In SAS, we can achieve

Welcome to SAS. Welcome to the Republic. Welcome to Tanglin Campus

On 2nd May 2003 the staff of the Republic moved into the two towers of RP. For many of us it was the first look at a building we had looming behind the Strathmore where we spent the first 7 months @Tanglin Campus. In the ensuing weeks, the towers got their finishing touches with the significant milestone being the partial opening of "MegaBites@RP" on 2 June 2003.

I had a feeling of déjà vu the day I moved into the building. Most of it is hidden but it was the retro mosaic on the stairs and "60s" windows that gave it away. We were in an old building that had been rehabilitated. This is great. Ever since I heard about San Francisco's South of Market lofts and had the good fortune to visit some of them, I wanted to see how I could connect with the ambience of the pass to inspire the future.

While we are not in San Francisco, Tanglin Campus is historical and we have the same aspirations as San Franciscans, of being knowledge workers and building a knowledge economy build on the achievements of our past. Tanglin Campus was knowledge economy build on the achievements of our past. Tanglin Campus was of course the seat of the Ministry of Education being its headquarters for many years and it is rumored that the furniture of previous Minster's of Education can still be found on Campus!

However, while we have not taken pains to draw out the history of the building, indeed in the typical Singapore utilitarian fashion we have hidden most of the old and renovated it in a contemporary style. Still the campus had not lost its charm like some of its quirks; single lifts that stop only at some floors. Its charm remains. It is principally retained in the grounds and general ambience. The green canopy is something to be proud of. The landscaping is done sensitively and merges well with existing foliage. The library completes a quadrangle of sorts providing an architectural focus to the two towers. All in all, there is a sense of the old amongst the new.

I wonder what the voices of the pass and ghosts of memories that linger in the halls and corridors of Tanglin Campus have to tell us?

Nothing but inspiration I hope! The most creative and innovative people chose to work and live in the rehabilitated lofts of San Francisco. By a twist of fate we too have "chosen" to start in a rehabilitated building. Like those creative souls we may get that extra spark of creativity that comes with being in the right place (at the right time!). Tanglin Campus, where the old has a new face and newer inhabitants, is an anchor to take on the future. It tells us we are well rooted; we know where we come from and should not be afraid to take on what is to be. While we look forward to the next 3 years and then Woodlands, I believe we will be able to bring to life a rich and special heritage for the Republic. Let's make it happen. Let our journey begin.

Dr Terence Chong
Director, SAS