SINGAPORE — A volunteer youth corps will be set up so that there will be more opportunities for young Singaporeans, especially students in ITEs, polytechnics and universities, to do projects that will change Singapore and the world for the better, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong today (Aug 18).

Noting that there are more young people starting projects to meet the needs of various communities, Mr Lee said the setting up of the volunteer youth corps will help these idealistic youths who are full of energy and passion to make a difference.

The youth corps will disburse funding for projects, provide allowances for time-off for full-time community service, as well as grants to continue serving the community after graduation, said Mr Lee.

The youth corps will also offer mentors to guide and advise the youth corps for their projects, and match youths with critical needs in the community.

PM Lee announced the setting up of the volunteer youth corps as he outlined the need for a more active community at a time when Singapore is at a turning point.