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IMDA and IBM join hands to train apprentices in AI, blockchain, data analytics

Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and IBM have teamed up to train local apprentices in specialised tech skills such as artificial intelligence (AI), application development, blockchain, and data analytics, robotic process automation (RPA) and SAP.

This initiative will on-board 70 apprentices over two years from 2018 to 2020, and provide structured training for aspiring tech professionals to acquire these specialised tech skills that are in high demand in Singapore.

IBM is the newest partner to join IMDA’s company-led training programme under the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) initiative; and will be rolling out its first ‘New Collar Apprenticeship’ initiative outside of the United States.

IBM Singapore will also employ and train non-degree holders for infocomm technology (ICT) jobs.

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Chief executive of IMDA, Tan Kiat How, commented: "Through our partnership with IBM, aspiring local tech professionals will have another avenue to develop frontier tech skills, and seize exciting career opportunities in Singapore’s digital economy."

Based on IMDA’s survey, enterprises have projected that the demand for infocomm professionals will grow by another 42,300 between 2017 to 2019.

Managing director, IBM Singapore, Abraham Thomas, added: "Those that complete their apprenticeships in IBM will not only be equipped with the necessary skills to pursue a career in the technology field, but they will also have the unique advantage of priceless hands-on experience from one of the largest tech companies of the world."

To qualify for an apprenticeship under this initiative, applicants must be Singaporean citizens and preferably graduated with a diploma in infocomm, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) or other related disciplines and have less than five years of working experience post-graduation.

New collar jobs are roles in some of the technology industry's fastest growing fields, from cybersecurity and cloud computing to cognitive business and digital design, which places strong emphasis on mastery of skillsets, and not only based on degree qualifications.

Photo / 123RF

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