International Friendship Day 2026
Explore how students marked International Friendship Day 2026 through songs, skits, and cultural exchanges that deepened ties with Southeast Asian neighbours.
Commemoration of International Friendship Day 2026
7 April 2026
Schools in Singapore commemorate International Friendship Day (IFD) on the third Friday of Term 2 each year. This special day helps students learn about Singapore’s connections with our neighbours. The theme from 2025 to 2027, “Singapore: Forging Friendships in a Complex World”, reminds us that strong friendships and cross-cultural understanding remain important in a fast-changing global landscape.
Through engaging activities and meaningful discussions, our students explored the diverse traditions and lifestyles of people across ASEAN. By deepening their appreciation of different cultures, they are better equipped to build lasting friendships and contribute to a more connected and caring world.
The focus of our IFD recess activity this year was on songs from some of our Southeast Asian neighbours. Students revisited familiar tunes such as Burung Kakak Tua, 细水长流 (xì shuǐ cháng liú), and Hello to All the Children of the World, while also learning new songs like Alouette and Epo I Ta Tai E. Prior to the activity, students were encouraged to log in to the Student Learning Space (SLS) to listen to audio clips and practise the songs.
Over two days, booths were set up at the parade square, where students took part in a “Don’t Forget the Lyrics”-style challenge during their extended recess. Our parent volunteers played an active role in creating a lively atmosphere, encouraging participation and even leading small group sing-alongs. It was heartening to see students eagerly queuing up to take part. Those who completed the challenge successfully received tokens and an exclusive IFD sticker featuring the school’s girl mascots.
During the morning assembly programme, selected Primary 2 pupils performed Hello to All the Children of the World, reminding everyone that a simple greeting and smile can bridge cultures. Our STAR CCA members also presented a skit about a teacher from overseas adapting to life here, highlighting humorous misunderstandings in pronunciation of his students’ names, food ordering, and dining etiquette.
We were also privileged to host students and staff from Taipei Wenhua Elementary School during the week. The programme concluded with a short presentation by our guests, including a captivating violin performance. They also shared about Beitou, Taipei, offering insights into their hometown and warmly inviting our students to visit in the future.
