As part of the Southeast Asia Friendship Initiative (SFI) course at the Residential College (RC4), students had the opportunity to join the Warloka village community on Flores Island, Indonesia, for a mangrove tree planting project. 3 students reflect on the impactful lessons that they could have not gained in a lecture hall.

Who pollutes the river — and who takes responsibility? Why do some show up for clean-ups while others don’t? Can public housing work without trust in institutions? These were just some of the questions RC4 students explored during the Southeast Asia Friendship Initiative (SFI) trip to Yogyakarta and Jakarta!

Aditya (Year 2) reflects on his time in STEER Himalaya; "(it) was a glimpse at a world diametrically opposed to ours: from meticulously planned towns to wild, soaring mountains; from a bustling urban jungle to timeless, whispering forests; from the relentless rush of Singapore to the graceful dance of the Himalayas. Between the peaks of the mountains flowed conversations that etched lessons into our memories – lessons of simplicity, of resilience, mindfulness and gratitude."

In July 2024, a group of RC4 students travelled to Chiang Mai, Thailand, for a research-focused trip centred on food systems resilience. The team delved into the complexities of Northern Thailand's food system through lectures at Chiang Mai University and fieldwork, engaging with individuals across various food economy sectors including paddy farm owners, community-based organic food producers, and coffee farmers.

In July 2024, a group of RC4 students embarked on a trip to Lombok and Sumba, Indonesia, as part of the module UTC2725/UTS2712: Leadership at the Fringes. The study trip centered around two pressing global issues: climate change and food security.