Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) Academy Day 2025 brought together more than 500 students, families, tutors, alumni and guests on Nov 15, marking one of the institution’s largest and most vibrant gatherings to date.
Held at One World International School, Punggol, the annual celebration honoured the achievements of SIFAS students while recognising the dedication of its educators, trustees and community contributors who continue to shape the institution’s legacy.
The event was attended by Guest of Honour Vikram Nair, Member of Parliament for Sembawang GRC, who joined the audience in applauding the accomplishments of graduating students and presenting several key awards recognising academic and artistic excellence.
This year’s graduation ceremony saw an impressive cohort of achievers:
• 11 Visharad recipients
• 13 Best Student Award winners
• 42 graduates completing the Level 8 Diploma, SIFAS’ advanced qualification
• 64 graduates awarded the Level 6 Certificate, marking a significant academic milestone
SIFAS also presented Distinguished Service Awards to former trustees E. Sukumar and Dr N. Varaprasad, acknowledging their longstanding contributions to the institution’s development.
In addition, Building Committee Awards were given to the team behind the organisation’s new Middle Road campus – an expansion that marks a transformative chapter for SIFAS.
SIFAS President K. V. Rao emphasised the significance of this achievement: “One of the greatest triumphs of recent years has been securing a new space for SIFAS after over 30 years at Starlight Road, culminating in the Middle Road Project – an initiative made possible entirely by the overwhelming support of our community.”
The evening also celebrated artistic excellence, with performances curated and choreographed by SIFAS tutors.
The audience was treated to a rich showcase spanning Carnatic and Hindustani orchestras, and Bharatanatyam and Kathak dance performances. Complementing the stage presentations was a Visual Arts Exhibition featuring more than 44 student artworks, curated by SIFAS’ Visual Arts Department tutors.
Executive Director Menaka Gopalan highlighted SIFAS’ ongoing transformation in arts education.
“Strengthening our academic foundation, 2025 saw the introduction of a new Parent-Tutor Meeting framework, with over 1,000 meaningful conversations held in just two days. This marks the third year of fully digital examinations, reflecting our ongoing transformation in arts education,” she said.
V.K. Santosh Kumar
