NTU Engineering seniors’ gift to the next generation
A bursary established by NTU Civil and Environmental Engineering’s Class of 1987 alumni is now shaping the journeys of today’s students, including Choy Tze Hoe, who aspires to become an infrastructure engineer contributing to Singapore’s development.
Text: Sadia Roohi
Coming from a humble family, Choy Tze Hoe never imagined he would be able to afford a two-week study trip to Chongqing University last winter as a second-year Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) student at NTU.
Supported by the NTU Civil and Structural Engineering Class of 1987 Bursary (now known as NTU School of CEE), Tze Hoe was able to broaden his horizons on a study trip to China. The experience deepened his appreciation of the country’s culture and economy through visits to a maritime port, electric vehicle factories and heritage landmarks such as the Dazu Stone Carvings, famously featured in the game Black Myth: Wukong.
Besides studying, Tze Hoe has been working part-time jobs to support himself since 14. “I didn’t want to put more financial strain on my father who works as a forklift driver and my mother, who took a part-time job at a supermarket to supplement our family income,” he said.
NTU Civil and Environmental Engineering student Choy Tze Hoe is grateful for the support from his seniors, which gives him confidence to pursue his aspirations.
From an early age, Tze Hoe learned that dedication and education were the keys to a better future.
“Working at a young age taught me to appreciate money and the effort behind it. I wouldn’t say my financial situation is very bad, as I have seen others go through more challenges than me,” shared Tze Hoe.
Balancing these responsibilities has not held Tze Hoe back academically. His perseverance and commitment to learning have earned him a place on the CEE Dean’s List, along with the CEE Book Prize for his outstanding performance in the Water Resources Engineering module.
Tze Hoe received the book prize from CEE Chair Prof Chu Jian in September 2025.
Driven by a passion for sustainability, Tze Hoe envisions himself as a professional engineer shaping the built environment of tomorrow. Pointing to challenges such as rising sea levels and climate change, he hopes to make a lasting impact by designing infrastructure that is both resilient and sustainable.
“I am inspired by how the NTU programme equips us to contribute to Singapore’s future through infrastructure. I want to create sustainable, integrated systems that will help Singapore prepare for the future,” he shares.
On a personal level, he aspires to make enough to bring his parents on holiday trips.
A gift to nurture young engineers
In 2017, to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the CEE Class of 1987, about 70 graduates of Nanyang Technological Institute – NTU’s predecessor institution – joined hands to raise close to S$118,000 to establish a bursary for their juniors.
Eight CEE undergraduates have benefited so far, receiving financial aid ranging from S$4,500 to S$6,000 each year.
Tze Hoe received the bursary in Academic Year 2024, which covered part of his tuition fees.
For Tze Hoe, the bursary has lifted a significant weight off his shoulders, enabling him to focus on his studies and personal growth without financial concerns. With this support easing his challenges, he now has the freedom to seize new opportunities and broaden his horizons – for instance, he is even considering moving into a hostel to cut down on commuting time.
“I am heartened that a community of seniors and donors believes in students like me. I feel being part of a community that looks out for one another, even across generations,” he remarked. “Without their help, going through university would be much tougher. Knowing that my seniors, who once walked the same path as me, are now giving back makes me feel supported and encouraged.”
Grateful for the support, Tze Hoe has already begun finding ways to pay it forward. For example, he volunteered with the University Advancement Office during the recent Convocation as a student helper. That experience gave him the chance to thank student donors who had made gifts to NTU.
“In the future, if I can make a bigger impact on Singapore and even the world, I’ll come back to share my experiences,” he said. “I can’t say for sure that I will achieve the same heights as my seniors, but the sky’s the limit, and I’ll do my best to achieve what I can.”
What made his success possible was the generosity of others, and your support can light the way for the next student. Click here to make a gift.
