A delegation of National Cadet Corps (NCC) India cadets experienced Singapore’s multicultural society, national development and diplomatic links with India during a week-long youth exchange programme.
The team, comprising two officers and 10 cadets, visited Singapore from Aug 30 to Sept 5 under the Youth Exchange Programme (YEP) 2026, aimed at promoting international understanding, cultural exchange, friendship and leadership among young people.
The Singapore programme brought together participants from India, Singapore, Brunei and Hong Kong, giving the cadets opportunities to interact with their counterparts and learn about different cultures, lifestyles and social values.
The visit combined national education, cultural immersion, adventure and experiential learning.
At the Singapore Discovery Centre, the cadets learnt about the Republic’s history, national identity, development and future aspirations. Visits to Raffles Place and Marina Bay offered a closer look at Singapore’s transformation into a modern city-state.
The cadets also explored Kampong Glam, Bugis Street, Chinatown, Little India and Orchard Road, experiencing first-hand the multicultural character of Singapore and how different communities coexist within the city.
Adventure activities added a different dimension to the programme. Dragon Boat training tested teamwork, coordination and discipline, while Laser Tag required participants to communicate, strategise and make quick decisions collectively.
A key highlight was a visit to the High Commission of India in Singapore, where the delegation interacted with the Acting High Commissioner and other officials.
The cadets learnt about the functioning of an Indian diplomatic mission, its responsibilities towards Indians overseas and the close, multifaceted relationship between India and Singapore. The interaction also gave them a first-hand understanding of how India is represented abroad.
For the young visitors, the programme offered lessons extending beyond sightseeing and cultural exposure.
They observed Singapore’s emphasis on discipline, civic responsibility, multicultural harmony and respect for rules, while gaining an appreciation of how a geographically small country developed into a successful nation.
The exchange also allowed friendships to develop among participants from the four places, reinforcing the role young people can play in strengthening understanding across borders.
The NCC delegation returned to India on Sept 5 with new friendships, memories and experiences intended to help the cadets develop into more confident, responsible and globally aware citizens.
