Kalpana Sharma
Updated on: October 13, 2024 10:32 am GMT
The Saverin family’s substantial donation to the Singapore American School marks a new chapter in educational philanthropy in Singapore. With a gift of S$20 million (approximately US$15 million), the co-founder of Facebook, Eduardo Saverin, is investing not just in bricks and mortar, but in the future of education for thousands of students.
A Transformative Gift for Education
The announcement made by the school’s Superintendent, Tom Boasberg, reveals that this historic contribution is set to bring transformative changes to the Singapore American School (SAS). As the largest single donation in the institution’s history, it will specifically enhance facilities for students from pre-kindergarten through high school.
In his communication dated September 20, Boasberg emphasized the donation’s significance and its anticipated impact. He stated that the funds would be directed toward a range of improvements, including:
- World-class play spaces for younger students
- Cutting-edge STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) labs
- Enhancements to a new elementary school currently under construction
- A Chinese immersion program aimed at broadening language skills
- Other strategic priorities that align with the school’s educational goals
A Family Commitment to Education
Elaine Saverin, Eduardo’s wife, expressed their family’s vision behind the donation. She hopes the funds will reach thousands of current and future students at SAS, reaffirming their commitment to the school community. “This gift is a significant and meaningful way for our family to demonstrate our commitment to the school,” she noted, highlighting a genuine desire to positively impact education in Singapore.
The decision to invest in SAS is notable considering that the family has deep roots in the community. Eduardo Saverin, originally from Brazil, settled in Singapore in 2009 and completed the process of renouncing his U.S. citizenship in 2011. This decision came just before Facebook’s initial public offering, a move that has forever linked him to the tech giant and amassed him a fortune estimated at around US$30.5 billion, according to Bloomberg data.
About Singapore American School
Founded in 1956, the Singapore American School has grown to accommodate about 4,000 students. Located in Woodlands, the school boasts a sprawling campus designed to foster a diverse and robust learning environment. Tuition for high school students is currently approximately S$49,000 (around US$37,000) annually, a fee that does not cover additional costs for transportation and materials.
With a strong emphasis on a comprehensive education, SAS offers a range of programs and extracurricular activities aimed at enriching student experience. As they move forward with this donation, the school aims to become a leader in educational innovation and facility enhancement.
Caption: The Singapore American School aims to provide an enriching learning environment for its students.
Broader Implications of Philanthropy in Singapore
The Saverin donation comes at a time when philanthropic efforts are increasingly recognized for their potential to drive educational and social progress. Successful individuals, particularly those with ties to influential networks, are leveraging their resources to fund initiatives that will have lasting impacts on society.
In Singapore, this trend is becoming more pronounced, with various organizations and individuals stepping up to address gaps in education, healthcare, and community support. Such contributions play a crucial role in enhancing opportunities for young learners and promoting a culture of giving back.
Looking Ahead
As the Singapore American School prepares to utilize the S$20 million donation from the Saverin family, the anticipation surrounding the transformative effects on students is palpable. The improvements will not only enhance learning environments but also position SAS as a key player in leading educational excellence in the region.
With the ongoing developments in their facilities and programs, the school community will continually adapt to meet the needs of its students. The Saverin family’s commitment underscores the critical role of private philanthropy in shaping educational landscapes and enriching the lives of future generations.
Eduardo and Elaine Saverin are helping to make education better for everyone. By supporting the SAS community, they show how much they care and encourage others to think about how they can help, too. Their work is opening up new ways to improve learning, and they are dedicated to creating a friendly and creative place for students to grow.
