A wave of excitement filled the air on July 5th as Primary 5 students had the special chance to attend the National Education (NE) Show, which is essentially a big rehearsal for the upcoming National Day Parade (NDP) in 2025. This event brought together a large crowd of over 27,000 people, mostly young students, all gathered at the Padang. For many, it was their very first time getting to experience the NDP up close, even if it was just a practice run.
Eleven-year-old Reha has mentioned how it was “very exciting” to be there and see everything happening.
Another student, Xavier Heng, also felt quite special about the experience. He shared that he was “truly honoured” to be able to attend the NE Show, pointing out that it was his “first time at the NDP.”
The show itself was quite a spectacle, giving the students a nearly full taste of what the actual parade would be like. It featured impressive displays of fighter jets roaring across the sky, lively music performances that got everyone in the spirit, and a significant portion of the dazzling fireworks display. It was designed to give them a real feel for the main event.
The event also encouraged the students to think about their hopes for Singapore’s future. They shared thoughts on various topics, such as wanting to see improvements in the environment and hoping for the nation’s continued independence. This aspect highlighted that the NE Show is not just about entertainment but also about fostering a sense of national identity and responsibility.
Pollyanna Tang, who was a chaperone from Lighthouse School, spoke about how meaningful this experience was for her students. She emphasized that it was a “special experience” for them, showing the impact of the event beyond just the general school population.
This year’s NDP, including its rehearsals like the NE Show, is being directed by Boo Junfeng. The main ideas or “theme” behind the parade revolve around unity, resilience, and inclusivity, aiming to bring everyone together.
The show also incorporates important parts of the National Anthem and marks the significant SG60 milestone for Singapore. A notable detail from this year’s NDP rehearsals is that for the first time, a Full-Time National Serviceman did not stand in for the President. Instead, Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad took on the role of Reviewing Officer for the show.
