Upskilling gives early childhood educator a chance to help shape Singapore’s future generation

Ms Nur Afifah Rakif (centre) decided to switch to the early childhood education sector because of her love for children. PHOTO: MY FIRST SKOOL

SINGAPORE - After completing her Diploma in Communication and Information Design 11 years ago, Ms Nur Afifah Rakif, then 22, realised she had picked the wrong career path.

Her love for children drove her to switch to the early childhood education sector. After she was accepted into a trainee teacher programme, she took up a second diploma – in early childhood.

The 33-year-old is now the deputy centre lead at NTUC First Campus.

When Ms Afifah started teaching, it took her some time to get used to her new environment.

“It was something to adapt to. One major change was that I’m dealing with children now instead of adults. I had to change my mindset and the way I approach people,” she said.

Even after finding her footing in her new career, she was keen to improve herself with new skills wherever possible.

She is currently taking a Bachelor in Early Childhood Education with Early Childhood Education Leadership under the Singapore University of Social Sciences’ Work-Study Degree programme. She is due to graduate later this year.

The programme, launched in 2017, has taken in 197 students, with 57 having graduated.

Ms Afifah’s determination to upskill herself was mentioned in Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s speech at the debate on the President’s Address in Parliament on April 17.

He said that education cannot just be confined to the first 25 years of our lives, and learning must be a continuous journey throughout the lifetime.

Mr Wong said Ms Afifah exemplifies the spirit of lifelong learning and the value of reskilling and upskilling in pursuing one’s passions.

Though working full-time while studying was tough, Ms Afifah came through.

She said that time management was something she had to figure out initially.

Her work with young learners will have an impact on Singapore’s future generation, says Ms Nur Afifah Rakif. PHOTO: MY FIRST SKOOL

Her weeknights and weekends used to be spent reading books and painting, but she now spends them in front of her laptop attending classes or completing her assignments.

“These are the things that I have to sacrifice. If I have assignments to do, I know I can’t continue with the next chapter of a book or continue on the painting I’m working on.”

Ms Afifah said she treasures term breaks or any free time she can get as it gives her the opportunity to catch up on her hobbies.

Her family and friends, who have been understanding of her schedule and commitments, are a source of support to her.

Working in the early childhood education sector also motivates her to upskill and be a better teacher, due to the impact of the work she does.

“I see it as giving back to the community and playing a part in shaping the future, as working with young learners will have an impact on Singapore’s future generation.”

She said that upskilling has given her the opportunity to understand herself better and figure out her strengths and areas to work on.

“I think we shouldn’t be scared to venture out and do something new. There is no age limit to chasing our dreams. If you want to upskill yourself, it’s never too late.”

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