NE Commemorative Days

National Education (NE) Commemorative Days are linked to defining moments in Singapore’s history. Schools can customise learning activities and follow up with programmes to create holistic learning experiences for our students.

17 February 2025 (15 Feb is not a school day) - Total Defence Day (TDD)

Theme: Together We Keep Singapore Strong

Schools commemorate Total Defence Day on 15 February each year to mark the fall of Singapore to the Japanese in 1942. In commemorating TDD, our students reflect on the importance of Total Defence as Singapore’s best all-round response to threats and challenges that confront Singapore(e.g. terrorism, pandemics,cyber-attacks, influence campaigns or economic crises). Students also reflect on the continuing relevance of the six pillars of Total Defence - Military Defence, Civil Defence, Economic Defence, Social Defence, Digital Defence and Psychological Defence - as well as the core message of every Singaporean standing together, each playing our part to protect Singapore and our shared way of life.

11 April 2025 - International Friendship Day (IFD)

Theme: Forging friendships in a Complex World

Schools commemorate International Friendship Day on the 3rd Friday of Term 2. This is a day dedicated to the understanding of Singapore’s relations with neighbouring countries and beyond. The commemoration of IFD allows our students to be sensitised to Singapore’s geopolitical realities, and to reflect on the importance of

an active foreign policy to maintain Singapore’s international space;
openness to the international flow of trade, ideas and talent;
cross-cultural skills and a global orientation; and
the spirit of friendship and collaboration amongst different people.

21 July 2025 - Racial Harmony Day (RHD)

Theme: Our People, Our Tapestry

Schools commemorate Racial Harmony Day (RHD) on 21 July each year to mark the anniversary of the 1964 race riots. On this day, students reflect on and celebrate Singapore as a harmonious society built on a rich diversity of cultures and the collaborative effort of all to promote social cohesion.

9 August - National Day (ND)

Theme: to be confirmed closer to the date

*Schools to commemorate National Day on 8 August

National Day marks our separation from Malaysia in 1965, and our emergence as an independent country in a community of nations. The school-based commemoration brings to students a sense of the historical importance and solemnity of National Day.