Over the past weeks our local papers have published articles about Africans in Singapore..and I being an undergraduate pursuing social psychology have decided to understand the current situation of the Africans in Singapore.
We may have read or heard about the violence and killings in various African states as Humans we empathise with our African brothers...hence we understand why many decide to migrate..but have you ever wondered why Singapore and what chance they have?
An article from the Straits Times March 8, 2008 (Saturday Special Report) informs us that many Africans leave their Sub-Saharan Africa to find their Dream, Since the Soccer league in Singapore opened their trials to foreign players as well; many Africans who have the passion,flare and the skill for the game are trying their best to enter local clubs.On the other hand some other Africans who end up in the pavements and the streets of Singapore have been dupped by conmen African job agents who promised them of securing well-paying jobs in Singapore. According to one African National Pastor cum photographer who resides in Singapore believes that there are about 3000 Africans in Singapore.
According to one African Mr Osibayo 33, believes that "there are no jobs for blacks here" and pleads Singaporeans to "Go easy on us, guys". When interviewed many Africans feel marginalized in Singapore due to their skin colour one even mentioned that "I know my skin colour is different but am i not a human being too?" Therefore Singaporeans both the citizens and the government should review their policies and give these men a chance to see what do they have to offer Singaporeans.
It cannot be denied that many Singaporeans are bias to them because of the recent increase in lottery scams that some Singaporeans have lost their life savings and many Singaporeans feel "small" to their large strong physique and as a result may be afraid to employ them.As Singaporeans I feel that it is important to think! Just because of some bad apples should we obstracize all Africans? Should one's schema of a group of African con- men preying on wealthy individuals cause us to develop outgroup homogeneity effect to all Blacks? One should understand that there are a few Africans who find themseves decent jobs in Singapore and even marry local ladies and live harmoniously as Singaporeans...making Singapore more diversified...
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1 comment:
In Singapore, our population is mostly made out of chinese, indian and malay citizens. We hardly encounter Africans and so we may be prejudiced against them. On the other hand, if Singaporeans are often exposed to Africans (mere exposure effct), we may have more positive attitudes towards the Africans.
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