The Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) has recently partnered with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star) to establish tripartite relationships with local enterprises to spur on industry innovation, build up a talent pipeline, and enhance transfer of tech know-how.
With the partnership in place, A*Star researchers will be put on secondment to companies, allowing them to offer their technical expertise and mentoring SIT interns during their work-study programme.
“In this current climate of economic disruption, such collaborations are even more crucial to help companies identify technology and skill gaps, as well as enable them to pivot to new markets or explore innovation of new products and services,” said Professor Tan Sze Wee, A*Star Assistant Chief Executive of Enterprise.
Local enterprises and SMEs were also urged on by the Second Minister for Trade and Industry, Dr Tan See Leng, to embrace science and technology as a crucial competitive advantage in the global economy.
“To sail forward amidst the winds of change, SMEs must adapt, pivot and transform to thrive in the new environment,” he said.
SIT also inked a deal with the Professional Engineers Board (PEB) to strengthen the continuing education and training framework for aspiring engineers. Both parties will jointly develop the Fundamentals of Engineering Examination, a requirement for registration as a professional engineer.
In addition to this, SIT’s partnership with the DSO National Laboratories (DSO), is set to have both parties develop a joint laboratory at SIT@Dover in early 2021. The aim of this new lab is to spearhead applied research efforts for potential defence and commercial use.
