Start of Second Semester (14 Jan 2008)

Not withstanding the fact I got news of the demise of my grandma in Singapore in the early morning, I made my way with a heavy heart to campus for the start of my second semester. It took my mind away from the news as I sat in class and learned more about my modules this semester.

After all the technical basics last semester, this semester comprises of my specialised modules, like Regulations & Managements, Drinking Water Safety plans and industrial project, not to mention my dissertation project. It is very interesting to attend Regulations & management I, which covers legal regulatory framework and management of water utilities. We will learn about the legal aspect and legal guidelines in ensuring that water quality and other important criterias are met by water utilities. I think this applies whether the industry is privatised (like in the UK) or not.

I am amazed by the amount of reading I will have to do, alot of it on directives and such. This is a totally new area for me. I have limited knowledge on the regulatory and water quality monitoring measures in Singapore, much less the rest of the world. There will be loads to write. In Singapore, our water quality monitoring and auditing are robust, reliable and sustainable, but our regulatory framework are still beign developed.

I have got 5 classmates in the course this semester and I am certainly glad that there are interest in this course, which there should be, as regulations and management of utilities is neccessary for every country to ensure we have a sustainable, reliable supply of drinking water and waste water services. Quite a varied bunch from Rwanda, Iceland, Vietnam, Korea and UK. The small group also allows for more discussions too.

I got my results from Mr Brian Clarks, our course director. I am quite surprised to learn that my average aggregate is 76.5%! Never in my whole student life have I achieved such good result! Brian is really pleased with my results and congratulated me, commenting that if I continue to do well this semester and for my project dissertation, I could graduate with distinction! Man, that is very good news. Brian also thinks that I could go on for a PhD, perhaps a collaborative PhD, where I could work in Singapore and return to UK a few times a year. That is indeed very good news.

I know that it is God's will for me to come over with my family for my studies, and It is by His grace that our family is here with lots of help from everyone, and that I managed to get reasonably well results, despite the difficulties we faced (nobody really knows and I don't think I want to comment here). I don't know what the future will, whether I will go on for a PhD or return to work in UK or anywhere in the world, but I know it can only be good for me and my family. I certainly pray that I could be back in Singapore, as we missed our family and friends.

All I ask of you is to keep us in your prayer.