ITE and IBM Singapore Pte Ltd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that would see the provision of IBM software, product training and certifications, and industry attachment opportunities to ITE. The three-year collaboration, valued at an estimated $1 million, aimed to enhance the training of Electronics & Info-Communications Technology staff and students across all three ITE Colleges.

Inked on 18 November 2009, the MOU also encompassed the setting up of an ITE-IBM Centre of Technology for Software Solutions and Systems Delivery at ITE College Central. The Centre will house the latest IBM systems and application software, and provide professional technical expertise for training in Information Technology, Info-Communications Technology and Information System Quality in ITE.

In addition, the collaboration will pave the way for ITE and IBM to work on industry projects together, as well as jointly promote Software Solutions and Systems Delivery technologies that include open technology standards like Java, XML, Eclipse, Jazz and EGL in the software engineering and development industry.

Enhanced Industry-based Learning
Mr Bruce Poh, Director & CEO, ITE, said that the collaboration “goes well with ITE’s emphasis on developing our staff and student capabilities to industry benchmarks and standards. By acquiring relevant industry certifications, ITE students will have an edge in the marketplace.”

Ms Teresa Lim, Managing Director, IBM Singapore, added: “The ITE-IBM Centre of Technology for Software Solutions and Systems Delivery will enhance industry-based learning for ITE students, enabling them to become skilled professionals in these areas.”