PSA and Singapore Polytechnic to Enhance Port Industry Education and Training

PSA Corporation Limited (PSA) and Singapore Polytechnic (SP) are working together to develop a Specialist Diploma in Port Management and Operations, a 12-month work-study Earn and Learn Program (ELP) under the national SkillsFuture initiative.

The ELP will be launched in June 2016, and is the first of its kind specifically designed for the Singapore port industry. The ELP will provide fresh polytechnic graduates with a head start in maritime careers relevant to their course of study. They will benefit from full-time employment, a structured learning framework and career advancement pathways. Eligible PSA staff can also enroll in the ELP to deepen their skills and attain industry-recognized certification.

The ELP collaboration is a key component of a five-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed today by PSA and SP worth more than S$1.5 million. Both organizations will enhance cooperation in the disciplines of Engineering, Information Technology, and Maritime Business which aims to equip future port professionals with work-ready knowledge and skills through comprehensive, hands-on training.

“PSA aims to enhance Singapore’s status as a global hub port with the expansion of Pair Penang Terminals and eventually the development of Teas megaport. The use of more automated, intelligent and sustainable technologies at these terminals requires a core of specialists with industry-relevant competencies. This collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic will help their staff and students bridge what is taught in the classroom and how it can be applied in the workplace, and strengthen our pipeline of potential future talent for PSA’s business expansion,” said Mr. Ong Kim Pong, Regional CEO Southeast Asia, and PSA International.

Mr. Tan Choon Shian, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Polytechnic said, “Our collaboration with PSA reflects our commitment to help deepen the skills and knowledge of our workforce so that they can remain relevant and further strengthen the maritime sector. This in turn will contribute to the continued success of Singapore.” 2

Another key thrust in joint curriculum development is to design a Port Equipment elective in SP’s Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Technology). This will be particularly useful as the port introduces more intelligent and automated systems.

As part of efforts to boost capability development and knowledge sharing, specialists from PSA will be invited to deliver guest lectures to SP staff and students on the latest developments in port operations and technology.

To help enhance the students’ awareness of the port industry and the excellent career prospects it offers, PSA will also be offering scholarships and book prizes to outstanding students from specific courses, and jointly organize “PSA Challenge” competitions for engineering students to apply what they have learnt to scenarios in port operations and technology.