Govt to create platforms for youth to discuss social issues, boost mental health support

SINGAPORE — The Government will encourage the youth in Singapore to be more engaged in national and social issues by working with them to create safe platforms “to explore and engage in a diversity of views, and help them build empathy towards those who hold different views", Mr Alvin Tan said.

The Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth said on Thursday (March 10) that as part of these efforts, the National Youth Council and Mediacorp will launch Civic Conversations, a digital engagement campaign set to begin from April to September this year, to highlight important norms and values that "guide our conversations and create spaces for respectful and deep dialogue”.

Key topics to be addressed includes race and religion, local-foreigner relations, and intergenerational bonding, he added.

The young may also take part in Instagram Live sessions with expert panels and access these content through a microsite, Mr Tan said during the parliamentary debate on his ministry's budget.

Underscoring the importance of strengthening people's mutual understanding, especially on key and contentious societal issues, he noted the growth of polarisation, cancel culture and echo chambers as open discussions on social media become more prevalent.

“We must consciously strengthen the bridges that connect us, not just across the diversity of our perspectives, but also across our different racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds,” Mr Tan urged.

He also acknowledged the importance of stronger mental health support in Singapore and the need to reinforce support for youth, because “even as the pandemic wanes, mental health issues will not disappear with it”. 

“We want our youth to know that it is okay to reach out and share about their mental health and well-being without fear of judgement,” Mr Tan said. 

MCCY will expand peer support networks across various settings such as in schools, workplaces, online and the community. MCCY and NYC are also partnering youth sector organisations, such as Campus Psy and Young NTUC, to run peer support network programmes. 

The ministry is encouraging trained peer supporters from Institutes of Technical Education, polytechnics and universities to join Youth Corps Singapore after they have graduated.  

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Giving an update on the efforts of the Youth Mental Well-being Network that the Government launched in 2020, Mr Tan said that more than 1,500 individuals, comprising young people, parents, caregivers, mental health professionals have started more than 20 ground-up projects with the aim of supporting the mental well-being of youth.

The network will be broadened to tackle mental health issues across a greater range of population segments.

“Mental health issues do not only affect our youth... For those who would benefit from these initiatives, the network could help you find useful services and initiatives more easily.

"Whether you are an organisation, a student, middle-aged (professional) or a senior looking for mental well-being support, we welcome you to be part of this effort," he said.