Never believe what you have observed on the surface. Always question and wonder about things because there is always more to the story. Another would be the lack of understanding because of the unfamiliarity with how things work. The same concept applies to the effects of poverty in Singapore.
You might be in awe of the marvellous infrastructure and business progress in the country. However, not everyone knows the detrimental consequences of poverty and modern-day education inequality. Some people in the country have limited access to resources to help them get ahead.
Let us shed light on the ever serious problem of living in poverty. Have some empathy, and put yourself in the shoes of those who have less.
POVERTY IN SINGAPORE
On the surface and the evident advancement in Singapore, you might not even think there are issues like these. Their global competitiveness also makes you question the presence of educational inequality in the country. However, despite these positive societal traits, there is an underlying issue that most of us do not know.
As a sociological expert, my goal is to persuade people about pressing issues. I would also explain the consequences for those who pride themselves on their ignorance towards the real-life struggles of people who have less.
Be empathetic, and do your part in eradicating the effects of poverty in the country. Here are some facts you should know.
FACT #1: SINGAPORE IS AN EXPENSIVE CITY
Singapore is a beautiful city. You would see marvellous infrastructure, shopping options for those who have money to spare, and a variety of activities for people who want to enjoy their lives to the fullest. While these are indications of the economic progress of people, there is another side of the story.
Living in poverty means having fewer resources than other people. Imagine spending just 5$ a day in an expensive city. As a person with a stable income and comfortable life, I'm sure you have no idea about what to buy. Those people also struggle to eat enough because of their limited financial means. It is one of the harsh realities in the country: some people struggle to stretch their little money throughout the day.
FACT #2: INCREASING PRICES OF GOODS
The ideal scenario would be the direct proportion between salary and prices of goods. In this case, there are no challenges because your source of income matches your basic demands in life. However, people living in poverty operate on limited financial means that hinders them from getting everyday goods.
As mentioned earlier, some Singaporeans live with only 5$ a day to spare. Imagine having that amount in a country where prices are constantly increasing. These people get left behind, while some are fortunate enough to adapt and survive. The effects of poverty are baffling when you think about it.
FACT #3: NO INCOME
In the worst cases, some households have zero income due to personal matters. A survey from one government agency states that one-third of Singaporeans are under this condition. They are mostly families living in one or two-bedroom flats.
If you think living in poverty with just 5$ is already harsh, think of those who have no income at all. Not only that, the limited financial means prevent them from getting their basic needs or even surviving. This whole issue stretches further than the idea of earning less than what they deserve.
FACT #4: ONE OF THE WIDEST WEALTH GAPS
Observing the people in the financial district, you would see adult men wearing expensive suits and women carrying the latest designer handbag that costs thousands of dollars. Some even drive the newest automobiles with a price tag that can feed an entire household for a year.
While if you explore the other side of the story, people try to live and survive given their limited financial means. They are also scrambling for food while the other half in the city is not guilty when throwing away food waste. A wide gap is one of the effects of poverty: either people are insanely rich with money to spare or extremely poor with no hopes at all.
FACT #5: INEQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY
What does opportunity have to do with living in poverty? Suppose two interviewees are in a multinational company in Singapore. One candidate has an impressive background and a connection with the stakeholders. While the other had to go through the entire process to get an interview appointment.
One of the effects of poverty is unequal opportunity. People who have more money and resources get ahead while people - who might be more capable - need to prove themselves worthy before getting recognised. It is a cycle that involves power, income, and the overall wealth gap in the country.
You are now aware of the educational inequality and effects of poverty in the country. Make a change and improve society. Contact The Best Of You to learn more.
