- The legacy of Duke-NUS’ founding donor, the estate of Khoo Teck Puat, continues with a transformation S$5.5 million donation for research.
- The HEAD Foundation is mobilizing with a 200,000 Singapore dollars scholarship, supporting Duke-NUS’ commitment to developing medical expertise.
SINGAPORE, January 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Duke-NUS Medical School celebrated its 20th anniversary with a major philanthropic milestone, securing more than 30 million Singapore dollars in funding that will enrich advanced medical research and education. These contributions reflect the community’s strong support for Duke-NUS’s leading role in medical innovation and education.
The philanthropic achievements at tonight’s gala have paved the way for future medical innovations and breakthroughs. A highlight was the S$5.5 million donation from the estate of Khoo Teck Puat, our most significant benefactor with a history of contribution 80 million Singapore dollars at the School in 2007.
From this last gift, S$3.5 million will be contributed to the Khoo Teck Puat Translational Research Fund to support projects with significant potential for translation into clinical applications such as effective medical therapies and/or drugs.
The inaugural project will focus on developing new tools to diagnose cardiometabolic diseases and fund metabolomics research led by Professor Wang Yibin, Director of the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program at Duke-NUS. With therapeutic options currently limited, the donation will be essential to the development of a cutting-edge metabolism research center within the School. It will also help Professor Wang and his team acquire cutting-edge technology and recruit top researchers to develop new diagnostic tools and targeted treatments for cardiometabolic diseases.
Minister of Defense Dr Ng Eng Henthe gala’s guest of honor, said of Duke-NUS’ journey and impact:
“As in 2005, when Duke-NUS was born, I have the same confidence that Duke-NUS will achieve even greater things in the future. Your faculty and staff will continue to be pioneers in many areas of medicine and public health. Your students and graduates will excel, distinguishing themselves through their talents and passion. Your doctors will add health and wealth to the lives of Singaporeans and the region as a whole.
M.S. Mavis Khoospeaking on behalf of the estate of Khoo Teck Puat, reflected on the impact of his family’s contributions:
“My late father believed passionately that advances in education, health care and medical research would make a substantial difference in people’s lives Singapore and all over the world. We are very proud of Duke-NUS’ achievements over the years and are confident that the school will continue to innovate in the treatment of diseases, benefiting current and future generations.
The School also received a pledge of 20 million US dollars (approximately S$27.4 million) to advance cutting-edge translational genomics research over the next two to three years, with local and international partners.
Other significant contributions include support from the HEAD Foundation 200,000 Singapore dollars scholarship, which will support medical students with funds that can be used to cover tuition and living expenses, further highlighting Duke-NUS’ dedication to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals.
M Lim Yu Bookdirector of the HEAD Foundation, shared the foundation’s vision for the scholarship:
“The HEAD Foundation Scholarship aims to provide meaningful support to Duke-NUS students, fueling their journey to becoming influential healthcare professionals. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Duke-NUS, this scholarship highlights our commitment to fostering a new generation of doctors dedicated to transformation. patient care and community health.
Mr. Goh Yew LinChairman of the Board of Trustees of Duke-NUS, reflected on the school’s journey and its bright future:
“From its inception, Duke-NUS has been seen as a beacon of medical excellence and innovation. Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, like the Khoo Teck Puat Estate and many others, we were able to make this vision a reality. These generous contributions not only strengthen our continued leadership in biomedical sciences, but also ensure that we remain at the forefront of medical education and research. »
Teacher Thomas Coffmanndean of Duke-NUS, added:
“The generous gifts from our donors underscore our community’s trust and commitment to advancing human health. These funds will significantly enhance our research capabilities, enabling our researchers to make landmark discoveries that can lead to better outcomes for patients around the world, while continuing to provide high-level medical education.
The fundraiser celebrated and strategically advanced Duke-NUS’ initiatives in medical education and research. Highlighting the School’s innovative approach, the evening included an engaging segment with TwoSet Violin, blending art and discourse on medical science.
As Duke-NUS plans for many more decades of excellence and innovation, the continued support of philanthropists and our community will be crucial in propelling the next wave of medical breakthroughs and educational advancements.
About Duke-NUS Medical School
Duke-NUS is that of Singapore flagship graduate medical school, established in 2005 through a government-led strategic partnership between two world-class institutions: Duke University the School of Medicine and the National University of Singapore (NUS). Through an innovative curriculum, Duke-NUS students are trained to become multi-faceted “clinicians plus” ready to lead the healthcare and biomedical ecosystem in Singapore and beyond. A leader in groundbreaking research and translational innovation, Duke-NUS has achieved international recognition through its five flagship research programs and ten centers. The lasting impact of its discoveries is amplified by its successful partnership in academic medicine with Singapore Health Services (SingHealth), that of Singapore largest healthcare group. This strategic alliance has led to the creation of 15 academic clinical programs, which leverage multidisciplinary research and education to transform medicine and improve lives.
For more information, please visit www.duke-nus.edu.sg
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SOURCE Duke-NUS Medical School
