A comprehensive new programme to identify top talents while they are still in school, train them and provide long-term funding will be announced soon, The Straits Times understands.

It will be spearheaded from the top, with a government-led committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Education, national sports associations (NSAs) and Singapore Sports Council (SSC), among others, overseeing the charge for sporting success.

The programme is modelled after those used by Olympic powerhouses such as Australia, where a central body leads the development of elite athletes. Senior Parliamentary Secretary (Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports) Teo Ser Luck will head the new committee, which replaces the Project 0812 team.

Conceived in 2007, Project 0812 - the numerals refer to the 2008 Beijing Games and the 2012 London Games - was chaired by International Olympic Committee executive board member Ng Ser Miang. With representatives from MCYS and SSC, it aimed to groom champions in both events.

The new plan will have distinct advantages over the current system. Roping in schools to scout out athletes will widen the talent pool, for one.

Currently, NSAs are the talent-spotters. But they concentrate on those within their ranks, ignoring others outside who have the talent but may lack proper coaching, for example.

Another advantage is the funding the new plan will provide.

Money is a big headache for athletes now. Cash for training and to take part in overseas competitions is disbursed annually. Sums can vary from year to year, depending on factors such as the athlete's performance.

The new scheme will ensure long-term funding for athletes, which will come from both the Government as well as sponsors.

Read the full story in today's edition of The Straits Times.