CCAs of NTU 25’: WSC RSP Deaf Community (DC)
Written by: Wee Jia Xin, Portfolio Representative
Have you ever seen a song performed using only hands? Every year, our members gather not to sing, but to sign. Christmas Song Sign (CSS), the heartwarming annual tradition of WSC RSPDC, where we bring the magic of music to the Deaf community and raise Deaf awareness through the beauty of sign language.
Who We Are & What’s Our Purpose
RSPDC is a regular service project under NTU Welfare Services Club (WSC) dedicated to bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing communities in Singapore. We believe that every voice deserves to be heard, whether through spoken words, signing, or mutual understanding.
Our club is for anyone who has a heart for service, a willingness to learn, and a desire to create meaningful impact. You don’t need to know Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) when you first join—most of us didn’t either! We learn SgSL from an instructor certified by SADeaf.
Through weekly tuition conducted at four centres across Singapore for Deaf/HoH students from primary school to ITE levels. We aim to support Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (HoH) students in their academic journey while building bonds. Regular events with Deaf adults offer interactions with the Deaf, aiming to bond with them and learn more about the Deaf community through meaningful interactions.
What We Do: Serving with Hands and Heart
My journey with RSPDC began with a mix of familiarity and novelty. Having been part of a sign language CCA before, I thought I knew what to expect. I wasn’t too worried when I was assigned my tutee. However, I quickly faced a “language barrier” – how fast Deaf people would sign. “Again” became my favourite sign, and her’s “nevermind”. But every tutoring session, I felt my confidence and our chemistry grow. That’s when I learned advocating for the Deaf community wasn’t just about learning signs—it was about learning how to communicate simple things like conjunctions and fractions. Nowadays, I rarely see the sign “nevermind”.
Beyond tuition, we have a rich calendar of events:
Induction Day to welcome new volunteers
Bonding Day and Tutor-Tutee activities to strengthen friendships
Centre Enrichment sessions and Children’s Day celebrations to bring joy to our tutees
Volunteer Orientation Programme (VOP) for new members
Events for Deaf adults to bond with them and broaden our understanding of the Deaf community
And of course, Christmas Song Sign (CSS) is our annual highlight, where volunteers interpret Christmas songs through sign language in a public performance—an unforgettable experience for both performers and audience.
The Community: More Than Just Volunteering
RSPDC isn’t just about service—it’s about community. From casual outings to late-night sign practice to cheering each other on during performances, we’ve built a space where everyone belongs. Our batches are tight-knit, supportive, and always ready to lend a hand (pun intended!).
Even outside of sessions, you’ll find us at study groups, food hunts, or just random catch-ups. The friendships you’ll forge and the lessons you learn—about empathy, resilience, and communication—will stay with you long after you graduate.
How to Join Us
Joining RSPDC is simple: come with an open heart and a willingness to learn. No prior sign language experience is required.
Look for us during Welcome Week under NTU Welfare Services Club (WSC): you’ll find our booth on campus—drop by and chat with our friendly volunteers, we’ll share a few signs, and see what makes this community so special.
The expected commitment involves weekly tuition sessions and events every few months. It’s a manageable and fulfilling way to give back while growing personally and socially.
One Last Sign: Why RSPDC?
If there’s one thing to take away about RSPDC, it’s this: words are only half the story.
In RSPDC, you’ll gain not just a new language, but a new lens to see the world—one where kindness, patience, and understanding take centre stage.
Whether you’re looking for a meaningful way to serve, new friendships, or a chance to grow beyond your comfort zone, RSPDC welcomes you.
We’ll be at Welcome Week! Come drop by our booth and let’s start this journey together!
Other Information:
For enquiries, contact: Wee Jia Xin, Portfolio Representative | wsc-rspdc@e.ntu.edu.sg
For more information visit: https://www.instagram.com/ntuwsc_rspdc?igsh=MWl1ODN0ZmNyZjB4Mw==
