70% Singaporeans would consider using used textbooks amid rising cost of living

SINGAPORE: A recent survey conducted by the NTUC FairPrice Co-operative has found that a significant majority of Singaporeans, faced with rising textbook prices and financial constraints, are willing to consider using old textbooks.

The survey involved 283 respondents; 67 per cent identified as parents and 33 per cent as students. The aim was to gain insights into how residents are coping with the escalating costs of education and to explore potential solutions.

According to the survey results, a striking 70 per cent of respondents expressed their willingness to use old textbooks as a means of alleviating the financial burden associated with education. Nearly 60 per cent of the participants hope that using old textbooks can help them save approximately $100 to $300 annually, significantly relieving their financial stress.

This cost-cutting measure is seen as a practical solution to reduce the overall expenses of education. In addition to old textbooks, respondents expressed the need for access to other educational materials, including exercise books, study guides, and old exam papers.

In response to these findings, NTUC FairPrice has announced plans to launch a textbook-sharing program. The co-operative will partner with the charity organization =DREAMS to collect used textbooks donated by the public. 177 collection points, including NTUC FairPrice supermarkets, will be established across the island for the donation drive.

The donation drive will run until Nov 30, 2023, providing a window of opportunity for the public to contribute old textbooks and other educational materials. The collected materials will be distributed to families in need, furthering the cause of accessible and affordable education in Singapore.

This initiative not only encourages the recycling of textbooks but also promotes a sense of community involvement in supporting education and addressing the challenges faced by those experiencing financial constraints.