In a collaboration aimed at fostering social impact, Singapore Management University (SMU), along with other Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the South West Community Development Council (SW CDC) to formalise the South West Community Inno Lab initiative. This MOU builds a robust network of community, government, and educational stakeholders dedicated to addressing community needs and solving real-world challenges through social innovation.
The MOU was signed between the SW CDC—representing the People’s Association—and nine IHLs, including SMU, Nanyang Technological University, the National University of Singapore, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, and Singapore Polytechnic, among others. Together with grassroots organisations, social service agencies, government bodies, and other key players in the district, the Inno Lab aims to incubate and accelerate initiatives that address pressing social issues, creating a “living lab” environment within the South West District.
Through this collaboration, students from various IHLs gain the opportunity to ideate, develop, and implement innovative solutions that respond to the district’s evolving needs, promoting experiential learning and cross-disciplinary exchanges. The Inno Lab is positioned as a social innovation incubator, where students and partners can bring their skills, knowledge, and creativity to life while making a tangible difference in the community.
During the MOU signing event, three student teams showcased their impactful projects, highlighting the range and depth of innovation this initiative can potentially foster.
STEAMunity, a joint collaboration with polytechnic students, the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) showcased an AI-driven and gamified approach to promote responsible bicycle parking and improve shared public spaces through community involvement. Another team from the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) introduced their framework to promote mental wellness in within their community. Their peer-support group, SUSS Owls, and the WILDSMarines project with NParks work to enhance well-being by connecting people with nature.
SMU’s team, Espressivo IV showcased how their efforts support people with aphasia (PWAs) to improve communication skills through music therapy, social engagement, and awareness activities. Now in its fourth year, this collaboration between SMU’s SoundFoundry and Aphasia SG empowers PWAs by enhancing their communication skills and confidence and raises public awareness of aphasia through social media and community outreach to inspire future volunteers. The project team will also be looking into initiatives to aid PWAs in workforce reintegration, underscoring SMU’s commitment to meaningful, sustained community engagement.
Speaking at the event, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth, and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ms Low Yen Ling, emphasised the MOU’s potential to empower students to collaborate with social service agencies and gain real-world experience. Describing the Inno Lab as a bridge between academia and community service, she noted how it prepares students to make meaningful impacts while sharpening their skills.
Guest-of-honour, Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration, Mr Desmond Lee, praised the MOU as a blueprint for how multidisciplinary responses can effectively address complex social challenges. By positioning the South West District as an “open classroom” and a “living lab,” the Inno Lab enables students to grow as community pathfinders and agents of change.
Through the South West Community Inno Lab, SMU and its partners reaffirm their commitment to education that transcends classroom boundaries, sparking impactful change and nurturing the next generation of socially-conscious leaders.