Siew Kee enjoys a fulfilling career now as a senior lecturer and school-based counsellor in Temasek Polytechnic. But behind his success is a story of perseverance. He took three years of no-pay leave to pursue an honours degree in electrical engineering in the UK, where he struggled financially.

He later joined Temasek Polytechnic as a lecturer and decided to pursue a Master in Education when he turned 50. It was tough juggling work, studies and family life and he would often wake up at 4am to write his dissertation.

Despite the hard times, his quest for knowledge remained strong. He signed up for courses to learn more about counselling and became interested in it.

In 2006, he was shocked when doctors discovered a tumour near his brain. Despite undergoing major surgery, Siew Kee hit the books again when he was well enough to attend evening classes.

On top of his other qualifications, he now has a diploma in social science and professional counselling. Said Siew Kee: “If we don’t continue learning, we will be left behind.”