The President’s Award for Teachers (PAT) is the highest accolade for teachers. Established in 1998, this national recognition was initially accorded to outstanding school teachers for their role in moulding the future of our nation. Since 2017, the honour has been extended to educators from the polytechnics and Institute of Technical Education.

The PAT is conferred annually by the President of Singapore. Award recipients are selected based on a set of criteria that include their commitment to the character and moral development of students, and ability to motivate, challenge and inspire students to achieve their full potential. Candidates must also demonstrate deep pedagogical skills, the ability to lead and contribute to the professional growth of other teachers, and serve as role models for the teaching profession.

This year, President Halimah Yacob presented the PAT to seven recipients during MOE’s virtual Teachers’ Day Celebration on 3 September 2020. They are:

• Mdm Shanthi Deenathayalan, Guangyang Primary School
• Mdm Wong Bing Sum, Radin Mas Primary School
• Miss Yeo Cheng Yong, Fuhua Secondary School
• Mdm Ira Wati Bte Sukaimi, Mayflower Secondary School
• Mr Tang Yee Fun Francis, Outram Secondary School
• Mr Oh Chee Kiat, Institute Of Technical Education
• Dr Chia Hui Teng, Singapore Polytechnic