ALTHOUGH there is no foolproof method to select potential scholarship holders, there needs to be a careful discussion on how local selection panels may sharpen their skills and ask questions to further probe candidates ("No foolproof method to awarding scholarships" by Mr Ling Ming Hui; April 9).
Selection panels should never be satisfied with young candidates' first responses.
Mr Heng Cho Choon ("Ensure scholarship holders are made of sterner stuff"; April 8) has singled out the late Dr Phay Seng Whatt, the former chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC), who was able to select and evaluate people well.
Perhaps selection panels could emulate Dr Phay's style, that is, by keenly observing subtle body language and reactions of candidates when posed with challenging questions.
This requires skill, sensitivity and keen sharpness to evaluate scholarship candidates, and looking beyond the impressive grades, leadership qualities and co-curricular activity contributions of the applicants.
Ada Chan Siew Foen (Ms)
