Beyond Beliefs (Institute of Policy Studies)

Discover, Navigate and Appreciate Religious Sensitivities in Singapore

This workshop is part of the Institute of Policy Studies Programme on Race, Religion and Intergroup Cohesion (IPS RRIC), designed to deepen mutual understanding across different cultures and faiths through gamified activities and facilitated discussions. Participants will explore insights into various religions and build meaningful connections across differences. Built on IPS’ own research, the workshop offers interactive, hands-on learning experiences that help students develop empathy, curiosity, and confidence in engaging respectfully with diverse beliefs and practices. Through a combination of games and exchanges, the programme encourages students to reflect on their own identities while also discovering shared human values that connect different faiths.

Details

The workshop consists of the following segments:

1. Religious Literacy Quiz: This segment features a dynamic and fast-paced quiz to enhance students’ knowledge of various religions. Through interactive gameplay, participants foster greater awareness and understanding of different faiths in an engaging and accessible format.

2. Culture Box Activity: This facilitated segment invites participants to bring and share an item that holds personal significance from their religion or culture. Each participant will have the opportunity to explain the meaning behind their item—such as why it matters to them and how it connects to their identity or lived experience. Through facilitated dialogue, they are encouraged to engage with one another’s stories, ask questions, and reflect on shared values and differences in a safe and inclusive space.

3. Values U Know Card Game: This segment features an interactive card game that invites students to explore values drawn from various religious traditions. Through meaningful discussion and personal reflection, students engage with diverse perspectives in a thoughtful and accessible format.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Become aware of personal biases and how they may influence perceptions of others.

• Develop empathy towards individuals from different religious and cultural backgrounds.

• Identify various forms of religious sensitivities and understand their social and emotional impact.

• Build the skills to navigate unfamiliar or uncomfortable situations in a culturally sensitive and non-prejudicial manner.

• Cultivate a deeper appreciation for religious differences while recognising shared human values and commonalities.

Target Audience: Secondary 1- 4/5, Post-Secondary (JC/Poly/ITE)

Runtime: All year round

Fee: Please email for more details

Modality: In-person

Duration of Session: 2 hours

Programme Capacity: Maximum of 25pax

Relevant Commemorative Days: Racial Harmony Day

Website: https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/ips/rric/about-rric/ ↗ (opens in new tab)

Mode of Registration: By email

Due Date for Registration: 1 month in advance

Participants playing the Values U Know Card Game

Participants exploring religious spaces through immersive virtual reality