Fifty years ago, the idea of Singapore surviving and becoming one of the world's richest countries was unimaginable.

This was all possible because of founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, a team of politicians and our pioneers who worked very hard and dedicated their lives to building Singapore.

Today, we, the youth of Singapore, must not take this for granted. We must study hard, work hard and contribute to the nation.

We can also take up different jobs that may seem unimportant but are actually essential in the functioning of Singapore.

We must remember that in the next 50 years, there will be tough times, and we, the young, must bravely face them and lead Singapore to another milestone.

Jarrett Tan Lek Inn, 13,
Secondary 1 student