Koh Boon Hwee Scholars Award 2024 – Tang Yi Qwan, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences

The Koh Boon Hwee Scholars Award, once known as the University Scholars Award, recognise the accomplishments of students who have demonstrated excellent academic performance, leadership abilities, and great potential for societal contribution. The award also allows student recipients to honour their nominated teachers from their former junior college, polytechnic or equivalent institution as well as university faculty members for their dedication and contributions in inspiring and providing the student with an outstanding holistic education.

The Award goes to Tang Yi Qwan, Bachelor of Science in Mathematical and Computer Sciences (Double Major), School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences (SPMS). Yi Qwan stands out for his academic excellence and leadership. He received the ASEAN scholarship and was featured on the Dean’s List for both Mathematical Sciences and Computer Science.

He was also the President of the Rotaract Club of NTU, helping to increase membership growth, leading impactful projects and facilitating key collaborations. As President, he helped to secure funding and organised an excursion for children from low-income families and MINDS beneficiaries. Yi Qwan also participated in the Student Entrepreneurship Programme and was involved in soft launching Questee, a service exchange platform, in NTU.

His dedication to community service, leadership potential and innovative spirit meets the criteria of the Koh Boon Hwee Scholars Award.

Yi Qwan wishes to honour Dr Chan Pei Yi from the Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL). Dr Chan was Yi Qwan’s physics lecturer, whose support and patience guided Yi Qwan when he was at MCKL. Her approach, prioritising understanding and curiosity enhanced Yi Qwan’s knowledge and developed his confidence in exploring difficult subjects.

Yi Qwan also wishes to honour Associate Professor Pun Chi Seng from the SPMS. His unwavering support and readiness to clarify any doubts helped Yi Qwan improve upon his understanding and confidence. Prof Pun also served to further deepen Yi Qwan’s appreciation for quantitative finance and inspired in him a greater level of engagement and curiosity in the subject.

Congratulations once again to Yi Qwan!