At 7, he’s already learning chemistry at NTU

by Tan Zi Jie / Photos by Don Tan / Video by Hanafi Ramdan & Rahila Daud

Theodore at a foundational chemistry lecture by Dr Sumod Pullarkat. The seven-year-old sits with his friends, NTU undergrads Zhou Tianya (far left), Constance Han and Samuel Chew. 

Since August this year, a seven-year-old Singaporean boy has been showing up at NTU about three times a week with his tablet, printed notes and water bottle in hand.

Accompanied by Mum or Dad, Theodore Kwan is in NTU for one- to two-hour foundational chemistry lectures, as a guest of senior lecturer Dr Sumod Pullarkat.  

Theodore is not a registered student and doesn’t join chemistry lab sessions or take tests.

He’s there purely to learn about advanced concepts he’s curious about, such as molecular orbital theory, a method that uses quantum mechanics to explain electron behaviour.

With an IQ of 154, the young prodigy loves science. Earlier this year, he became the youngest person in Singapore to  score an A for a Chemistry paper in the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE), an O Levels equivalent exam, which he took at just six years and 10 months old. 

Theodore holds five Singapore records, including one for being the first and youngest to score full marks in a science Olympiad.

NTU Deputy President and Provost Prof Christian Wolfrum says: “As a university, NTU is open to all talent. Although Theodore isn’t enrolled as a student, we are thrilled to ignite his passion in chemistry. Also, having him in class with the other undergrads creates a new chemistry that can benefit everyone.”

He adds: “Talent knows no age bracket. Whether sparked early or later, it should always be nurtured. NTU is committed to make learning available for all who are ready to explore their potential and make an impact.”

A lecturer opens doors for the budding scientist

Theodore’s mother Crystal Tang, who homeschools him and his four-year-old sister, is a PhD student at NTU’s medical school.

She first connected with Dr Pullarkat, who is also Assistant Chair (Academic) at NTU’s chemistry, chemical engineering and biotechnology school, to discuss course administrative matters.

When Dr Pullarkat found out about Theodore’s interests, he invited the budding chemist to attend his lectures.

“I thought that sitting in as a guest in my freshmen chemistry lectures would give Theodore an avenue to probe the depth of his interest in chemistry,” says Dr Pullarkat. “He now has an opportunity to explore higher level topics without the constraints of taking exams or assessments.”

“Theodore is very hungry to learn and has been asking for chemistry knowledge at higher levels, so we’re incredibly grateful for the rare opportunity to join these NTU lectures,” adds Crystal. 

Every Thursday, in a large theatre, the playful seven-year-old takes his spot near the front row with NTU undergraduates Constance Han, Zhou Tianya and Samuel Chew, who have become his new friends. He answers Dr Pullarkat’s questions eagerly, and the lecturer often walks over to hear the soft-spoken boy’s replies.

For Theodore, attending university-level lectures is a dream come true. His mother says that right after she brought him to NTU for the first lecture, Theodore asked: “Can I attend lectures every day? Can I live in NTU?”

His lecture mates would love that too.

“I look forward to seeing him in our weekly lectures. Theodore’s bright smile and cheeky antics make the class exciting. Seeing him so happy to learn is energising for me,” says environmental earth systems science freshman Constance.  

Fun-loving Theodore is focused during lectures but likes to move about and chat with NTU undergrads during lecture breaks.