KelasMateMatika programme helps parents and children build a strong foundation for numeracy skills before Primary 1
Over the past five years, more than 10,000 parents and children from the Malay/Muslim community in Singapore have benefited from the KelasMateMatika (KMM) programme, which prepares children aged four to six for Primary 1, with a particular focus on mathematics. Piloted in 2018 by Mendaki, a community self-help group, the programme not only helps children build foundational numeracy skills but also empowers parents to support their children’s learning by teaching them essential skills and boosting their confidence in guiding their children through early education.
A 2022 study by Mendaki’s Programme Evaluation Office revealed that 80% of children who participated in KMM did not require additional learning support in Primary 1, particularly in subjects like mathematics and English. The programme’s success is reflected in the positive outcomes for many families, with children entering Primary 1 without the need for extra assistance in these subjects.
Khairunisa Salim, a housewife, and her husband Muhammad Nassier enrolled their eldest son in KMM in February 2023 after receiving information about the programme. Khairunisa shared that the programme provided them with the opportunity to learn how to teach their son the basics of numeracy, making them better prepared for schoolwork-related questions. Her son is now a Primary 1 pupil and does not require learning support. The couple plans to enroll their younger son when he turns four.
The KMM programme is part of a broader effort by Mendaki to support the Malay/Muslim community, which also includes various other initiatives aimed at enhancing employment opportunities and personal development. More than 1,000 professionals are actively involved in volunteering and mentoring initiatives through Mendaki and its M3 collaboration, benefiting thousands in the community.
In addition, Mendaki’s partnership with NTUC has provided over 15,000 individuals with training and job placement support, while its Women@Work programme has helped about 500 women from the community gain competitive skills and secure meaningful employment. These initiatives aim to promote lifelong career growth and resilience, especially in an ever-changing economy.
