Response to The Straits Times Forum Letter on "Call-up blues"

I refer to Mr Sylvester Lim's letter "Call-up blues" (ST, 14 Sep 09), on the call-up of NSmen who are pursuing full-time studies in institutions such as SIM.
 
To maintain the operational readiness of Army units, the SAF requires Operationally Ready National Servicemen (NSmen) from the same unit to attend In-Camp Training (ICT) together. Hence, it is not possible for the unit to accommodate the different schedules of each of their NSmen when scheduling ICT.
 
However, MINDEF understands that our NSmen have to balance their work, academic and other commitments with their ICT obligations. Most of the NSmen studying in the three local universities (NUS, NTU, SMU) are scheduled for ICT call-ups during their academic vacation period. This arrangement is made possible because these universities have a common vacation period, and the majority of our NSmen study in these institutions. NSmen who are pursuing full-time studies in other educational institutions can apply for deferment from their ICT as per the normal deferment process.
Colonel Darius Lim
Director, Public Affairs
Ministry of Defence
 
MINDEF's reply was published as "Why these students get common call-up", The Straits Times, 22 Sep 09