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8-Year-Old Girl Feels Invisible Like a “Ghost” Rediscovers Joy of Childhood through Art

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3 months ago

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“Healing Heart & Mind” Helps Children Voice Their Inner Worlds

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – A happy childhood begins with the space to explore, grow, and develop emotional and social skills. Artistic creation is one of the pathways to a child’s inner world, encouraging them to freely express their thoughts and feelings, while fostering the resilience and positive mindset needed for the future. Save the Children Hong Kong’s Healing Heart and Mind programme not only reaches into primary schools but also actively collaborates with community partners, including setting up in grassroots service points like the Sham Shui Po Community Living Room, to provide children with psychological support and opportunities to thrive through art.
8-year-old Cara* (right) expresses her feelings through artistic creation

A “Little Adult” at Home Finds Her Childhood Again in the Community Living Room
For the local residents of Sham Shui Po, the Community Living Room is a place to meet, connect, and build a social life. But for eight-year-old Cara*, it is practically a second home. Cara and her family live in a cramped home of around 150 square feet. With the living space so tight, her three younger siblings mostly stay indoors, while Cara goes to the Living Room every day after school to do her homework and play with friends, often staying right until it is about to close. She reveals that since her siblings were born, the attention she receives from her parents has drastically decreased. At times, she even has to take on the role of caregiver, a responsibility that has gradually changed the course of her childhood.

Cara’s mother notices how little she talks to her daughter these days. “There’s definitely less time for a chat compared to when she was an only child,” she says. “Now that she has a younger brother and sister, the time I can give her has naturally lessened.” She understands in her heart that her daughter needs attention and companionship, but the immense pressure of childcare leaves her feeling powerless.

Her five-year-old son has ADHD and requires constant care, so his mother even has to accompany him during his lessons. Her three-year-old daughter and two-year-old son are also very young and need looking after around the clock. Their mother runs off her feet, with scarcely a moment to rest. Even while constantly rushing to care for her younger children, Cara’s mum tries her best to bring them to the Community Living Room to see Cara, creating the most precious family moments she can. But she is simply overwhelmed and has no time for herself. The thought that her children need her is what keeps her going; she can only grit her teeth and carry on. Meanwhile, the father works long hours to provide for the family, with hardly any days off to enjoy some family time. This helplessness and struggle are a microcosm of the reality for many families with children who have special needs—parents who long to care for each child equally but, due to limited resources and time, are forced to make difficult compromises between the ideal and the reality.

Feeling a lack of parental attention, Cara calls herself a “ghost”. “I am nothing,” she says, “just blank—no one notices me.” She sometimes resents her siblings for taking her parents’ attention away, but this feeling is not simple blame. It stems from a deep internal conflict and struggle. The social worker at the Community Living Room, who sees Cara often, has observed that as the big sister, she is deeply affectionate towards her younger siblings. When her mum is overwhelmed, she proactively helps to look after them and plays with them. She understands how exhausted her mother is and knows her siblings need care, yet at eight years old, she still longs for her parents’ love and attention. This difficult position—of being both the sensible one and a child who still craves care—causes Cara significant inner turmoil.
Expressive Art as a Key to Unlock Inner Feelings and Relieve Emotions
The social worker recalled that Cara initially struggled to express her emotions. Although she longed for her parents’ attention, she kept her feelings bottled up and would sometimes hide and cry. The only activity that brought her comfort was drawing on her phone, perhaps one reason she enrolled in the Healing Heart and Mind programme of Save the Children Kong Kong.

Through 8 art-based sessions, the programme encourages children to express their emotions through art, while learning to identify and manage different feelings. Cara said the classes allowed her to create and express herself freely, which made her ‘super happy’—and she still remembers them vividly six months later. She learned how to express herself when needed and use tools like a “calming bottle” to ease anxiety. “When I am upset, I can write it down and put it in a box,” she said.

Cara has also learnt to face her unhappy feelings with a more positive mindset. She says, “Once you learn how to manage your feelings, you won’t (verbally) lash out at other people. Now, I try to remember what I’ve learnt, happy moments, what my teacher says, and memories of my dad, mum, and grandad. I try not to dwell on the unhappy things, because that just makes you feel worse.”

Expressing feelings through art also gives parents a chance to see and appreciate their children’s talents. One child in the class shared that they usually aren’t allowed to take their projects home from art class at school, so their family never gets to see what they’ve made. For some of the children, being able to bring their work home is a simple pleasure. “My mum and dad praise me now, which makes me really happy,” says Cara. “My mum isn’t very good at drawing herself, but when she saw my artwork, she realised how well I could draw.” This newfound confidence in expressing herself has carried over into other areas of Cara’s life. She recently wrote her own play and took the initiative to invite the social worker and her friends from the Living Room to rehearse it with her. Together, they put on a brilliant performance, allowing her to express her true self through her creativity.

Kalina Tsang, CEO of Save the Children Hong Kong, grew heartfelt as she reflected on the Healing Heart and Mind programme, “Every child holds a vibrant world within—but sometimes, life’s struggles silence their voices.” The programme, she explained, works like a key for children, unlocking doors to self-expression through art. We are confident that by helping children learn how to be friends with their own emotions, they will be able to face any future challenges with a more positive and resilient attitude, grow up healthy and happy.”
Note:
* Denotes name changed to protect identity

Hashtag: #SavetheChildrenHongKong #MentalWellbeing #ExpressiveArt #HealingHeartAndMind





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Save the Children Hong Kong

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Hong Kong and around the world, we do whatever it takes – every day and in times of crisis – so children can fulfil their rights to a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. With over 100 years of expertise, we are the world’s first and leading independent children’s organisation – transforming lives and the future we share.

Established in 2009, Save the Children Hong Kong is part of the global movement which operates in around 100 countries. We work with children, families, schools, communities and our supporters to deliver lasting change for children in Hong Kong and around the world.

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SIM and the True Worth of Education: Beyond Tuition Fees

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22 hours ago

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07/12/2025

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – As Singaporean families plan for higher education, tuition costs often dominate the conversation. However, the more critical consideration lies in understanding the relationship between cost and value. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the financial implications of pursuing studies at local public universities, private institutions such as SIM, and overseas universities, while highlighting SIM’s distinctive proposition that extends beyond competitive pricing.

Local Public Universities: Affordable and Prestigious

Singapore’s autonomous universities remain among the most cost-effective options for Singapore citizens, thanks to the Ministry of Education’s Tuition Grant. For example, undergraduate programs at NUS and NTU cost around S$8,250 per year for Singaporeans, while SMU averages S$11,500 annually. Other institutions such as SUTD, SUSS and SIT fall within similar ranges, typically between S$8,000 and S$13,500 per year. Over a three- to four-year degree, this translates to roughly S$25,000 to $54,000 in tuition fees.

The autonomous universities offer strong reputations and excellent graduate outcomes, but entry to some programme is highly competitive, and program flexibility may be limited compared to private or overseas options.

Overseas Universities: Prestige Comes at a Price

For families considering an overseas education, costs escalate dramatically. Tuition at U.S. private universities averages US$50,000 to US$60,000 per year (about S$70,000 to S$84,000), with living expenses adding another US$10,000 to US$15,000 annually. In the UK, fees range from £10,000 to £38,000 per year (approximately S$17,000 to $65,000), while Canada and Australia typically charge S$14,000 to $28,000 for tuition alone. Factoring in accommodation, travel, and insurance, a four-year overseas degree can easily exceed S$150,000.

While these programs offer prestige and cultural immersion, they also involve significant financial, visa, and lifestyle considerations.

SIM Global Education: International Degrees at Local Cost

SIM offers a compelling alternative for students seeking global credentials without the high cost of studying abroad. Through partnerships with leading universities from the UK, Australia, the U.S., Canada, and Europe, SIM delivers more than 140 programs in Singapore, allowing students to earn internationally recognized degrees, essentially the same degree if you studied overseas, but locally at SIM. Tuition fees vary by program, for example, a University of London BSc ranges from S$26,685 to S$42,835, a University of Birmingham top-up degree costs S$42,000 to S$57,100, and a degree from the University at Buffalo falls between S$41,700 and S$74,600 for Singaporeans.

Beyond competitive pricing, SIM emphasizes value. Degrees are awarded by partner universities and aligned with global academic standards. The institution holds EduTrust Star certification and ISO accreditation, ensuring the best quality assurance. Students benefit from bond-free scholarships and bursaries, as well as Career Connect services that provide internships, mentoring, and employer networking. Graduate outcomes are strong, with nearly 80% of SIM graduates securing employment within six months of graduation.

Why Value Matters as Much as Cost

Choosing a degree isn’t just about tuition fees, it’s about the total investment, which includes living costs, global recognition, and career outcomes. Local autonomous universities such as NUS, NTU, and SMU remain highly attractive for their subsidized fees and strong reputations, making them one of the most cost-effective options for Singaporeans. However, entry is competitive, and program flexibility may be limited.

On the other end of the spectrum, overseas universities offer prestige and cultural immersion but often come with six-figure costs and additional living expenses. This is where SIM provides a strategic middle ground, delivering internationally recognized degrees from leading global universities at local cost. Students gain access to global curricula, industry-ready skills, and career networks without the financial burden of relocating overseas. For families seeking international exposure at sustainable costs, SIM combines affordability with the value of global education

References:

  1. NUS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.nus.edu.sg/registrar/docs/info/administrative-policies-procedures/ugtuitioncurrent.pdf
  2. NTU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.ntu.edu.sg/docs/default-source/onestop@sac/2025/tuition-fees-ft-ay2025_12mar25.pdf?sfvrsn=b8c5474_1
  3. SMU Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://admissions.smu.edu.sg/financial-matters/tuition-fees-grant
  4. SUTD Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.sutd.edu.sg/admissions/undergraduate/education-expenses/fees/tuition-fees/
  5. SUSS Fees for Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
  6. SIT Fees from Undergraduate Programmes – https://www.suss.edu.sg/admissions/financial-matters/tuition-fee-subsidy/full-time-undergraduate
  7. Comparison of Tuition Fees in US, UK, Canada and Australia – https://uninist.com/blog/financial-planning/comparison-of-tuition-fees-guide
  8. How much does college cost in 2025 – https://research.com/universities-colleges/how-much-does-college-cost
  9. Price of attending undergraduate institutions – https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cua
  10. University of London Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=1%7C
  11. University of Brimingham Bachelor Degree – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing?academic=2%7C&programmetype=1%7C3&university=10%7C

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

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A-Level vs Polytechnic: Understanding different pathways offer competitive edge at SIM

Published

2 days ago

on

06/12/2025

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 December 2025 – Singapore’s education system offers two popular tertiary pathways after post-secondary, A-Levels through Junior Colleges and Polytechnic diplomas. Both leading to higher education but differ in focus. A-Levels are academically rigorous and theory-driven, preparing students for university through subject-based learning over two years at junior colleges or three years at Millennia Institute.

Conversely, Polytechnic programmes emphasize applied learning, incorporating projects and industry attachments, and culminate in a diploma after three years. Understanding how these distinct approaches translate into admission considerations at SIM, one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions, is essential.

For students and parents, evaluating these options is critical to determining which pathway offers the greatest advantage in today’s competitive education landscape.

Applying with A-Levels

For students who have completed A-Levels, SIM requires applicants to meet the academic and English language criteria specified for each degree programme. According to SIM’s admissions process, candidates must submit their GCE A-Level certificates and transcripts along with other supporting documents. Entry is subject to programme-specific requirements set by SIM and its universities partner from Australia, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This pathway allows applicants to begin their degree studies immediately after junior college, provided they meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen programme.

Applying with a Polytechnic Diploma

Polytechnic graduates may be eligible for advanced standing and credit exemptions when applying to SIM’s degree programmes. The amount of exemption depends on the relevance of the diploma and the chosen degree. For example, IT-related diplomas from local polytechnics can receive up to two years of credit exemptions for certain programmes, such as those offered by the University of Wollongong, provided the applicant meets GPA requirements (typically 2.0 or above). Other diplomas may receive partial exemptions on a case-by-case basis. These exemptions reduce both time and cost, making SIM an attractive option for Polytechnic graduates who want to build on their applied learning experience.

Why It Matters

According to the Ministry of Education (MOE) statistics in 2021, roughly one in three Polytechnic graduates progress to local autonomous universities, compared to about four in five A‑Level and International Baccalaureate graduates. This gap underscores the importance of additional pathways such as SIM, which enable Polytechnic graduates to earn globally recognised degrees and expand their career prospects.

Student Stories: Two Potential Paths to Success at SIM

At SIM, students have the flexibility to shape their academic journey based on their background and career goals. For some, it’s about gaining a head start; for others, it’s about leveraging credit exemptions to fast-track progress. Ashley Ong and Violet Weng exemplify these two pathways, each leading to success in its own way.

Ashley Ong, an A-Level graduate, chose to begin her degree journey with the University at Buffalo Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She embraced every opportunity SIM offered such as internships, hackathons, and networking events, building practical skills and global perspectives that prepared her for a competitive business world.

Meanwhile, Violet Weng, a Singapore Polytechnic graduate, opted for a different approach. While pursuing her RMIT Bachelor of Business (Economics and Finance), Violet leveraged SIM’s credit exemptions to shorten her study duration and reduce costs, all while working full-time. This flexibility allowed her to balance work and study, accelerate graduation, and advance her career without compromise.

Both stories highlight SIM’s commitment to offering customized pathways for students whether you’re starting fresh or building on prior learning.

Conclusion

Whether you come from an academic route like A-Levels or an applied learning path through Polytechnic, the journey to a degree can look very different. A-Level graduates often enjoy a head start with direct entry, while Polytechnic graduates benefit from credit exemptions that recognize their practical skills. Both pathways reflect Singapore’s evolving education landscape where flexibility and global opportunities matter more than ever.

References:

  1. MOE Post-Secondary – https://www.moe.gov.sg/post-secondary/
  2. SIM Application Process – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/application-process
  3. SIM-UOW Credit Exemption Table – https://www.sim.edu.sg/getmedia/9c0ad90d-5910-4d47-b044-f815188a4b16/sim002856.pdf
  4. MOE Education Statistics Digest – https://www.moe.gov.sg/about-us/publications/education-statistics-digest
  5. Polytechnic graduates progression and subsidies for PEIs – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/parliamentary-replies/20210510-polytechnic-graduates-progression-and-subsidies-for-peis
  6. askST: How many uni places are there for Singaporeans? Is there a quota for poly grads? – https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/how-many-uni-places-for-locals-any-quota-for-poly-grads
  7. How 6 internships, 4 hackathons, and CCAs paved the way for Ashley – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-6-internships-4-hackathons-and-ccas-paved-the-way-for-ashley
  8. How this graduate pivoted her career by pursuing a degree while working full time – https://www.sim.edu.sg/articles-inspirations/how-this-graduate-pivoted-her-career-by-pursuing-a-degree-while-working-full-time

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

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K. Wah Group Donates Additional HK$12.07 Million for Tai Po Recovery

Published

2 days ago

on

06/12/2025

By

Chairman Mr. Francis Lui Urges Public to Turn Compassion into Action and Vote 7 December

HONG KONG SAR – Wechat: 嘉华集团 K. Wah Group

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About K. Wah Group

K. Wah Group was founded in 1955 by Dr. Lui Che Woo and has since grown into a diversified multinational corporation. Its core businesses span property development and investment, integrated resort and entertainment, hospitality, and construction materials.

The Group has a strong presence in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Southeast Asia, and key international markets. Its major subsidiaries include two Hong Kong-listed flagships: K. Wah International Holdings Limited (HKEX: 00173), focused on premium property development and investment; and Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (HKEX: 00027), a constituent of the Hang Seng Index and a leading gaming and entertainment operator in Macau. Other key members of the Group include Stanford Hotels International and K. Wah Construction Materials Limited. Today, K. Wah Group comprises over 200 subsidiaries worldwide.

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