Simran Singh wins IPENZ Scholarship
IPENZ WAIKATO BOP BRANCH SCHOLARSHIP AWARD 2011
• This annual Scholarship is open to applicants who enrol at the University of Waikato for their first year of study towards the Bachelor of Engineering (BE) degree in the School of Science and Engineering in the year of tenure
• The Selection Panel is directed to give preference to candidates of high academic calibre who will be expected to achieve at a high level in the engineering profession through qualities of integrity, competence, kindness, generosity, and leadership within the wider community allied to a strong commitment to the field of engineering.
At the June 2011 IPENZ Waikato BOP Branch meeting the Chairman Barry Dowsett presented the Branch Scholarship Awards for first year Batchelor of Engineering Students studying at our own Waikato University Engineering School. The judges reported that the selection this year was particularly difficult and complemented all participants upon their dedication to their studies and wished them every success in their careers.
Simran Singh, Korumatua resident and ex Hamilton Boys’ High School student, was selected by the panel. Simran is a member of a family that trace their New Zealand ancestry into the early twentieth century as Wanganui farmers and railway workers; and today his family are well known orchid growers and exporters. Simran’s parents, Shinder and Jaswinder, and his sister, Harsharn, were Branch guests on the night and proudly announced that Simran is of the first generation in the family to have the opportunity to attend university. His sister is also a student at our university, having completed a law degree and Bar registration; currently she is completing a BMS majoring in economics.
The reference from Susan Hassall Headmaster of Hamilton Boys’ High School states that “Simran is an autonomous learner who has maintained an excellent academic record”. The reference alludes to an impressive academic record of the highest standard, which is confirmed by NCEA results and reinforced by Cambridge International Examinations, which endorsed Excellence, and awarded him Academic Honours. Although Simran has displayed academic excellence, perseverance and discipline in study, it has been across the board in all topics, including languages, as well as in his services to the school. Ms Hassall noted that in his role as a School Prefect, “Simran has displayed the characteristics that define him: empathy, consideration and sensitivity. He has been a wonderful role model and support person for the International Students and has worked tirelessly for the Service Committee. He has the respect of his fellow students and ably takes a leadership role.”
He told us that during an ESITO course he took up last year he valued the real world practical application of his academic studies but above that the high service commitment to the community that is the key foundation of the engineering profession. He is looking forward to becoming affiliated with Engineers Without Borders and being involved in serving people in the Pacific.
In congratulating and presenting the award to Simran, the Chairman said that it is a part of being members of the engineering profession, for Branch members to provide Simran and his fellow students with support as they progress towards being Professional Engineers. We look forward to having such an accomplished and respected student within and supported by our engineering community in the Waikato and BOP.