle to conduct the first Orton-Gillingham (OG) Course.

JUL

The Clementi Learning Centre was moved to Alexandra Primary School and renamed as Redhill Learning Centre.

OCT

The Redhill Learning Centre at Alexandra Hill Primary School was officially opened by Dr Aline Wong, Minister of State (Education and Health). 

DEC

Dr Aline Wong, Senior Minister of State (Education & Health) announced a MOE-DAS joint project and a starting grant of $500,000 which included $95,000 for the renovation of another DAS Learning Centre at Ping Yi Primary School. The balance was a subsidy paid over the following three years.

SEP

Enrolment at DAS grew to 223 students under the guidance of 10 teachers.

2001

JAN

DAS appointed its third Executive Director, Madam Ong Phiak Kim. 

 

MAR

DAS became a Lifetime member of the International Dyslexia Association. 

AUG

The Roshen Daruwalla Trust Fund was set up to provide support for needy dyslexic children. 

 

OCT

The Official Opening Ceremony of the DAS Ang Mo Kio Learning Centre at Anderson Primary School was held with Mrs Goh Chok Tong as the Guest-of-Honour. DAS also celebrated its 10th Anniversary with a “Wild Wild West” Gala Dinner. Enrolment stood at 341 students.

2002

FEB

Mr Hawazi Daipi, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Education officially opened the Bedok Learning Centre in Fengshan Primary School.

SEP

Mr Robin Moseley took over as the fourth Executive Director at DAS.

DEC

Redhill Learning Centre moved to Queenstown Primary School and was renamed the Queenstown Learning Centre.

2003

JAN

DAS started the Assessment Services with a team of seven psychologists. Enrolment stood at 528 students. 

SEP

Representatives from DAS attended the Orton-Gillingham International Conference in Vancouver, Canada. This marked the start of regular DAS participation in major conferences overseas. 

DEC

DAS held a press conference to announce the findings of a dyslexia awareness survey involving more than 720 parents. There was extensive media coverage on dyslexia and DAS was featured in all major newspapers and television channels. 

2004

JAN

The Lee Foundation Dyslexia Centre was set up in SPRING Singapore, Bukit Merah. This centre was established to provide assessment and training services under one roof.

FEB

DAS Training Service was launched with its first Dyslexia Support Course for parents and teachers.

MAR

DAS launched the first in a series of workshops for parents and teachers. DAS started selling educational books on its website. Executive Director, Robin Moseley, gave a talk on dyslexia to 500 preschool teachers and principals at an MOE seminar.

JUL

Student enrolment at DAS exceeded 600 for the first time. DAS launched its first Diploma in Dyslexia Studies Course in a tie-up with the University of Cambridge International
Examinations.

AUG

Education Minister, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, opened the Lee Foundation Dyslexia Centre and the Roshen Daruwalla Resource Centre. DAS Patron, Mrs Goh Chok Tong, was the VIP speaker at the opening ceremony.

2005

JAN

Speech & Language service established with three Speech and Language Therapists. Enrolment stood at 778 students.

MAR

The Rotary Club of Raffles City held a charity golf event in aid of DAS. 

JUN

DAS signed a five-year contract with MOE to train for MOE Special Needs Officers. 

JUL

DAS presents a paper at the 3rd International Multilingualism and Dyslexia Conference in Cyprus. 

DEC

President S R Nathan and Mrs Nathan visited the Dyslexia Centre at SPRING Singapore. 

2006

JAN

First Lady, Mrs Nathan visited the Queenstown Learning Centre at Anderson Primary School. DAS opens the first learning centre in a shopping mall at Bishan Junction 8. 

JUN

DAS launched the Pre-School Service. Education Minister, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, was the Guest-of-Honour at this event. 

JUL

The Rotary Club of Raffles City, together with Lions Club of Singapore New Central, held a charity golf event in aid of DAS. 

NOV

The Rotary Club of Raffles City organised an Art Competition for DAS students. Volunteers from the Deutsche Bank helped at the event. 

2007

APR

F1 Champion Sir Jackie Stewart visited DAS where he announced that DAS “could lead the world in this”.

 

JUL

DAS reaches out internationally to Hong Kong. The Orton-Gillingham course was conducted for the first batch of teachers of Tung Wah Group.

OCT

The graduation of the 1st batch of Special Needs Officers was held with Guest-of-Honour, Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister for Manpower. Enrolment stood at 1032 students.

2008

MAR

Official Opening of Bishan Learning Centre at Bishan Junction 8 officiated by Mrs Goh Chok Tong, DAS Patron.

 

JUN

DAS launched its first Advertising Campaign sponsored by Credit Suisse Singapore.

JUL

DAS won the Best Poster award at the British Dyslexia Association Conference for the poster titled “Dyslexia Friendly Survey in Singapore – Students’ views on factors critical for learning” presented by DAS Psychologists.

NOV

Graduation of the 2nd Batch of Special Needs Officers was held with Guest-of-Honour, Ms Grace Fu, Senior Minister of State, Minister of Education.

2009

JAN

Dyslexia Centre moved to Jurong Point under the NCSS Civic and Community Institution Space Scheme. This centre, for the first time, provided assessment, training and education services under one roof. DAS also opened new learning centres in Woodlands and Tampines. This marks the first time that DAS has centres situated in HDB void decks.

MAY

DAS presented at a conference organised by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals and the University of Hong Kong. DAS launches the first Dyslexia Raise Awareness Week (DRAW).
The Woodlands Learning Centre was officially opened by Mr Hawazi Daipi, MP for Sembawang GRC.

AUG

DAS conducted the first Certificate course in Dyslexia Studies for teachers from the Special Education Unit, MOE, Brunei. 

SEP

DAS conducted the first Certificate course in Dyslexia Studies for teachers from the Special Education Unit, MOE, Brunei. 

NOV

DAS organised the first Dyslexia Conference in Asia which was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Education and Second Minister of Defence. 

DEC

Preschool Service increases to 82 students. Enrolment of Main Programme stands at 1321 students. 

2010

APR

The first Dyslexia Conference was held and over 500 teachers, therapists and parents attended, along with a number of foreign delegates from Brunei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand.

MAY

DAS launched the “DAS at the libraries” to raise awareness about dyslexia. Several awareness talks in English, Malay, Tamil and Mandarin were conducted at various public libraries.

AUG

The Rotary Club of Raffles City (RCRC) held its 31st Installation Ceremony and the event was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Mr S. Dhanabalan, Chairman of Temasek Holdings. A total of $100,000 was raised for DAS at the event.

NOV

A first in Asia where topics on various aspects of SpLD were delivered, DAS Seminar Week was held over a series of five days at the Suntec Singapore Convention Centre. The event was made possible by the Lee Foundation who contributed $50,000 to support the event. Other sponsors included SPH Foundation and the Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple.

2011

MAY

The Dyslexia Raise Awareness Week was held in its third year running and featured week-long activities with interactive activities such as ‘Building Self-Esteem’ at the Singapore Management University. In the same month, DAS International was launched as a wholly-owned subsidiary of DAS. It supported Singaporeans and expatriate students on a one-to-one basis and focused on a wider range of learning differences.

JUN

The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) selected DAS as one of its four beneficiaries of its Community Investment Programme.

NOV

DAS held its third annual conference themed “Success with Technology” – a first in Asia for students and adults with specific learning differences. The focus was on Assistive Technology and how it can benefit and facilitate children’s learning.

2012

OCT

The Register of Educational Therapists (Asia) or RETA was officially launched at Traders Hotel. RETA members are classified according to their professional experiences and qualifications in the field of educational therapy.

APR

DAS opened its Tampines Learning Centre and the opening event was graced by Mr Masagos Zulkifli Bin Masagos Mohamad, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and MP for Tampines GRC.

SEP

DAS celebrated 21 years of helping individuals with learning differences with a Charity Gala Dinner which raised a total of $1.3 million. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour DPM Tharman Shanmugaratnam, DAS Patron Mrs Goh Chok Tong, DAS Executive Committee members and major donors. There was a performance by DAS students as well as a charity auction.

2013

JUL

DAS opened its 11th centre at Chinatown Point. The centre will serve as a hub for the new Chinese Remediation Programme and will also offer other DAS services to meet the rising demand for specialist education. The launch event was graced by Mr Sam Tan, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Mayor, Central Singapore District.

JUN

More than 100 parents and educators attended the first ever DAS Preschool Seminar to learn about specific learning difficulties that preschool children face.

NOV

DAS held its Workshop Series themed “A Practical Approach to Learning” from 18 to 20 November, with sharing of the knowledge and expertise of local and international experts such as Susan Lowell and Dr Kate Saunders.

2014

JAN

DAS publishes its first research journal, The Asia Pacific Journal of Developmental Differences. This was to encourage research into dyslexia and related learning differences in the region as well as amongst DAS staff. The journal’s editor is Emeritus Professor Angela Fawcett.

MAR

DAS officially opened our 13th centre on 17 March. The Chairman of the Citizen’s Consultative Committee, Minister for Health Mr Gan Kim Yong was the Guest of Honour. Mr RajeshMalkani generously donated $300,000 to the building of the centre in the name of his late mother Mrs RatnaMalkani. Mr Malkani’s donation is the largest donation ever from an individual donor.

APR

The Specialised Educational Services (SES) was launched as a division of the Dyslexia Association of Singapore. SES aims to uncover the true strengths of individuals with learning differences and empower them with the necessary skills and strategies to succeed. The mission of SES is to unlock the potential of individuals with learning differences.

JUN

Starhub donates $160,500 for children from lower income families to attend the DAS SES Essential Maths Programme.

The largest student graduation ceremony to date was organised with 165 students graduating from the main literacy programme. Ten students received the OCBC-GTIB DAS Scholarship of $5000 each, to be used to further their education.

AUG

DAS launched EMBRACE DYSLEXIA, a campaign that seeks to bring greater awareness of dyslexia to Singapore and garner greater support for students and families. The campaign consists of events such as the Embrace Dyslexia Dinner and Seminar with famous guest speakers such as Thomas G. West, who is dyslexic himself. The campaign also includes a call for adults who are dyslexic and willing to share their personal stories as a form of encouragement and inspiration to people with learning differences. EMBRACE DYSLEXIA also aims to work with corporations and organisations in providing a dyslexia-friendly workplace for their staff.

SEP

After 12 years of service at DAS, Mr Robin Moseley retired from the post of Chief Executive Officer and the baton was handed over to Mr Lee Siang, who had joined DAS in 2001 and has played a key role in the rapid growth of DAS into a thriving social enterprise.

2015

FEB

DAS Salutes The Rotary Club Raffles City (RCRC) for Initiating the DAS 25 years ago and its continuing Support to Help Students with Dyslexia.  DAS unveiled a plaque in commemoration of the initiation of DAS by the RCRC.  At the event, RCRC also announced the donation of $34,000 in funds to DAS.

 

A visit to DAS Rex House Centre on 26 February 2015 by Ms Sim Ann, Minister of State, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Communications and Information and Ms Denise Phua, MP for Moulmein-Kallang GRC, Mayor Central Singapore District, and President of the Autism Resource Centre where a wide range of topics regarding developments for the support of children with dyslexia was discussed.  

APR

For the second year running, DAS organised the Preschool Seminar to a sold-out crowd of preschool educators and parents. The seminar was extremely well-received; garnering praise from participants and for the first time featured an overseas guest speaker Dr Hugh Catts from the USA.

JUN

Uniting Ideas in Teaching Excellence: Specific Learning Differences (UnITE SpLD) 2016 is the first-ever conference organised by DAS Academy. Attendees came together to share and discuss ideas in supporting children with learning needs and encourage a community of practice in this area. The Guest of Honour was NCSS CEO Mr Sim Gim Guan.

AUG

In conjunction with EZ-Link, DAS organised an art competition for our students where the winning designs would be printed on EZ-Link cards to be sold islandwide. A portion of the proceeds amounting to $50,000 from the sales was donated to DAS. Specialised Educational Services (SES) crossed the milestone of 1,000 students enrolled as of 22 Aug. The Maths Programme leads the way with 269 students while the Preschool Programme has 266 students. Other SES programmes include Chinese, Exam Skills, SLT, Specialist Tutoring, Speech and Drama, etc.

SEP

DAS Academy celebrated its largest graduating cohort yet with their Graduation Ceremony 2015. Held at the Lifelong Learning Institute, more than 80 students graduated from DAS Academy’s higher-education courses such as Specialist Diplomas and Master of Arts programmes. The guest-of-honour was MR Hawazi Daipi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education and Manpower.

OCT

MOE-Aided Literacy Programme achieved a significant milestone by crossing the 3,000 students enrolled mark as at 17 October (3,007 to be exact).  

NOV

Embrace A Different Kind of Mind: Personal Stories of Dyslexia is the DAS’ first-ever published book containing more 57 stories of local heroes who have risen above their learning differences to make their mark in Singapore and beyond.

The annual Student Graduation and Awards Ceremony was graced this year by our patron, Mrs Goh Chok Tong as well as Guests of Honour Ms Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Social and Family Development and Ministry of Education. This was the largest graduation ceremony yet with a total of 238 graduates from our MOE-aided DAS Literacy Programme (MAP).  There were also Special Awards for excellence. For the first time, DAS recognised the role of our Educational Therapists by introducing the MAP Educational Therapist of the Year award.

DAS CEO Lee Siang appointed to the Board of the International Dyslexia Association reflecting the increasing international reputation of the DAS.

2016

MAR

The annual Preschool Seminar experimented with a change in format this year, holding concurrent workshops filled with practical tips and strategies for educators and parents to learn. Participants and Guest Speaker Dr Charles Haynes (USA) were very impressed with the workshops. This year’s seminar was sponsored by NTUC Income OrangeAid who expressed admiration at the DAS’ continuing efforts to support preschool children with literacy difficulties.

MAY

Computerised Curriculum Based Assessments (CBA). MOE-Aided Literacy Programme (MAP) will fully launch their one of its kind computerised CBAs to monitor the progress of the 3,000 students on the MAP.

JUN

The second UNITE SpLD Conference was held on 23 June 2016. The theme was “Research Worth Sharing” with international and DAS presenters sharing their research in the area of Specific Learning Difficulties.

JUL

It was a sad period for DAS as founding President Dr Jimmy Daruwalla passed away. Dr Daruwalla was part of the team who founded the Association and has always taken a close interest in the events and happenings. He is fondly remembered and well respected by all staff and his legacy continues to guide the work at DAS.

OCT

DAS 25th Anniversary Carnival was held at the Toa Payoh HDB Hub and saw many members of the public participating and celebrating DAS’ 25th birthday. Live performance, stage games, exhibitions and booths allowed the public to engage with our staff to learn more about dyslexia and the range of services that DAS offers.

DAS 25th Anniversary Charity Dinner was held at Hotel Jen to raise funds for the Dyslexia Association of Singapore. The dinner was graced by Guest of Honour Ms Low Yen Ling, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Trade and Industry, Mayor, South West CDC. 

NOV

Shakespeare 400, the SES Speech and Drama Arts Programme held their second end-of-year production at Genexis Theatre to a crowd of 200. 38 students from the SDA programme from 3 learning centres performed adaptations of famous playwright William Shakespeare’s works, and were featured in the local news for their efforts.

Student Graduation 2016 was held at Kallang Theatre with 219 graduands and more than 50 award winners who were celebrated for the achievements outside of academic work. The Guest of Honour for the Student Graduation is Dr Janil Puthucheary, Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of Education. 

2017

JAN

Extension of the Specialised Educational Services – Chinese Programme to Secondary One Students 

APR

First time five speakers from DAS presented at the Language, Literacy & Learning Conference 2017 co-organised by Dyslexia – SPELD Foundation, AUSPELD and the International Dyslexia Association from March 30 to April 1, at the Perth Conference and Exhibition Centre.

JUN

More than 400 practitioners, learners and caregivers attended the third UNITE SpLD conference held from 19 to 21 June 2017 with a three-day format. With the recurring theme “Research Worth Sharing“ more than 60 international and local field experts presented new and cutting-edge research on identification and intervention of dyslexia and other SpLDs.

JUL

Clearly Different: Dyscovering the Differences was launched. The coffee-table book, authored by Dr William Wan and published by DAS, the book chronicles DAS’ humble beginnings in 1991 to the organisation it is today. The book can be purchased on the DAS Webstore.

OCT

DAS kicked off World Dyslexia Awareness Week 2018 with a campaign titled Embracing Diversity: Dyslexia and other SpLDs! From 2 to 8 October 2017, DAS organised a slew of activities such as the tongue twister challenge aimed at increasing awareness of dyslexia and other Specific Learning Differences. 

The Assessment Services at DAS was launched as SpLD Assessment Services during the week. DAS is now able to assess not just for dyslexia, but also other specific learning difference (SpLD).

NOV

More than 30 DAS students visited Singapore President Mdm Halimah Yacob at the first ever Picnic@Istana. 

Journey of the Legends, a theatrical production put up by the SES Speech and Drama Arts Programme, was staged on 21 November 2017 at Gateway Theatre. 3 myths/legends from the Indian, Malay and Chinese literature were played by 40 students, enabling them to have an understanding of muticulturalism and interdisciplinary education.

2018

MAR

The 6th Preschool Seminar was a resounding success! It saw the largest turn out of March 16, 2018, with more than 300 participants ranging from preschool teachers, specialists, educators and parents come together to pick up practical tips and strategies to support preschool children in their literacy development. DAS also announced the expansion of partnership with PAP Community Foundation (PCF) to support preschool children with literacy delay.

APR

Five DAS presentations at the 11th British Dyslexia Association International Conference and EXPO at Telford, the United Kingdom from 12 to 14 April.

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Launch of the Specialised Educational Services Preschool programme at the PCF Sparkletots Large Learning Centre at Marsiling.

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DAS’ first Charity Movie Screening was held on April 26, 2018. The movie picked was Avengers’: Infinity War. The event raised $36,000 from ticket sales, all proceeds went to the DAS Bursary Fund to support children from low-income families afford intervention programmes. 

MAY

On 23 May, the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) hosted its inaugural Charity Golf and Dinner at the Tanah Merah Country Club to raise funds for children with dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLD) from low-income families. Mr Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Education, graced the event as guest-of-honour, together with special guest, Mrs Goh Chok Tong, beloved Patron of DAS. DAS raised a total of $375,000 from the event.

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DAS officially opened its 14th learning Centre on 31 May. The Guest of Honour for the opening was Mr Seah Kian Peng, Adviser to the Marine Parade GRC GROs and Member of Parliament for the Marine Parade GRC as well as our DAS Patron, Mrs Goh Chok Tong. The centre at Serangoon Central aimed to expand its reach to students with dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLD) in the north-east of Singapore. The Serangoon Learning Centre is the first of many centres to have smart facilities and educational technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) that will transform the way our students learn.

JUN

The 4th Annual UNITE SPLD Conference was held from 20 to 22 June and saw more than 450 participants and more than 65 presenters and researchers from all over the world gather to share about supporting students with learning differences. This conference showcased research that covers aspects of behavioural, literacy and social-emotional support, intervention and assessment for children with special learning needs.

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The Science Explorer Short-Term Programme was launched on 29 June. Designed to provide Primary 5 and 6 students with Science literacy, processes, vocabulary knowledge and application of conceptual understanding and skills to answer Science exam questions.

JUL

DAS was one of the 13 beneficiaries of the UOB heartbeat run that raised more than $1,250,000 to support underprivileged and special needs children and youth. Staff and students gathered on 8 July and joined the 5km fun run in support of the event. The amount donated to DAS went towards art and literacy programmes that aid children with Dyslexia, in areas of language development, memory and sequencing.

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DAS Academy launch the enhanced Specialist Diploma in Specific Learning Differences and the enhanced Masters in Special Educational Needs / Additional Learning Needs.

OCT

The first week of October commemorates the annual World Dyslexia Awareness Week. From 1 to 7 October, a host of events were held to raise awareness about dyslexia. Together with the ‘I Wish You Know’ Dyslexia awareness video, the Dare to Dream fundraising campaign was launched at the start of the week. The campaign raised $238,000 in funds to help low-income families access intervention programmes through bursaries. We also organised activities such as a talk on Starting School Right, a workshop on Helping Your Child with Dyslexia and ADHD Behaviour. a seminar for professionals and parents working with children with specific learning differences, tips on Exam and Study Skills and lastly, UOB-DAS Exhibition at UOB Plaza.

NOV

The Annual DAS Student Graduation and Achievement Awards Ceremony celebrated the largest graduating cohort of 173 students from the Main Literacy Programme having attained competency in literacy. 152 students were also presented with achievement awards to recognise their progress in their literacy skills; emergent, functional to advanced.

2019

APR

On 5 April 2019, Mr K Kesavapany launched his biography titled “From Estate to Embassay- Memoirs of an Ambassador” co-authored with Anitha Devi Pillai. The royalties and proceeds from sales of the first 300 signed books were donated to the DAS. More than $14,000 was raised for our students on a bursary.

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DAS charity movie screening of the blockbuster Avengers Endgame on 27 April 2019 was a great success. The event was sponsored by UOB Business Banking. DAS staff, students, friends and family came together in support of this event. Two cinema halls were sold out and we raised a total of $40,000 for our cause.

JUN

The launch of iReach Programme and three short-term programmes; iStudySmart, Science Explorers, Artventure.

OCT

DAS Academy in launch the first e-learning course, Certificate in Understanding Dyslexia in collaboration with the Singapore University of Social Sciences – UniLEARN platform.

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On 6 October, the Dyslexia Association of Singapore organised the ‘Score for Dyslexia’ charity football event, co-organised with Sports Singapore and ActiveSG Football Academy for the finale to the World Dyslexia Awareness Week.

Six Members of Parliament (MPs) teamed up with 20 local football icons from the past three decades – in one of their largest reunions to-date, to raise awareness of dyslexia and funds for children with dyslexia and other Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) who are from lower-income families. They played a total of three matches against a star-studded team comprising seven celebrity artistes and F17 Academy coaches.

NOV

The 17th Student Graduation & Achievement Awards Ceremony was held on 26 November 2019 at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). The event celebrated 357 DAS students from across 14 DAS Learning Centres and their achievements in both academic and non-academic pursuits.

DEC

Dyslexia Association of Singapore received the Charity Transparency Award. The Charity Governance and Transparency Awards give recognition to charities with good transparency and disclosure practices, which are important pillars of good governance.The awards ceremony was held on 3 December 2019 at One Farrer Hotel where DAS President, Mr Eric Lee, received the award from Chairman of Charity Council, Dr Gerard Ee. A total of 67 charities were lauded for their transparent and timely manner in communicating information to their stakeholders.

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DAS partnered with Pastamania from 31 May to 31 December 2019 to raise a total of $10,570 through the sale of 1,000 Pastamania food vouchers.

2020

JAN

In January, Singapore Teochew Foundation (STF) pledged the largest donation of $814,470 to date, to fund DAS students who qualify for 100% bursary. The assistant fund contributes to Psychological Assessments, DAS classes for Primary School students and DAS classes for Secondary School students.

MAR

On Tuesday, 17 March 2020 the eighth edition of the Preschool Seminar was delivered as an online seminar for the first time to ensure the safety of participants in light of COVID-19. Despite its online format, sign-ups for the online seminar came through reasonably well. The DAS welcomed 206 participants to its first online Preschool Seminar a purposeful blend of deep exploration of topics emphasising the importance of early intervention and workshops imparting practical tips to help preschool learners achieve.

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As the COVID-19 situation was developing in Singapore the DAS at the request of the MOE, shifted all classes for 3000 students to Home Based Learning to enhance the safety of our students. Students continued classes online with minimal disruptions and were provided with additional take-home learning pack resources. 

APR

In April, DAS received a cheque donation of $300,000 from Lee Foundation. This was in response to our appeal for funds to construct a new learning centre in Yishun Central block 935. Our existing learning centre in Yishun Central Block 932 has only four classrooms. The new centre will enable DAS to augment a growing demand for our services in the Yishun area.

JUN

The sixth UNITE SpLD (Uniting Ideas in Teaching Excellence: Specific Learning Differences) Conference 2020 for the first time completely virtual from 24 to 25 June 2020 to motivate teaching excellence for dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLD). The new digital format enabled educators and parents from around the world to benefit from leading-edge research findings, new practical solutions and opportunities to interact with international experts in special educational needs.

OCT

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) today launched a series of virtual events for World Dyslexia Awareness Week (WDAW) 2020 from 1 to 11 October to raise support and encourage inclusivity for people with dyslexia and specific learning differences (SpLD). WDAW 2020 is held in conjunction with the annual global dyslexia awareness month in October. The highlights include Walk for Dyslexia, Online Seminar on SpLD, Free Dyslexia Screening, International Online Forum, Webinar on Dyslexia and Dual Language Development, Dys is Talent showcase and Colours of Talent Art Competition

NOV

On 13 November, Lee Siang receives the Excellence in Leadership Award at the IDA 2020 Conference. The award honours individuals who, through their profession, tirelessly aim to improve the lives of those with dyslexia and recognises the excellence in their service to individuals with dyslexia, their families and the greater community.

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On 17 November, The Dyslexia Association of Singapore hosted a visit by President Halimah Yacob at its Rex House Learning Centre. In line with the focus of the year’s President’s Challenge on empowering people with disabilities, this momentous occasion underscores the importance of supporting children with dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLD) on their learning journey so that they can achieve their fullest potential.

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The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) will hold its 18th Student Graduation & Achievement Awards Ceremony on 28 November 2020. This annual ceremony holds special significance this year as these 341 students, from across 14 DAS Learning Centres, have risen above disruptions to their learning journey caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to make remarkable achievements in academic and other endeavours.

2021

FEB

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) is marking its 30th anniversary this year with ‘DAS30 – Embracing Dyslexia for 30 years’. Starting from 30 January, DAS will hold a series of events throughout the year to commemorate its journey in helping people with dyslexia achieve their fullest potential, share inspirational stories of individuals with dyslexia and raise greater support for dyslexia.

The heart of DAS30 is ‘EMBRACE DYSLEXIA’ a movement launched by DAS in 2014 to debunk common misconceptions about dyslexia, encourage people with dyslexia to embrace their learning differences and call organisations to take greater action in supporting the dyslexia community.

DAS also launched the EMBRACE DYSLEXIA pledge to promote commitment, support, donation and action amongst local communities for dyslexia. Local businesses can also pledge their commitment to enhancing awareness,  opportunities and advocacy for dyslexia at the workplace.

MAR

After a year where learning has been heavily disrupted by COVID-19, the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) is organising Preschool Seminar 2021 on 17 March 2021 with the aim of helping educators, and parents compensate, catch up and put preschoolers back on the best learning course moving forward.

Themed ‘Bouncing Back: Pathway to Success’, the seminar focused on the importance of early literacy intervention, building resilience and grit as well as enhancing executive functioning skills among young learners, to help them excel in an increasingly demanding educational landscape. 

APR

On 26 April 2021, Dyslexia Association of Singapore Limited (“DAS Ltd”), a company limited by guarantee, was incorporated in Singapore. DAS Ltd is governed by its Constitution. Its members and Board of Directors are the existing life members and Executive Committee members of DAS respectively. DAS Ltd was registered as a charity on 29 June 2021. It has been an Institution of a Public Character (IPC) since 25 August 2021.

JUN

On 24 and 25 June 2021, the Dyslexia Association of Singapore delivered the seventh edition of the UNITE SPLD (Uniting Ideas in Teaching Excellence: Specific Learning Differences) conference virtually to both a Singapore and global audience. Researchers, parents, teachers and practitioners gather to delve into the latest international research findings and practical strategies that could help children with Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) and special educational needs rise above learning challenges to achieve their maximum potential.

AUG

On 6 August 2021, the DAS entered into a transfer of charitable undertaking to effect the transfer of all the assets, the liabilities, the employment of the employees and the operations and activities of the DAS collectively as a going concern, to the DAS Ltd with effect from 1 January 2022. All day-to-day transactions and activities remain unchanged and stakeholders will continue to be served by our existing DAS staff and centres.

 

OCT

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) commemorates World Dyslexia Awareness Month 2021 (WDAM) this month with a series of activities to raise funds and increase public awareness of dyslexia and other specific learning differences (SpLDs).  Dyslexia organisations all over the world are also celebrating dyslexia this month!  October 2021 also marks the culmination of the year-long DAS30 campaign of DAS – a celebration of 30 years in advancing support for children with dyslexia. Highlights of WDAM 2021 include Move for Dyslexia, encouraging participants to walk, run or cycle to raise awareness for Dyslexia and DAS Charity Golf that took place at the Laguna National Golf Resorts Club to raise funds for lower-income families.

NOV

The Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) will hold its 19th Student Graduation and Achievement Awards Ceremony on Saturday, 27th November 2021. The celebration will comprise a virtual ceremony in the morning and an in-person session in the afternoon at the DAS Rex House Learning Centre, where guest-of-honour, Mr Wong Siew Hoong, Director-General of Education will meet the award recipients.

Over 520 students to be recognised for riding out disruptions posed by COVID-19 to achieve notable milestones in their learning journey at the 19th annual ceremony.